ITR Filing Deadline for AY 2025-26: Everything You Need to Know

Got the ITR deadline on your mind? It’s September 15 for the 2025-26 assessment year, and the clock’s already ticking. Miss it and you’ll face a hefty fine, so here’s a quick guide to get your return in on time, even if you’re using just your phone.

Why September 15 Matters

The Centre extended the deadline for non‑audit taxpayers after a short‑term CBDT freeze. That means anyone who isn’t required to get a CA audit must file by the 15th, or risk a Section 234F penalty of up to ₹5,000 plus 1% monthly interest on any tax due.

For most individuals, the penalty starts at ₹1,000 if you’re up to two months late, then ramps up. The interest keeps adding every month, so the longer you wait, the more you pay.

How to File Without a CA – Mobile‑First Tips

Don’t have a chartered accountant? No problem. The Income Tax Department’s mobile app pulls pre‑filled data from your PAN, so you just confirm details, add deductions, and hit submit.

Step‑by‑step:

• Download the official Income Tax India app from Google Play or the App Store.
• Log in with your PAN and OTP.
• Check the pre‑filled info – verify salary, TDS, interest income, etc.
• Enter deductions under Section 80C, 80D, etc., using receipts saved as photos.
• Review the tax calculation, pay any balance, and file.

The app also shows you a preview of your refund (if any) and lets you track the status in real time.

If you prefer a browser, the Income Tax e‑filing portal works similarly – just make sure you have a stable internet connection and all your Form 16s ready.

Got glitches? The portal sometimes stalls around peak filing dates. In that case, switch to the mobile app or try filing in the early morning when traffic is lighter.

Even after the September deadline, you can still file a belated return up to December 31, 2025. The same penalty applies, but you won’t lose the chance to claim refunds or carry forward losses.

Revised returns are also allowed – if you discover a mistake after filing, you have until December 31 to correct it without extra fines, as long as the original return was filed before the deadline.

Bottom line: set a reminder for early September, gather your docs, and use the mobile app to avoid the hassle of a CA. That way you dodge the ₹5,000 fine and keep your tax affairs clean.