ITR Filing Last Date: What happens if you don’t file ITR today? Know the penalties and consequences

This deadline applies to individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and entities that use ITR Forms 1 to 4. If you have not filed your income tax return till today, then you may have to face serious consequences.

New Delhi: Today is the last date to file Income Tax Return (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025-26. This year the Income Tax Department had extended the deadline for filing tax returns from 31 July to 15 September. The department has made it clear that this date of 15 September will not be extended further. This is the last chance for taxpayers who do not come under tax audit.

Who Can File Tax?

This deadline applies to individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and entities that use ITR Forms 1 to 4. If you have not filed your income tax return till today, then you may have to face serious consequences.

Filed your ITR? Don’t forget this essential step to receive your refund

Provision Of Penalty

Filing the return after 15 September will attract a penalty under section 234F. Those with income above Rs 5 lakh will have to pay a penalty of Rs 5,000, while taxpayers with income less than this will be fined Rs 1,000. However, late returns can be filed till  31 December, 2025, and updated returns (ITR-U) can be submitted till 31 March, 2030.

Interest Charged On Tax Dues

If tax is due and the return is not filed on time, one per cent interest per month will be charged on the outstanding tax under section 234A. This interest will be applicable from the last date of return to the date of filing.

Income Tax has released ITR-6 form, who will get the benefit, who can use it?

Loss Will Be Suffered

If you have incurred a loss in investment or business, it can be adjusted against the income of the next year. But to carry forward the loss, it is necessary to file the return on time. If you file the return late, you will lose this benefit and will not be able to adjust the loss against future profits. However, it is possible to carry forward the loss related to house property.

If your tax liability is more than Rs 25,000 and you do not file the return on time, you may face a minimum jail term of 6 months to 7 years and a fine. At the same time, in case of tax amount less than Rs 25,000, the jail term can be from 3 months to 2 years.

Filing income tax returns is the need of the hour. Late filing can lead to financial loss along with penalty, interest and legal action. Therefore, it is important to file your tax return correctly today so that you can avoid all these troubles.