September 15 is the final day to file 2025-26 Income Tax returns, no extension announced

The Income Tax Department has confirmed there will be no extension of the deadline for filing 2025–26 ITRs beyond September 15. Taxpayers have only hours left to avoid penalties.

The countdown has begun for taxpayers across India as today, September 15, marks the last day to file Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the assessment year 2025–26. The Income Tax Department has made it clear that there will be no deadline extension, putting to rest speculation about a possible grace period.

Traditionally, July 30 has been the deadline for filing ITRs, with occasional extensions granted in past years due to technical glitches or other issues. However, this year the department had already given taxpayers additional time until September 15, and no further extension will be provided.

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As of today, 6.69 crore taxpayers have filed their returns, compared to 7.28 crore filers by July 30 last year. Chartered accountants estimate that by the end of the day, the number could cross 8 crore.

The department has urged taxpayers not to wait until the last minute, reminding them that fake news about an extension is circulating online. “Do not believe rumours of a deadline extension. File your returns before midnight today to avoid late fees,” the department stated in a public advisory.

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Those who miss today’s deadline will still be able to file belated returns until December 31, 2025, but with penalties. Individuals with annual income up to ₹5 lakh will be required to pay a late fee of ₹1,000, while those earning above ₹5 lakh will face a penalty of ₹5,000, in addition to interest on any unpaid tax.

A fake news is in circulation stating that the due of filing ITRs (originally due on 31.07.2025, and extended to 15.09.2025) has been further extended to 30.09.2025.

✅ The due date for filing ITRs remains 15.09.2025.

Taxpayers are advised to rely only on official… pic.twitter.com/F7fPEOAztZ

— Income Tax India (@IncomeTaxIndia) September 14, 2025

On a positive note, taxpayers who have already filed their returns are reportedly receiving faster refunds this year, with many credited within hours. The IT department has streamlined its systems to process refunds more quickly, offering an incentive for early filers.

Experts are advising taxpayers to gather their Form 16 (A and B) from employers and use either the department’s e-filing portal or consult a Chartered Accountant to file before the clock strikes midnight.

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