ITR Filing Last Date for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26)

The income tax return due date for individuals and non-audit cases (such as salaried employees, freelancers, and consultants) is 31st July 2025. This date marks the end of the ITR filing window for the assessment year 2025–26.

Important Points to Note:

• FY 2024–25 refers to income earned between 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025.
• AY 2025–26 is the year when you file the return and pay taxes for that income.
• Taxpayers not requiring audit must file their ITR by 31st July 2025.
• If your accounts need audit, the due date extends to 31st October 2025.
• Belated returns can be filed till 31st December 2025, with a late fee.

Missing the deadline can lead to penalties under Section 234F, interest on tax dues, and loss of certain tax benefits.

It’s best to prepare and file your return well before the ITR last date 2025 to avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth refund process.

When Does ITR Filing Start for FY 2024–25?

Many taxpayers ask — when does ITR filing start for FY 2024–25? 

The ITR filing open date for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) is expected to be in April 2025, right after the financial year ends on 31st March 2025. However, the exact date is officially notified by the Income Tax Department every year — usually in the first or second week of April.

Key Points to Remember:

• ITR filing start date 2025 is expected to be between 1st to 15th April 2025, subject to notification.
• You can start filing once the income tax portal updates the ITR forms for the relevant financial year.
• Salaried individuals can file as soon as they receive Form 16, typically in June or early July.
• Early filing ensures faster processing of income tax refunds.

To stay updated, regularly check the income tax e-filing portal for official announcements. Filing early also gives you enough time to revise your return if needed before the ITR due date of 31st July 2025.

Assessment Year vs. Financial Year Explained

Many taxpayers often get confused between Financial Year (FY) and Assessment Year (AY). Understanding the AY vs FY difference is important for accurate tax filing.

• The Financial Year (FY) is the period during which you earn your income. For example, FY 2024–25 starts on 1st April 2024 and ends on 31st March 2025.
• The Assessment Year (AY) is the year following the financial year, during which the income earned in the FY is assessed and taxed. For instance, income earned in FY 2024–25 will be assessed in AY 2025–26.
   

Understanding the assessment year meaning helps avoid mistakes in the tax filing process. For FY 2024–25, always file your income tax return under AY 2025–26.

Complete List of ITR Due Dates for Different Categories

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) on time is crucial to avoid penalties. The ITR due date list for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) varies based on the taxpayer category. Knowing the ITR filing dates 2025 helps you plan and file correctly.

Here is a quick overview of key due dates:

• 31st July 2025: Last date for filing ITR for individuals, salaried employees, and taxpayers whose accounts do not require audit.
• 30th September 2025: Due date for taxpayers (like businesses and professionals) whose accounts need to be audited.
• 30th November 2025: Due date for transfer pricing cases where a report needs to be submitted.
• 31st December 2025: Last date to file a belated return (filed after the due date but within this extended window). Belated returns attract penalties and interest but still allow you to claim refunds and carry forward losses.
• 31st March 2030: Last date to file an updated return (ITR-U), introduced by the Finance Act 2022, for corrections in already filed returns. (4 years from the end of the relevant Assessment Year)

Make sure to adhere to these ITR due date list deadlines to avoid penalties under sections 234A and 234F. Filing timely ensures smooth processing of refunds and claims.

Penalty for Late Filing of Income Tax Return

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) on or before the due date is essential. If you miss the deadline, you may have to pay a late filing penalty under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act. Here's what you need to know about the ITR late filing penalty for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26):

Key Points on Late Fee for ITR:

• If your total income exceeds ₹5 lakh and you file your ITR after the due date (31st July 2025), a late fee of ₹5,000 is applicable.
• If your income is below ₹5 lakh, the penalty is ₹1,000.
• If your income is below the taxable limit, no penalty is levied.
• Apart from this, you may also be charged interest under Section 234A for delay in tax payment.

Why File On Time?

