Last Day to File Income Tax Return: Why Filing is Important and Documents You Need

The final deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year 2025–26 is September 15, 2025. The Income Tax Department has reminded taxpayers that no further extension will be granted this year. Already, more than six crore ITRs have been filed, with numbers expected to rise further as last-minute filers complete the process.

Earlier, the due date was July 31, but it was extended by six weeks due to “structural and content revisions” in the ITR forms. The department has also ensured round-the-clock assistance through calls, live chat, WebEx sessions, and social media support.

Importance of Filing Income Tax Return

Filing ITR is not just a legal obligation; it has multiple practical and financial benefits.

1. Legal Compliance

Every person with taxable income above the basic exemption limit must file ITR. Non-filing can lead to penalties, interest, and prosecution in some cases.

2. Proof of Income

ITR acts as an authentic document for proof of income. It is often required when applying for loans, credit cards, or foreign visas.

3. Claiming Refunds

Excess tax paid, either through TDS or advance tax, can only be claimed back by filing ITR. Without filing, refunds remain unclaimed.

4. Carry Forward of Losses

Losses such as capital losses or business losses can only be carried forward if ITR is filed on time. This helps reduce tax liability in future years.

5. Avoiding Penalties and Notices

Late filing can attract a penalty up to ₹5,000 under Section 234F. Timely filing also reduces the chances of receiving scrutiny notices.

6. National Contribution

For AY 2024–25, a record 7.28 crore ITRs were filed, up from 6.77 crore the previous year, reflecting a 7.5% growth. Rising compliance contributes to economic development.

Documents Required for Filing ITR

Though no attachments are needed while filing (ITR forms are annexure-less), keeping documents ready ensures accuracy:

  • Form 16 – Provided by employer, shows salary and TDS.

  • Annual Information Statement (AIS) – Summarises income, TDS/TCS, property transactions, interest, and dividends.

  • House Rent Receipts – For HRA exemption.

  • Investment Proofs – Tax-saving instruments like PPF, ELSS, insurance premiums.

  • Payment Receipts – For deductions like medical insurance under Section 80D.

  • Bank Statements – To verify interest income and deposits.

  • PAN and Aadhaar – Mandatory for login and verification.

Choosing the Correct ITR Form

Taxpayers must select the appropriate ITR form:

  • ITR-1 (SAHAJ): For individuals with income up to ₹50 lakh from salary, one house property, or other sources.

  • ITR-2: For individuals and HUFs without business/professional income but not eligible for ITR-1.

  • ITR-3: For individuals and HUFs with income from business or profession.

  • ITR-4 (SUGAM): For resident individuals, HUFs, and firms (except LLPs) with income up to ₹50 lakh under presumptive taxation.

Step-by-Step Guide to File ITR Online

  1. Log in at incometax.gov.in using PAN and password.

  2. Navigate to e-File > Income Tax Returns > File Income Tax Return.

  3. Select AY 2025–26 and choose Online mode.

  4. Select taxpayer type (Individual, HUF, etc.).

  5. Pick the correct ITR form.

  6. Fill in details of income, deductions, and tax paid.

  7. Preview and validate all entries.

  8. Submit the return.

  9. Complete e-Verification using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or by posting signed ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru within 30 days.

  10. Receive Transaction ID and Acknowledgement Number as confirmation.

Final Reminder

The Income Tax Department has emphasized that taxpayers should file their returns well before the midnight deadline to avoid portal congestion. With no further extensions, timely compliance is the only way to avoid penalties and secure financial benefits such as refunds and carry-forward of losses.


Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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