Income Tax Return Filing Last Date 15 Sept – Don’t Miss the Deadline

Filing your income tax return (ITR) is not just a legal requirement—it’s an important part of managing your finances. The deadline for filing this year is September 15, and missing it can lead to penalties, delayed refunds, or loss of benefits.
Whether you are a salaried professional, self-employed, or running a business, timely ITR filing ensures compliance and helps avoid unnecessary financial stress.

What is tax?

To finance the infrastructure and other government services, the government levies taxes on individuals and companies. The income tax in India is imposed on the income that is generated out of salary, business, property, and the rest. The purpose of filing your income tax return is to state your income, to pay any outstanding tax, and to seek a refund where you have overpaid tax.

Income Tax Return Filing Starting Date

The income tax return filing deadline for this year’s assessment has been 1st April 2025. From this date, taxpayers can log in to the Income Tax e-Filing Portal and file their returns for the past financial year.

Income Tax Return Filing Ending Date

The deadline to file income tax returns is September 15, 2025. This is the last day for most individual taxpayers to submit their ITRs without penalties.

Due Dates for ITR Filing

• For Individuals & Non-Audit Cases – 15 September 2025
• For Businesses Requiring Audit – 31 October 2025
• For Businesses Requiring Transfer Pricing Report – 30 November 2025

These income tax return filing dates are set by the Income Tax Department and are updated annually.

Can I file ITR after the deadline?

Yes, the income tax belated return can be filed even on the last date for income tax ITR filing, but it is called a belated return. However, belated filing may also be made on or before 31 December 2025:

• You will have to pay a late penalty (up to ₹5,000).
• You can not carry forward a certain type of loss.
• Returns may take longer to process.

Why It Matters When Filing an Income Tax Return

The ITR filing date matters because:

1. Avoids Penalties: Filing on time saves you from late fees under Section 234F.
2. Faster Refunds: Early filing means quicker processing.
3. Loss Carry Forward: You can carry forward business or capital losses.
4. Better Financial Record: Useful for loans, visas, and business compliance.

Why It's Important to File Income Tax Returns on Time

Filing your income tax return on or before the ITR filing date ensures compliance with the law and keeps you safe from unnecessary hassles. Apart from avoiding penalties, it also helps you:

• Carry forward losses to future years
• Claim refunds on excess tax paid
• Maintain a clean financial record for loan and visa applications

Impacts of Forgetting the ITR Filing Date

If you miss the income tax ITR filing last date, you may have to pay late fees under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act. You could also lose out on certain deductions and carry-forward benefits. Moreover, delayed ITR filing means delayed refunds, which can affect your cash flow.

Documents Needed for ITR Filing

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Form 16 (from the employer)
• Form 26AS (tax credit statement)
• Salary Slips
• Bank Account Statements
• TDS Certificates (Form 16A, 16B, etc.)
• Investment Proofs (ELSS, LIC, PPF, etc.)
• Home Loan Interest Certificate (if applicable)
• Rental Income Details (if applicable)
• Capital Gains Statements (for shares, property, etc.)

How to File ITR Before the Income Tax Return Filing Last Date

1. Log in to the Portal: Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal using PAN and password. 
2. Select the file Income Tax Return: Pick the right assessment year.
3. Choose the Correct ITR Form: Based on your income sources (ITR-1, ITR-2, etc.)
4. Income & Tax Information: Enter your salary, business income, interest, and deductions.
5. Fill, Review, and Submit: Enter accurate details, verify, and submit your return. Double-check all details to avoid errors..
6. E-Verify: Complete the process using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or sending a signed ITR-V to CPC.

Final Thoughts

With the income tax return filing last date of 15 September approaching fast, don’t wait for the previous day. Technical glitches, missing documents, or last-minute errors can cause unnecessary delays. Filing early gives you peace of mind and keeps you on the right side of the law.

FAQs 

1. What is the income tax return filing deadline for 2025?
The last date for most individual taxpayers is 15 September 2025.

2. Can I file ITR after the due date?
Yes, but it will be a belated return, accompanied by late fees and some restrictions.

3. Where can I file my ITR?
On the Income Tax e-Filing Portal.

4. What happens if I miss the ITR filing date?
You may be subject to a penalty, lose benefits, and experience refund delays.

5. When did ITR filing start this year?
The ITR filing date started on 1 April 2025.