• You avoid penalties under Section 234F.
• You can carry forward losses (like capital loss or business loss).
• You ensure faster refunds and avoid legal issues.

What Happens if You Miss the ITR Deadline?

Missing the Income Tax Return (ITR) deadline can lead to several complications. If you’ve missed the ITR deadline for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26), here’s what you need to know.

Consequences of Missed ITR Deadline:

• Late filing fee under Section 234F:
  
  • ₹5,000 if income exceeds ₹5 lakh
  • ₹1,000 if income is below ₹5 lakh
• Interest on tax due under Section 234A
• Loss of carry forward benefits: You cannot carry forward losses like capital or business losses unless you file ITR on time.
• Refund delays: Any expected refund gets delayed if return is not filed on time.

Can You File ITR After Due Date?

Yes, you can still file ITR after the due date as a belated return (up to 31st December 2025) or as an updated return (within two years). However, late fees and interest will apply.

To avoid these late filing consequences, it’s always best to file your ITR before the due date. It ensures compliance, avoids penalties, and allows you to claim refunds or carry forward losses without issues.

How to File ITR Online in India: A Step-by-Step Guide

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) has become easier with the e-filing process offered by the Income Tax Department of India. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file ITR online for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26):

Step-by-Step ITR Filing Process:

1. Visit the official e-filing portal: Go to incometax.gov.in.
2. Log in using your PAN (Permanent Account Number) and password. New users must register first.
3. Choose ‘File Income Tax Return’ on the dashboard.
4. Select the relevant assessment year and filing type – individual, HUF, or others.
5. Choose the online or offline mode for filing.
6. Select the correct ITR form (e.g., ITR-1 for salaried individuals).
7. Fill in all necessary details: income, deductions, taxes paid, etc.
8. Validate and preview your return.
9. Submit and verify using Aadhaar OTP, EVC, or DSC.

After successful submission, you’ll receive an ITR-V acknowledgment.

Why File ITR Online?

The efile income tax return method is secure, fast, and ensures quicker refunds. Plus, you avoid paperwork and reduce the chances of errors.

Stay compliant by filing your ITR online before the deadline!

Understanding Section 234A, 234B & 234F – Penalties & Interest Explained

When filing your income tax return, it’s essential to understand the penalty and interest sections under the Income Tax Act. Section 234A, 234B, and 234F deal with different types of penalties and interest that may apply to you.

Section 234A – Interest for Late Filing

If you file ITR after the due date, interest is levied under section 234A. It is charged at 1% per month on the unpaid tax amount, from the due date till the actual date of filing.

Section 234B – Interest for Short or Non-payment of Advance Tax

If you haven't paid at least 90% of your advance tax by the due dates, section 234B applies. It charges 1% interest per month on the unpaid advance tax amount.

Section 234F – Penalty for Late Filing

This is a fixed penalty for late ITR filing. If you file after the due date:

• ₹5,000 penalty if filed before 31st Dec.
• ₹1,000 if total income is below ₹5 lakh.

Understanding these income tax penalty sections helps avoid unnecessary charges. Always file your return on time and ensure advance tax is paid correctly to escape ITR interest and penalty.

Belated, Revised & Updated ITR – What’s the Difference?

Many taxpayers get confused between belated, revised, and updated ITR. Here’s how they differ and when each one applies.

Belated Return

If you miss the original due date (usually 31st July) for filing, you can still file a belated return under Section 139(4). The deadline for filing a belated ITR is 31st December of the assessment year. But note: you may have to pay a penalty under Section 234F.

Revised Return

If you’ve already filed your return but made an error, you can correct it by filing a revised return under Section 139(5). The due date for filing a revised return is also 31st December of the assessment year. This helps you fix mistakes in income details, deductions, or bank accounts.

Updated Return (ITR-U)

Introduced under Finance Act 2022, the ITR-U meaning is to allow taxpayers to update income tax return even after the belated/revised return deadlines. You can file an updated return within 2 years from the end of the relevant assessment year, but it includes additional tax and interest.

