ITR Filing Deadline Nears: Over 6 Crore Returns Filed as September 15 Cut-Off Approaches

As the clock ticks toward September 15, 2025, millions of Indian taxpayers are racing against time to file their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025-26. The extended deadline—originally set for July 31 but shifted to mid-September—was granted to give taxpayers relief after changes in return forms and e-filing utilities required more time for system readiness.

With just hours left, the Income Tax Department has confirmed that over 6 crore returns have already been filed, reflecting both a surge in compliance and the pressure many individuals face to meet the cut-off.

Why the Extension Was Needed

Unlike previous years, the ITR filing process saw significant modifications in the notified forms. These changes required updates to the department’s online filing utilities, prompting the government to extend the due date. Officials stressed that the extension was not merely for convenience but essential to ensure smoother access for both salaried individuals and professionals.

Support Measures for Taxpayers

In anticipation of the last-minute rush, the department has deployed 24×7 support services to help taxpayers avoid errors and technical snags. Assistance is available through:

• Call centers and helplines
• Live chat options on the e-filing portal
• Online WebEx sessions for step-by-step filing guidance
• Social media updates and responses to queries in real time

This proactive approach is aimed at reducing panic and minimizing filing mistakes that often arise in the eleventh hour.

What Taxpayers Need to Do

For those still waiting, here is the checklist before hitting the “submit” button:

1. Select the correct ITR form based on income type—salaried, professional, or business.
2. Choose between the old and new tax regimes, depending on which provides better savings.
3. Link PAN and Aadhaar without delay; failure to do so can invalidate filings.
4. Validate bank account details to ensure timely refunds.
5. Cross-check income with Form 26AS and AIS to prevent mismatches.
6. Keep investment and deduction proofs ready to claim benefits.
7. E-verify the return using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or other approved methods.

What If You Miss the Deadline?

Filing after September 15 does not mean losing the chance to submit, but it comes at a cost.

• Taxpayers can file a belated return until December 31, 2025.
• A penalty of up to ₹5,000 applies if annual income exceeds ₹5 lakh. For incomes below ₹5 lakh, the fine is capped at ₹1,000.
• Late filing may also delay refunds and reduce the scope for certain deductions.

Will the Date Be Extended Again?

Despite speculation, there has been no official communication about any further extension. The department has consistently urged taxpayers to complete the process before the deadline, warning against depending on last-minute relief.

Common Errors to Watch Out For

Every year, many taxpayers run into avoidable issues. The most frequent mistakes include:

• Filing through the wrong ITR form
• Ignoring income reflected in Form 26AS or AIS
• Failing to link Aadhaar and PAN
• Entering incorrect bank account details
• Forgetting to e-verify returns

Tax experts advise double-checking details to avoid notice generation and unwanted scrutiny later.

The Bigger Picture

The surge in ITR filings highlights India’s expanding tax net and growing digital compliance. Yet, the process also reveals the challenges taxpayers face with evolving forms, system updates, and frequent changes in timelines.

With the September 15 deadline imminent, the message from the Income Tax Department is clear: file now, don’t wait. Early filing reduces technical glitches, ensures faster refunds, and saves taxpayers from unnecessary penalties.