Ram Kumar 
The Income Tax Department’s decision to extend the last date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 (assessment year 2025-26) to September 15, 2025, has given taxpayers an additional cushion to complete their filings. The extension was announced in May this year, aiming to provide relief to individuals and businesses struggling with compliance timelines.
Extension Offers Relief to Taxpayers
The original due date for filing was July 31, 2025. However, owing to system load, procedural challenges, and representations from taxpayers and professionals, the government granted a six-week extension. This move was expected to accelerate the pace of return submissions and reduce last-minute rush.
Filing Pace Below Expectations
Despite the extension, official figures indicate that the pace of return filing has not picked up as anticipated. Tax consultants suggest that many taxpayers are adopting a “wait-and-file” approach, delaying submissions until the final days of the deadline. This trend not only strains the IT department’s systems but also increases the risk of errors and penalties for late compliance.
Why Timely Filing Matters
Filing ITR before the deadline is crucial for several reasons:
- Avoiding Late Fees: Missing the due date attracts penalties under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act.
- Smooth Loan Processing: ITR documents are essential for availing loans, visas, and credit approvals.
- Faster Refunds: Early filing ensures quicker processing of refunds.
Experts Urge Early Action
Chartered accountants and tax experts are advising taxpayers not to wait until the September 15 deadline. Filing early allows sufficient time to rectify errors, upload necessary documents, and avoid the stress of overloaded IT systems.
Outlook
With just over a week left until the extended deadline, the tax department is expected to intensify awareness campaigns to encourage timely compliance. Whether this push will lead to a surge in filings remains to be seen, but experts agree that proactive filing is the best way forward.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify official updates from the Income Tax Department or consult a certified tax professional before filing returns.
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