ITR Filing Deadline 2025: Will the Due Date Be Extended Again?
The ITR filing deadline 2025 has become the hottest topic among Indian taxpayers. With millions of people rushing to complete their income tax return (ITR) filing for FY 2024-25, the big question is simple: Will the government extend the due date again this year?
Every year, filing ITR becomes a stressful process. Despite efforts to simplify the income tax portal, technical glitches, server slowdowns, and last-minute rushes make taxpayers anxious. Adding to the chaos in 2025, the window for filing is shorter than usual, festive shopping season overlaps with deadlines, and professionals are overwhelmed. As a result, there is growing pressure on the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to extend the deadline for filing returns.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the ITR filing deadline 2025 – the official dates, reasons for extension demands, penalties for missing deadlines, expert opinions, and what you should do right now.
Current ITR Filing Deadline for FY 2024-25
The official ITR due date 2025 is September 15, 2025, for most taxpayers, including salaried individuals, freelancers, and small businesses whose accounts do not require audit.
For companies and entities requiring audits, the deadline is later–October 31, 2025.
The government had already provided a window earlier in the year, but this final deadline is considered strict unless extended by CBDT.
📌 Key Dates for ITR Filing 2025
Salaried & Non-Audit Taxpayers: September 15, 2025
Audit-Required Taxpayers: October 31, 2025
Belated Return Deadline: December 31, 2025
Salaried & Non-Audit Taxpayers: September 15, 2025
Audit-Required Taxpayers: October 31, 2025
Belated Return Deadline: December 31, 2025
Why Taxpayers Want the ITR Deadline Extended in 2025
There are several reasons why taxpayers, chartered accountants, and trade bodies are requesting the government to extend the ITR filing deadline 2025.
Technical Glitches on the Portal
Many users have reported login issues, failed OTPs, and delays in form validation. Even in 2025, the tax portal still struggles to handle the massive traffic as the deadline nears.Short Filing Window
Compared to previous years, taxpayers feel that the filing window was shorter. Preparations, form availability, and clarifications were delayed, putting pressure on the public.Festive Overlap
The September 15 deadline falls close to Ganesh Chaturthi and festive shopping season, when small businesses are busiest. This adds to their workload.Professional Overload
Chartered accountants (CAs) handle hundreds of filings. With lakhs of returns pending, they are unable to process everything on time.Uncertainty Over Penalties
Taxpayers fear late fees and penalties if they cannot file on time. Hence, they prefer the government to give some breathing space.
Who Is Demanding an ITR Filing Extension?
The push for extending the ITR filing deadline 2025 is not just from individual taxpayers. Multiple stakeholders are joining the demand:
Chartered Accountants & Tax Professionals – They face heavy workload and stress due to short deadlines.
Small Traders & Business Owners – Festive season makes it hard to focus on tax filing.
Industry Associations – Several trade bodies have officially requested CBDT for an extension.
Taxpayers with Complex Incomes – Those with multiple income sources, investments, and capital gains need more time for accurate filing.
The collective demand shows how challenging compliance has become.
Penalties for Missing the ITR Due Date 2025
If you fail to file your return before the ITR filing deadline 2025, you may face the following penalties:
Late Fee under Section 234F
₹5,000 penalty if filed after the due date but before December 31, 2025.
₹10,000 penalty if filed later (for income above ₹5 lakh).
For taxpayers with income below ₹5 lakh, late fee is capped at ₹1,000.
Interest on Tax Payable (Section 234A & 234B)
Interest is charged on unpaid taxes, adding financial burden.Loss of Carry Forward Benefits
If you miss the deadline, you cannot carry forward certain losses (like business losses or capital losses) to future years.
Belated Return: Last Option After the ITR Deadline
If you miss the ITR filing deadline 2025, all hope is not lost. You can still file a belated return.
📌 Belated Return Deadline for FY 2024-25: December 31, 2025
However, a belated return comes with drawbacks:
Mandatory late fee under Section 234F
Higher interest on outstanding tax
Limited benefits compared to filing on time
So, while the belated return is an option, it is always better to file before September 15.
Tips to File Your ITR Before September 15, 2025
To avoid last-minute stress, here are some practical tips to meet the ITR filing deadline 2025:
Collect Documents Early – Form 16, bank statements, TDS certificates, investment proofs.
Use Pre-Filled Data – The income tax portal now provides pre-filled data; review it carefully.
Don’t Wait Till Last Day – Traffic surges and glitches are common on deadline day.
Seek Professional Help – If your income is complex, hire a CA early.
Double Check Details – Incorrect filings may invite notices.
Pay Pending Taxes First – Clear dues to avoid interest.
Will CBDT Extend the ITR Filing Deadline 2025 Again?
This is the question on everyone’s mind. Based on past trends, the government has often extended deadlines due to technical glitches or public pressure. However, CBDT also emphasizes timely compliance.
Arguments in Favor of Extension
Portal issues are still unresolved.
Large-scale requests from taxpayers and professionals.
Overlap with festivals.
Arguments Against Extension
The government wants to enforce stricter compliance.
Extensions reduce discipline among taxpayers.
CBDT claims most returns are filed on time.
As of now, there is no official announcement. But experts suggest that if portal glitches continue, CBDT may extend the ITR due date 2025 by a few weeks.
FAQs on ITR Filing Deadline 2025
1. What is the ITR filing deadline for FY 2024-25?
The current deadline is September 15, 2025, for individuals not requiring audit.
2. Will the ITR filing deadline 2025 be extended?
There are strong demands, but CBDT has not confirmed any extension yet.
3. What happens if I miss the ITR due date 2025?
You can file a belated return by December 31, 2025, but with penalties.
4. What is the penalty for late ITR filing in 2025?
Up to ₹10,000 depending on your income.
5. Can I file ITR after the belated return deadline?
No, after December 31, 2025, you cannot file ITR for FY 2024-25.
Conclusion
The ITR filing deadline 2025 is fast approaching, and uncertainty remains about whether the government will extend it. For now, taxpayers should not wait for an announcement but focus on completing their returns before September 15.
Whether or not an extension is granted, one lesson remains the same: timely compliance is always safer. By filing early, you avoid stress, penalties, and last-minute surprises.
As India’s tax system becomes more digital, the onus is on taxpayers to stay proactive. Keep your documents ready, use the portal efficiently, and consult professionals if needed.
The coming weeks will reveal if CBDT listens to public pressure and grants an extension. Until then, the safest move is clear – file your ITR now and avoid the deadline chaos.
The ITR filing deadline 2025 is not just a date on the calendar, it is a critical financial milestone. Whether the government announces an ITR extension 2025 or not, filing on time helps taxpayers avoid penalties, ensures compliance, and brings peace of mind.
For more details about Income Tax & ITR Filing Deadline 2025, visit Government’s Official Income Tax Portal.
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