Understanding belated vs revised return and ITR-U helps ensure tax compliance and avoid legal issues.

Can You Still File ITR After the Due Date?

Yes, you can still file ITR after 31st July, but it comes with certain conditions and consequences.

If you miss the original due date (31st July 2025 for FY 2024–25), you can file a belated return under Section 139(4). The belated return deadline is 31st December 2025. However, late filing attracts a penalty under Section 234F — ₹5,000 (₹1,000 if income is below ₹5 lakh) and may also lead to interest under Section 234A for any unpaid tax.

Additionally, if you discover any missed income later or want to voluntarily correct your filing even after 31st December, the ITR-U (Updated Return) offers a second chance. Introduced via the Finance Act 2022, ITR-U last date allows taxpayers to update returns within 2 years from the end of the relevant assessment year. So for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26), the deadline would be 31st March 2028.

Key Points:

• Belated ITR: File till 31st Dec 2025 with penalty.
• ITR-U: Update return till 31st Mar 2028 with extra tax & interest.
• Refunds and loss carry-forward benefits may be restricted.

ITR for Salaried Employees – Guide for FY 2024–25

Salaried individuals form the largest group of income tax filers in India. If you earn income from salary during FY 2024–25, you must file ITR for salaried employees on or before 31st July 2025 (non-audit cases).

The most common form for salaried taxpayers is ITR Form 1 (Sahaj). This form applies to:

• Individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh from salary, one house property, and other sources (like FD interest).
• Not applicable if you have capital gains or foreign assets.

How to File ITR for Salary:

1. Collect Form 16 from your employer.
2. Download Form 26AS and AIS from the income tax portal.
3. Choose the correct ITR form (mostly ITR Form 1).
4. Visit https://www.incometax.gov.in.
5. Log in and start the ITR filing process.
6. Pre-fill the details and verify them.
7. Submit and e-verify your return.

Filing ITR for salaried persons is simple if your documents are ready. Ensure you match TDS in Form 16 with 26AS to avoid mismatches.

Filing on time helps avoid penalties and makes loan and visa applications easier. Don't wait till the last date — file early and stay stress-free.

ITR for Freelancers, Consultants & Self-Employed – FY 2024–25

If you’re a freelancer, consultant, or self-employed professional, you’re required to file ITR for freelancers if your income exceeds the basic exemption limit in FY 2024–25. Filing returns on time ensures compliance and allows you to claim business expenses and tax deductions.

You can file either:

• ITR Form 3: If you maintain books of accounts.
• ITR Form 4 (Sugam): If you opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under Section 44ADA (for professionals earning up to ₹50 lakh annually).

Key Points for Self-Employed ITR:

• Maintain invoices, expense records, and payment proofs.
• Deduct business-related expenses like internet, rent, software, travel, etc.
• Pay advance tax in quarterly installments if liability exceeds ₹10,000.
   

Steps for ITR Filing for Consultants:

1. Gather bank statements, invoices, expense logs.
2. Calculate gross receipts and net income.
3. Choose between normal or presumptive scheme.
4. File ITR using income tax portal before 31st July 2025 (if not under audit).

Whether you’re a content creator, designer, or consultant, timely ITR filing for freelancers helps build financial credibility and avoid penalties.

Mandatory ITR Filing Even if Income < ₹5 Lakh – Know the Rules

Many believe that if their income is below ₹5 lakh, filing an income tax return (ITR) isn’t necessary. While that may be true in some cases, there are situations where ITR for low income is still mandatory.

Who Should File ITR Below ₹5 Lakh?

Even if your income is under ₹5 lakh, you must file ITR if:

• You deposited over ₹1 crore in a bank account.
• Spent over ₹2 lakh on foreign travel.
• Paid electricity bills exceeding ₹1 lakh in a year.
• Have foreign assets or income.
• Want to claim a refund or carry forward losses.
• TDS is deducted and you want a refund.

