ITR Filing Due Dates for Financial Year 2024-2025 (Assessment Year 2025-2026)

Tax season is always a bit daunting, isn’t it? Especially when you’re juggling life, work, and the endless paperwork that comes with filing your Income Tax Return (ITR). To make things a little easier, here’s a straightforward rundown of the ITR filing due dates for FY 2024-2025 (which corresponds to AY 2025-2026). Keeping these dates in mind can help you avoid last-minute rush and penalties.

Understanding the Basics: What Are ITR Filing Due Dates?

Before diving into the dates, a quick refresher: The financial year (FY) runs from April 1st to March 31st. For FY 2024-2025, that means April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. The assessment year (AY), the year after the financial year, is when you actually file your return, explaining the income earned in the FY.

Important Due Dates to Remember

Category of Taxpayer	Due Date for Filing ITR	Penalty/Consequence
Individual/HUF (not requiring audit)	July 31, 2025	Late filing fees and interest may apply
Businesses and professionals (requiring audit)	September 30, 2025	Late fees plus increased scrutiny
Transfer Pricing cases & International transactions	November 30, 2025	Late fees and possible penalties
Companies whose accounts are to be audited	October 31, 2025	Penalties, potential scrutiny
Revised ITR filing	Within one year from the end of the relevant AY, i.e., by March 31, 2027	Only allowed if original return was filed on time

Quick Tip:

If you miss the due date, you can still file a belated return but be ready to pay penalties and interest on any tax dues.

What Happens If I Miss the Due Date?

The Income Tax Department has made it clear — late filing doesn’t come cheap:

Penalty under Section 234F:
- Up to ₹5,000 if filed after due date but before December 31.
- ₹10,000 if filed later (depending on total income, this could be significant).
Interest on outstanding tax liability:
- Interest @1% per month or part of the month on unpaid tax from April 1 of AY to the date of payment.
Loss of certain benefits:
- Losses (except those under house property) can’t be carried forward if ITR is filed late.

Filing ITR Early? Here's Why It Helps!

Honestly, I always try to file my return as soon as all my proofs and statements come in. Here’s why:

Quick refunds: The earlier you file, the faster you get your refunds — no unnecessary delays.
Avoid last-minute stress: Scrambling on the last day is never fun.
Reduce error chances: Gives you room to correct mistakes before the deadline.
Compliance: Makes you look good with the tax authorities (no red flags!).

A Quick Checklist Before Filing ITR

Collect Form 16/16A: From your employer or clients.
Bank statements: For interest income, TDS.
Investment proofs: For claiming deductions under Section 80C, 80D, etc.
Details of other income: Rental income, capital gains, etc.
Pre-fill data: Most portals provide pre-filled info, verify before submitting.
Choose the right ITR form: Based on your income sources.
Use the government portal or trustworthy portals: To file your return online.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the key to smooth tax filing is preparation and punctuality. Keep your documents handy and mark those calendars with the due dates:

July 31, 2025 – Standard return filing date for most individuals
September 30, 2025 – Audit cases and certain taxpayers
November 30, 2025 – Transfer pricing cases and international transactions

Missing these can be costly, so mark your calendars and maybe set reminders on your phone.

If you’re confused about which form to file or what deductions you can claim, don't hesitate to consult a tax advisor. It’s usually a small cost compared to a penalty or interest on late filings.

Useful Resource: For step-by-step guidance or to file your return, the official Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal is the place to go.

Filing taxes may never be “fun,” but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be painful either. Here’s to staying organized and stress-free this tax season!