Synopsis : The government has extended the ITR filing deadline to September 15, 2025, for non-audited taxpayers. From Form 16 to capital gains reports, here’s what you need to ensure a hassle-free filing experience this year.
The deadline to file Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) has been extended to September 15, 2025, for taxpayers whose accounts are not subject to audit. This relief primarily benefits salaried individuals and pensioners, giving them extra time to organise and verify documents needed for accurate and timely filing. However, it’s important to note that this extension doesn’t apply to taxpayers whose accounts require auditing—they must still comply with the original deadline.
With this extension, taxpayers are encouraged to begin gathering the documents necessary for a smooth and error-free filing process. One of the most essential documents is Form 16, which details salary income and tax deducted at source. Interest certificates from banks and financial institutions must also be collected to reflect earnings from savings and fixed deposits. Bank statements help identify any unreported income and are vital for reconciling with Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS), both of which are critical for ensuring your income data matches what the Income Tax Department has on record.
For those with investments in capital markets or mutual funds, it is important to obtain capital gains statements to accurately report short-term and long-term gains, especially in light of changes to the capital gains tax rules that came into effect from July 2024. Taxpayers must now differentiate between gains taxed under old provisions and those falling under the new structure, adding a layer of complexity that demands precise documentation.
Additionally, those who have invested in unlisted equity shares or own foreign assets must ensure full disclosure in the relevant ITR forms, such as ITR-2. Even if your income is below the taxable threshold, foreign holdings and signing authority in overseas accounts must be reported to avoid regulatory trouble.
Taxpayers should also ensure that PAN and Aadhaar are linked, as Aadhaar is now mandatory in the ITR form. All active bank accounts must be declared, irrespective of whether a tax refund is expected, and each entry—especially account numbers and IFSC codes—must be verified for accuracy.
It is equally important to download and verify details from Form 26AS, AIS, and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) to ensure there are no mismatches between reported income and the department’s records. Any discrepancies must be addressed in advance to prevent delays or scrutiny.
While the extended deadline offers breathing room, self-assessment tax must still be paid by July 31, 2025, to avoid interest or penalties. For those who missed filing returns in previous years, the ITR-U form provides an opportunity to file belated returns for up to two years, helping taxpayers stay compliant.
In the backdrop of rising digital transparency, an evolving tax structure, and tighter regulations, filing an accurate ITR is more important than ever. A clear understanding of income sources, tax regimes, and documentation requirements can not only simplify the process but also ensure faster refunds and peace of mind.
Disclaimer : This article is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified tax advisor or financial professional before filing your income tax return.
