Last-Minute ITR Deadline Extended: What You Must Know About Filing by September 16!

New Delhi: The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has announced a one-day extension for filing income tax returns (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025-26, now due on September 16. This decision follows reports from taxpayers and chartered accountants about accessibility issues with the online portal. With a record of over 7 crore ITRs already filed, the IT department emphasizes that support services remain available 24/7 to assist with compliance.

Extension of ITR Filing Deadline

The CBDT’s recent announcement reveals a crucial extension for income tax return filings. Originally set for July 31, 2025, the due date was first postponed to September 15 and has now been further pushed to September 16, 2025. The official statement made by CBDT highlights the importance of adapting to the technical challenges posed by taxpayers attempting to use the e-filing portal.

Record Numbers of Tax Returns Filed

As of September 15, over 7.3 crore income tax returns have been successfully filed. This impressive figure surpasses last year’s total of 7.28 crore, marking a record achievement for the Income Tax Department. In their statement, they expressed gratitude to taxpayers and professionals for their commitment to timely compliance, saying, “We sincerely thank taxpayers & professionals for their timely compliance.” This surge in filings underscores the ongoing engagement of citizens with the Indian tax system.

24/7 Helpdesk for Taxpayer Support

In light of difficulties faced by users trying to navigate the e-filing portal, the Income Tax Department has established a 24/7 helpdesk ready to assist taxpayers. This initiative is aimed at addressing common issues during the filing process and ensuring that help is available at any hour. Additionally, the department has provided a guide for taxpayers experiencing browser issues, aiding them to better utilize the e-filing system.

Steps to Resolve E-filing Challenges

To help taxpayers navigate technical issues when filing their returns online, the Income Tax Department has provided a set of useful steps. These include:

• Delete temporary files: Use the command Win + R and type temp and %temp% to delete files.
• Clear browser cache and cookies: Go to your browser settings and complete the process of clearing browsing data.
• Use a different browser: Ensure you are using the latest versions of browsers like Chrome or Edge.
• Open in Incognito/Private mode: This can bypass extensions that may interfere with the filing process.
• Update your browser: Confirm that your browser is up-to-date to minimize compatibility issues.
• Try a different network: Changing your Wi-Fi or using a mobile hotspot may resolve connection problems.

What This Means for Taxpayers

The extended deadline offers taxpayers a crucial opportunity to navigate the challenges faced with online filing. As the deadlines loom, understanding the procedures and having access to resources is essential. Taxpayers should utilize the support services provided by the Income Tax Department to address any lingering issues. The proactive approach of the tax authorities reflects their commitment to making the filing process smoother and more efficient.

Real-World Example: How a Mumbai Small Business Benefited

Consider a small business owner from Mumbai, Priya, who faced considerable frustration with the e-filing portal. With the original deadline fast approaching, she encountered multiple access issues that could have jeopardized her compliance. Thanks to the extended deadline, Priya was able to follow the troubleshooting steps recommended by the Income Tax Department. After clearing her cache and switching to Chrome, she successfully filed her returns just in time. This extension not only saved her from potential penalties but also allowed her to engage in financial planning for the upcoming year without stress.

Key Dates	Original Deadline	First Extended Deadline	Final Deadline
ITR Filing for AY 2025-26	31st July 2025	15th September 2025	16th September 2025
Total ITRs Filed	7.3 Crore (as of 15th September 2025)

This extension is beneficial not just for compliance but also aids taxpayers in financial planning in a time of economic uncertainty. Whether you’re a salaried individual or a small business owner, embracing these changes and utilizing available resources can significantly enhance your filing experience. As the Indian economy continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared is key to navigating the future of taxation effectively.

Bankerpedia’s Insight 💡

The CBDT’s extension of the ITR filing deadline highlights growing concerns around portal accessibility, impacting both individual taxpayers and financial professionals. With over 7 crore returns filed, this adjustment reflects the system’s strain as compliance increases. Such government responsiveness fosters trust, crucial for a thriving banking and finance sector where timely disclosures influence credit decisions and transparency. For taxpayers, utilizing the extended deadline wisely can ease pressures. Stay informed through official channels and ensure timely submissions to avoid penalties and maintain financial health.

What Does This Mean for Me? 🤔

If I am a…	The Impact is…
Salaried Person	Extra day to file income tax return easily.
Business Owner	Extra day to meet income tax filing obligations.
Student	Extended deadline reduces stress for filing income tax returns.
Self-employed	Extra day to file tax returns provides flexibility for deadlines.
Homemaker	Tax filing deadline extended, giving homemakers more time.
Retiree / Senior Citizen	More time to file tax returns reduces stress for seniors.
Job Seeker	Extended deadline offers more time for tax filing.
Farmer / Rural Citizen	Extra day for tax filing eases financial planning stress.

Research References 📚

• RBI
• SEBI
• Ministry of Finance
• NABARD
• Department of Financial Services (DFS)
• IMF
• World Bank

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