Karnataka: In a significant move aimed at reducing the compliance burden on taxpayers, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the deadline for filing income tax returns (ITR) for assessment year (AY) 2025-26. The due date, which was earlier set at July 31, 2025, has now been extended by six weeks to September 15, 2025.
The income tax department announced the extension through a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying the decision has been taken in view of the substantial amendments made to the ITR forms this year as well as the ongoing development and enhancement of the department’s digital infrastructure. The department also cited the need to ensure that tax deduction at source (TDS) credits are accurately reflected in taxpayers’ accounts.
“The CBDT has decided to extend the due date for filing ITR, which is July 31, 2025, to September 15, 2025,” the department said in its post. “This extension will provide more time due to significant modifications in ITR forms, system development needs, and TDS credit reflection. This ensures a seamless and more accurate filing experience for all.” Formal notification will be given later.”
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Tax experts have welcomed the decision, saying the updated ITR forms include several new fields and disclosure requirements, which demand additional time for proper data gathering and verification. Moreover, professionals have pointed out that the availability of Form 16 and delays in reconciliation of TDS entries on Form 26AS have made it difficult for many salaried and small business taxpayers to complete their filings on time.
The extension is likely to benefit not just individual taxpayers but also chartered accountants and tax preparers, who have been urging the government to provide additional time to adapt to the updated reporting requirements and backend changes introduced in the filing portal.This is not the first time the CBDT has extended the deadline for filing returns in recent years. Similar extensions have been given during the Covid-19 pandemic and during previous years when more time was required for compliance due to technical glitches or policy changes. A formal circular from the CBDT detailing the extended deadline and clarifying any related provisions is expected to be issued soon.a