Benefits of Filing ITR for Low Income:

• Proof of income for loans, visas, or credit cards.
• Avoid notices from the IT Department.
• Helps in financial documentation and compliance.

So, even with a lower income, who should file ITR depends on your financial activities. Stay safe—file your ITR below 5 lakh before the due date to avoid complications later.

Loss Carry Forward: Why Timely Filing is Crucial for Taxpayers

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) on time is essential, especially if you want to benefit from the carry forward capital loss provisions. When you incur a loss from capital assets or business, you can adjust it against future income in subsequent years, but only if you file your ITR before the deadline.

Importance of Filing ITR Before Deadline

• If you miss the due date, you lose the benefit to carry forward losses like capital loss or business loss.
• Timely filing allows you to set off losses against other income, reducing your overall tax liability.
• Late filing means you cannot claim losses from previous years, resulting in higher taxable income and tax payable.

How Loss Set Off Works

• Short-term and long-term capital losses can be set off against capital gains.
• Business losses can be adjusted against income from other heads, subject to conditions.
• Filing ITR on time ensures you don’t miss out on these tax benefits.

To maximize your tax savings, always submit your ITR before the deadline and make sure to report losses accurately to carry them forward for future adjustments.

Top Tax Saving Options for FY 2024-25: How to Reduce Tax Effectively

Every taxpayer wants to save tax and make the most of available deductions. For FY 2024-25, there are several tax saving options under Section 80C and beyond that can help reduce your taxable income and increase your savings.

Save Tax Under Section 80C

• Investments up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C are eligible for deductions.
• Popular options include Public Provident Fund (PPF), Employee Provident Fund (EPF), Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), National Savings Certificate (NSC), and Life Insurance Premiums.
• Home loan principal repayment and tuition fees for children also qualify under 80C.

Other Tax Saving Options

• Section 80D: Deduction on health insurance premiums.
• Section 80E: Interest on education loans.
• Section 24(b): Deduction on home loan interest.
• National Pension Scheme (NPS) contributions for extra deductions.

How to Reduce Tax

• Plan your investments wisely before the financial year ends.
• Utilize all applicable deductions to lower your taxable income.
• File your ITR accurately to claim these benefits.

By understanding and using these tax saving options, you can effectively reduce tax for FY 2024-25 while securing your financial future.

Documents Required to File ITR in FY 2024–25

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) accurately requires having the right documents for ITR ready. Preparing a proper ITR filing checklist will make the process smoother and help avoid errors or delays.

Essential Income Tax Papers Required

• Form 16: Issued by your employer, this shows your salary details and tax deducted at source (TDS).
• Form 26AS: Tax credit statement showing all taxes paid and TDS deducted.
• Bank Statements: For interest income and verification of transactions.
• Investment Proofs: Documents related to investments made under Section 80C and other deductions (PPF, ELSS, insurance premiums).
• Proof of Other Income: Rental income, freelance income, or capital gains documents.
• Home Loan Statements: For claiming deductions on principal and interest payments.
• PAN Card and Aadhaar Card: For identity verification.
• Other Relevant Documents: If applicable, such as capital gains statements, business income details, or foreign income proof.

Why This Checklist Matters

Having these documents for ITR helps you file your return accurately and claim all eligible deductions. It also reduces chances of mistakes, notices from the income tax department, or delays in refunds.

Ensure your paperwork is complete before starting the ITR filing process for FY 2024-25.

Revising ITR: How to Correct Errors After Filing

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) is crucial, but sometimes mistakes happen. The good news is you can correct errors by filing a revised return. This process allows taxpayers to fix mistakes or update details after the original ITR has been submitted.

What is Revised Return Filing?

A revised return filing is the process of submitting a corrected ITR if you find errors like incorrect income details, wrong deductions, or missed information. The Income Tax Department allows you to file a revised return under Section 139(5) of the Income Tax Act.

