The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has once again granted a relaxation in the deadline to file Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 (assessment year 2025-26). Individual taxpayers and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who are not required to audit will now be able to file their returns till 15 September 2025, as opposed to the previous due date of 31 July 2025. However, the time limit for taxpayers whose accounts are subject to audit is still 30 September 2025, and there has been no change.
This extension comes on the back of repeated representations from chartered accountants and professional bodies that expressed concern over the practical difficulties being experienced by taxpayers. There were a number of issues raised this year, one of which was ongoing portal errors, which led to problems logging on and uploading ITRs. Besides, the differences between the Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS about tax credits led to confusion, which meant that many individuals had to spend additional time on identifying and reconciling inconsistencies.
Further delays were caused by the late release of new ITR forms and utilities that reduced the effective filing period. Adding to this burden, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has come out with a new reporting framework that has enhanced compliance requirements. Several professional bodies like the Chandigarh Chartered Accountants Taxation Association (CCATAX) have formally called for giving relief to the CBDT. In light of these issues, the CBDT issued Circular No. 8 of 2024-25 on 27 May 2025, allowing the ITR to be delayed by six weeks.
Tax advisors, however, warn against taxpayers depending on another extension. Non-compliance with the deadline of 15 September 2025 may result in penalties such as late fees levied under Section 234F and interest liabilities levied under Sections 234A, 234B and 234C. In addition, if you file late, you risk losing the ability to carry forward certain losses. While the extension does provide some much-needed breathing room, experts are advising taxpayers to file early to avoid last-minute issues.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates
Click Here for Chhattisgarh News
Click Here for Entertainment News