What if you miss the 15 September ITR deadline?

 

If you have not filed your Income Tax Return (ITR) by 15 September, the consequences are more than just a fine. Missing the deadline can result in multiple financial setbacks.

 

Under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers who fail to file within the prescribed date are liable to pay a penalty. Although the window for filing does not completely close, the return filed after the deadline will be considered belated. Such returns can be submitted until 31 December 2025. Taxpayers also have the option of filing updated returns (ITR-U) up to 31 March 2030.

 

Apart from penalties, interest is also applicable under Section 234A of the Income Tax Act if any tax amount remains unpaid. In this case, a taxpayer must pay one per cent simple interest each month on the outstanding dues, starting from the due date until the return is eventually filed.

 

How to file your ITR

 

• Visit the official Income Tax portal at https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/

• Log in with your PAN or Aadhaar number and password

• Go to the return filing section

• Select the correct assessment year and preferred filing method

• Choose whether to file online or offline and begin the process

• Pick the ITR form that matches your income profile

• Verify the details carefully before proceeding

• Clear any pending tax payments

• Submit the return and complete the e-verification

 

Was the deadline extended?