How to Correct ITR Mistakes Online?

1. Log in to the official Income Tax e-filing portal.
2. Select the option for filing a revised return.
3. Choose the relevant Assessment Year and mention the acknowledgment number of the original ITR.
4. Make the necessary corrections in the ITR form.
5. Submit and verify the revised return before the deadline.

Important Points to Remember

• The revised return filing deadline is usually before the end of the relevant Assessment Year.
• You can file multiple revised returns, but only the latest one will be considered.
• Filing a revised return helps avoid penalties and notices from the income tax department.

Correct your ITR mistakes promptly through the ITR correction online process to stay compliant and stress-free.

How to Track Your Income Tax Refund Status

After filing your Income Tax Return (ITR), many taxpayers eagerly wait for their refund. Knowing how to track your income tax refund status can save you time and provide peace of mind. Here’s a simple guide to help you check refund online easily.

Ways to Track ITR Refund Status

1. Visit the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal
   Log in using your PAN and password. Under the 'My Account' section, select ‘Refund/Demand Status’ to view the current status of your refund.
2. Check Refund Status via NSDL Website
   You can track your refund by entering your PAN on the NSDL website dedicated to income tax refund status.
3. Use the TIN-NSDL Mobile App
   Download the app to get updates on your refund status directly on your mobile.

Important Points to Remember

• Refunds are usually processed within 30 to 60 days after filing your ITR.
• Make sure your bank account details in the ITR form are accurate to avoid delays.
• If there’s a delay, you can also call the Centralized Processing Centre (CPC) or visit your jurisdictional Income Tax Office.

FAQs

1. What is the last date to file ITR for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)?

The last date for individuals and non-audit cases is 31st July 2025. For taxpayers requiring audit, the deadline is 31st October 2025. Belated returns can be filed till 31st December 2025 with a penalty.

2. When does ITR filing start for FY 2024-25?

ITR filing is expected to start between 1st to 15th April 2025, once the income tax portal releases the updated ITR forms.

3. What is the difference between Financial Year (FY) and Assessment Year (AY)?

FY is the year in which income is earned (e.g., 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025).

AY is the year in which income is assessed and taxed (e.g., 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026).

4. What are the ITR due dates for different taxpayer categories in FY 2024-25?

31st July 2025: Individuals and non-audit cases

30th September 2025: Audit cases

30th November 2025: Transfer pricing cases

31st December 2025: Belated return deadline

5. What penalty applies for late filing of ITR?

A penalty under Section 234F applies:

₹5,000 if income exceeds ₹5 lakh

₹1,000 if income is below ₹5 lakh
No penalty if income is below taxable limit.

6. What happens if I miss the ITR filing deadline?

You may face a late filing fee, interest on tax dues, loss of carry forward benefits, refund delays, and legal complications.

7. Can I file my ITR after the deadline?

Yes, you can file a belated return till 31st December 2025 with penalties or an updated return (ITR-U) till 31st March 2030 with additional tax and interest.

8. How do I file ITR online for FY 2024-25?

Log in to the official e-filing portal (incometax.gov.in), select the relevant ITR form, fill in details, submit, and verify your return using Aadhaar OTP, EVC, or DSC.

9. What is Section 234A, 234B, and 234F related to ITR?

234A: Interest for late filing

234B: Interest for short or non-payment of advance tax

234F: Penalty for late filing of ITR

10. What is the difference between belated, revised, and updated returns?

Belated return: Filed after due date but before 31st Dec with penalty

Revised return: Correct errors in already filed return before 31st Dec

Updated return (ITR-U): File corrections within 2 years after AY ends with extra tax and interest

11. Why should I file my ITR on time?

To avoid penalties, carry forward losses, ensure faster refunds, and maintain compliance.

12. Is ITR filing mandatory for salaried employees?

Yes, salaried employees must file ITR if their income exceeds the basic exemption limit and to claim refunds or carry forward losses.