As per Indian law, filing your income tax return is essential to handling your personal finances (ITR). Whether you are an employee, freelancer, or business owner, you should know how to submit an Indian tax return online because it guarantees that you can reduce fines and fully utilize deductions and refunds.
For FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26), this blog will provide you with all the information you need to file your income taxes in India, including eligibility, necessary documents, procedures, common errors, and important dates.
Table of Contents
Why is income tax filing important?
Filing your income tax return is mandated by law and shows that you are financially responsible in India. Submission of an ITR on time can:
- Help you submit a tax return claim.
- Prove your income while applying for a loan or a visa.
- Permit losses to be carried forward.
- Avoid fines and legal issues.
Even if your income is below the taxable threshold, there may be long-term advantages to voluntarily filing an ITR.
Who in India Needs to File Income Tax Returns?
Indian tax regulations require you to submit your ITR if:
- Your gross total income surpasses ₹2.5 lakh (the previous regime’s threshold for those under 60).
- You’d like to get your money back.
- You have received revenue from freelancing, rent, or capital gains.
- You own unlisted stock or serve as a director of a business.
- You have assets or income overseas.
It is advisable to file returns to keep a record with the Income Tax Department, even if your income is below the limit.
Deadline to File Income Tax in India
The deadline to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) for the financial year 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) has been extended.
If you are a taxpayer not requiring an audit, the new due date is 15th September 2025, extended from the earlier The deadline to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) for the financial year 2024–25 (Assessment Year 2025–26) has been extended.
If you are a taxpayer not requiring an audit, the new due date is 15th September 2025, extended from the earlier 31st July 2025.
But don’t wait till the last minute; missing this deadline could cost you.
Income Tax Filing Due Dates for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)
| Category of Taxpayer | Due Date for Tax Filing – FY 2024-25 *(unless extended) |
|---|---|
| Individual / HUF/ AOP/ BOI (Books of accounts not required to be audited) | 15th September 2025 |
| Businesses (Requiring Audit) | 31st October 2025 |
| Businesses requiring transfer pricing reports (in case of international/specified domestic transactions) | 30th November 2025 |
| Revised return | 31st December 2025 |
| Belated/late return | 31st December 2025 |
| Updated return | 31 March 2030 (4 years from the end of the relevant Assessment Year) |
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t file your ITR by 15th September 2025, you can still submit a belated return by 31st December 2025. However, this comes with penalties and interest.
Here’s what you might face:
1. Interest on Late Payment (Section 234A)
You’ll be charged 1% interest per month (or part of a month) on any unpaid tax amount, calculated from the due date until the date of filing.
2. Late Filing Fee (Section 234F)
- ₹5,000, if your total income is above ₹5 lakh
- ₹1,000, if your total income is ₹5 lakh or less
3. Loss of Tax Benefits
Filing late can also result in:
- Losing the chance to carry forward certain losses
- Delayed refunds, if any, are due
Required Documents for India’s ITR Filing
Before initiating the ITR filing process, ensure that you have the following documentation available:
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Form 16 (for salaried individuals) from the employer
- Information about a bank account
- Interest certificates (found in FDs and savings accounts)
- Investment evidence (e.g., LIC, ELSS, PPF)
- Returns on capital gains
- Statement of home loan (if qualifying for a Section 24 deduction)
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Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filing ITR
Avoiding errors while filing ensures faster processing and prevents unnecessary scrutiny. Common mistakes include:
- Choosing the wrong ITR form
- Not reporting interest income
- Missing out on deductions
- Using incorrect bank account details
- Forgetting to e-verify, which invalidates the submission
Always cross-check Form 16, bank statements, and Annual Information Statement (AIS) for accuracy.
Benefits of Filing ITR on Time
Filing your return before the July 31st, 2025 deadline has several advantages:
- Avoids penalties and interest
- Allows carry forward of losses
- Enables quicker refund processing
- Required for loan or visa applications
- Maintains a strong financial record
Early filers also have more time to rectify any issues in their return or portal profile.
Conclusion
Filing your income tax return in India is now simpler than ever. With online portals, pre-filled data, and help available from experts, there’s no reason to delay. Gather your documents, choose the correct tax regime, file before the July 31, 2025 deadline, and enjoy peace of mind.
Take control of your finances, file your ITR on time, and avoid last-minute stress.
FAQ
You can file a belated return by December 31, 2025, with a penalty. However, certain benefits, like loss carry-forward, may be lost.
Yes, the return can be revised until December 31, 2025, if errors are identified.
Yes, if your gross income exceeds the basic exemption limit, ITR filing is compulsory.
Yes, you can use salary slips and AIS data to compute and file your return.
