The process to file your income-tax returns is accessible in more ways now with the process available to taxpayers online via the official e-filing portal. However, first-time taxpayers may have some confusion over the details. Today we will take a look at the ITR deadline for this tax year.
Notably, all Indian residents are required to file returns to declare their earnings for the year across sources such as salary, profits from business, gains from sale of real estate, capital gains, interest and dividend payments, etc.
How can I file my ITR?
You can file your ITR through a certified professional i.e. a Chartered Accountant or financial planner or do it yourself through the Income-Tax department’s website. In order to file your own returns, you will have to log into the site with your User ID and password. If this is the first time you are filing your tax online, you must register using PAN, Aadhaar and other related details on the website.
Before filing your ITR keep the following documents ready as applicable: Form 16 (from current employer and former employer if you changed jobs mid-year), PAN Card, Aadhaar Card (PAN-Aadhaar must be linked), investment proofs (including bank deposits, PPF deposits, etc.), home loan interest certificate, and insurance premium payment receipts.
What is the deadline for filing I-T returns?
For the current tax year, i.e. financial year 2025-2026 or assessment year 2026-2027, the deadline for individual taxpayers filing ITR is 31 July 2026; while for those using ITR forms 3 and 4, is 31 August 2026.
Notably, taxpayers who miss the July deadline can still file a delayed return by 31 December, for FY25-26 / AY26-27.
What happens if I miss the ITR filing deadline?
If you miss the deadline, taxpayers can still file a delayed ITR till 31 December, but this would cost you upwards of ₹1,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the duration of the delay and your taxable amount.
Also, the more you delay your ITR filing, such returns may lose out on certain deductions for lower tax and would likely be subject to increased scrutiny from the Income Tax Department.
- ITR-2 form: Individual or Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) without business income.
- ITR-3 form: Individual or HUF with income from business or profession.
- ITR-4 form: Taxpayers with presumptive income from business or profession.
Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
