Filing Your ITR on Time: Key Deadlines & Taxpayer Implications for FY 2024–25

Posted on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 | By IndusInd Bank

Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) might not be the most exciting task on your to-do list—but it’s an important one. Whether you’re a salaried professional, a freelancer, or a small business owner, knowing when and how to file can help you avoid penalties, plan better, and breathe a little easier during tax season.

Let’s walk through the key dates, what they mean for you (especially if you’re paying advance tax or calculating self-assessment), and why keeping track of these deadlines matters more than you might think.

When does ITR Filing Begin for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26)?

ITR filing for Financial Year (FY) 2024–25 usually opens once the Income Tax Department notifies and enables the relevant forms on the income tax portal. This typically happens in early April for most taxpayers.

While you may technically start filing anytime after the forms are released, many prefer to wait until after Form 16 and other documents become available by the end of May or early June.

Pro tip: Even if you aren’t ready to file immediately, it’s smart to start gathering your documents and checking your AIS (Annual Information Statement) in advance.

What is the ITR Filing Due Date for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26)?

The due date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for Financial Year (FY) 2024–25, which corresponds to Assessment Year (AY) 2025–26, depends on the category of taxpayer. This year, the government has officially extended the deadline for certain groups.

Here’s a quick look at the revised due dates:

• September 15, 2025: For individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), salaried employees, and others not subject to tax audit
• October 31, 2025: For businesses and professionals required to get their accounts audited
• November 30, 2025: For taxpayers who must file a report under Section 92E (international or specified domestic transactions)
• December 31, 2025: Final date to file a belated or revised return, if applicable

What has changed this year?

The original due date for individual taxpayers was July 31, but it has been extended to September 15, 2025, giving taxpayers more time to file without facing interest under Section 234A—as long as Self-Assessment Tax is paid in full by the new date.

Still, it’s wise not to leave the filing until the last minute. Early filing gives you time to review your documents, catch errors, and avoid system traffic as the deadline approaches.

Why does the ITR Filing Deadline Sometimes Get Extended?

The Income Tax Department extends the due date for ITR filing whenever necessary. This usually happens due to:

• Technical glitches on the tax portal
• Natural calamities or unexpected disruptions
• Delays in issuing Form 16/Form 26AS or ITR forms
• Requests from taxpayers’ associations or professional bodies

But keep in mind: an extension is not guaranteed. So, it’s best to plan ahead and file early rather than count on extra time.

How a Deadline Extension Affects Self-Assessment Tax?

If you have any remaining tax liability after accounting for TDS and advance tax, you’ll need to pay Self-Assessment Tax before filing your return.

Now, even if the Income Tax Department extends the ITR filing deadline, that doesn’t mean interest or penalties are waived.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Interest under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C may still apply if you delay paying the Self-Assessment Tax
• The extension only applies to the return filing date—not to the timeline for paying your final tax dues

In short: A later deadline gives you more time to file, but interest continues to accrue until your full tax liability is cleared.

What an Extension Means for Advance Taxpayers?

Advance tax payment deadlines stay fixed, regardless of any ITR filing extensions. For FY 2024–25, the key instalment due dates are:

• June 15, 2024: First instalment (15%)
• September 15, 2024: Second instalment (45% cumulative)
• December 15, 2024: Third instalment (75% cumulative)
• March 15, 2025: Final instalment (100%)

Delays in these payments could lead to interest penalties, even if the return filing deadline shifts later.

So, if you’re someone who pays advance tax—stay on schedule, regardless of ITR timelines.

What Happens if You Miss the ITR Filing Due Date?

Missing the deadline can lead to more than just a rushed submission. Here’s what could happen:

• Late filing fees of up to ₹5,000 under Section 234F
• Interest on unpaid taxes, even if you’re just a few days late
• Loss of certain tax benefits, like carry-forward of capital losses
• Delayed refunds, if you’re eligible for one
• Limited time to revise your return, in case of errors

So, while one missed deadline won’t ruin your financial life, it can add a layer of stress you’d probably want to avoid.

Final Thoughts: Staying Ahead of ITR Deadlines

Filing your taxes isn’t something most people look forward to. But it becomes much easier when you stay informed and organized.

And this year, with the extended deadline of September 15, 2025 for individuals and salaried taxpayers, you get some extra breathing room. But don’t let the cushion lead to procrastination.

Use a digital calendar reminder, set up alerts, or block an afternoon in August to get it done early. It’s one of those things that feels much better once it’s out of the way.

While banks like IndusInd Bank don’t offer tax advice, we do provide helpful financial tools—like digital savings account, account statements, and auto-debit services—that make money management easier during tax season and beyond.

Because the best kind of tax season? The one where you’ve already filed, double-checked your form, and moved on—long before the deadline drama begins.