ITR Filing Alert: The Deadline is September 15, 2025!
The income tax return (ITR) filing season is in full swing, and if you’re a first-time filer in India, this is especially for you. The deadline to file your ITR for the financial year 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) has been extended to September 15, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute—filing early makes the process stress-free and smooth.
Why was the deadline extended?
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) extended the due date by 45 days, from the original July 31 deadline, to accommodate significant changes in the ITR forms. This gave the Income Tax Department time to update its e-filing portal and allowed taxpayers to accurately reflect their TDS credits and other new reporting requirements.
A First-Timer’s Guide to ITR Filing
If you’re filing for the first time, here’s a simple checklist to get you started:
- Gather Your Documents: Keep your PAN, Aadhaar, bank account details, and Form 16 (if you’re a salaried employee) ready.
- Register on the E-filing Portal: Create an account on the official Income Tax Department website.
- Choose the Right Form: Most salaried individuals will use ITR-1 (Sahaj). Make sure you select the correct form to avoid delays or penalties.
- Fill and Submit: Enter your details, cross-check the tax credits in your Form 26AS and Annual Information Statement (AIS), and submit your return.
- E-verify: The process is incomplete without e-verification. You have 30 days after filing to verify your return using an Aadhaar OTP or another method.
Filing your ITR correctly and on time is a crucial step toward building good financial discipline. By following these steps, you can complete your first filing confidently and avoid any unnecessary hassles.