The “extend due date immediately” hashtag is trending again in 2025 because tax professionals and taxpayers are facing a recurring set of issues that make it difficult to file Income Tax Returns (ITRs) by the deadline. Even with the deadline for non-audit cases already extended from July 31 to September 15, a new wave of requests for a further extension has emerged.
The demand is primarily driven by three key factors:
1. Persistent Technical Glitches
Despite the government’s efforts to streamline the e-filing portal, users continue to report a wide range of technical problems. These include:
- Data Mismatches: There are often discrepancies between the data available on the portal and taxpayer-provided information in documents like Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement (AIS), and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS).
- System Slowdowns: The portal frequently slows down or crashes as the deadline approaches, making it nearly impossible for users to log in or complete the filing process.
- Unresolved Errors: Users have reported validation errors and other technical issues that prevent them from submitting their returns, forcing them to wait for department fixes.
2. Delayed Release of ITR Utilities
Tax professionals, especially chartered accountants, have consistently raised concerns about the late release of ITR forms and utilities. This year, specific utilities for ITR-5 and ITR-6 were reportedly made available just days before the deadline, leaving minimal time for professionals to handle a high volume of returns. This delay is particularly challenging for businesses and trusts with complex financial statements.
3. Increased Compliance Burden
The compliance requirements have become more complex, adding to the workload. New formats for tax audit reports and other changes mean that tax professionals need more time to prepare and verify information. The significant volume of unfiled returns in the final days before the deadline indicates that the current timeframe is not sufficient for a large number of taxpayers to complete their filings accurately.
In response to these issues, professional bodies like the BJP Chartered Accountant Cell have formally written to the Finance Minister, requesting an extension of the due dates for various filings, including non-audit ITRs, tax audit reports, and ITRs in audit cases. While the Income Tax Department has not yet provided an official response, it has continued to urge taxpayers to file their returns early to avoid last-minute complications.