Summary
As the ITR filing deadline 2025 approaches on September 15, 2025, lakhs of taxpayers across India are rushing to complete their Income Tax Returns (ITR) before time runs out. The recent extension from July 31 to September 15 brought relief to many, but tax professionals and industry bodies continue to demand another last-minute extension, citing technical glitches and heavy portal traffic.
In this article, we bring you real-time ITR filing updates, the latest statistics, due date rules, penalties for late filing, benefits of early filing, and answers to some of the most common FAQs.
Massive Surge in ITR Filings Before September 15, 2025
According to the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal, over 5.3 crore returns have already been filed by September 10, 2025. This includes 4.99 crore verified returns and 3.57 crore processed returns.
However, with nearly 8 crore taxpayers expected to file this year, over 2.5 crore returns are still pending in the last five days. On September 9 alone, 16.3 lakh returns were filed, showing a massive surge as the deadline nears.
Why File ITR Even if Income is Below ₹12 Lakh
Many individuals wrongly assume that there is no need to file an ITR if their income is below ₹12 lakh. The truth is:
- The basic exemption limit is only ₹3 lakh under the new tax regime and ₹2.5 lakh under the old regime.
- Filing ITR ensures financial transparency, faster loan approvals, and acts as proof of income for visas and other financial transactions.
- Even if your income is tax-exempt, filing an ITR helps avoid future complications.
ITR Filing for Salaried Employees and F&O Traders
If you are a salaried employee trading in Futures and Options (F&O), here’s what you need to know:
- Without audit requirement: File ITR by September 15, 2025
- With audit requirement: File ITR by October 31, 2025
Penalties for Missing the ITR Deadline
Missing the deadline could be costly:
- Late Fee: ₹5,000 if income exceeds ₹5 lakh; ₹1,000 if income is below ₹5 lakh
- Interest & Penalty: Non-payment of tax attracts interest and penalties
- Prosecution: For unpaid taxes over ₹25 lakh, imprisonment can range from 6 months to 7 years
Benefits of Filing ITR Before the Deadline
- Faster Refunds: Early filers often get refunds within hours
- Peace of Mind: Avoid last-minute portal issues
- Financial Proof: Mandatory for loans, visas, and financial records
- Error-Free Returns: Extra time to correct mistakes before submission
A recent real story shows a first-time filer receiving a refund within 5 hours after filing—proof that early filing pays off.
Latest Demands for Due Date Extension: ITR Filing Deadline 2025 Updates
Tax professionals, including the KSCAA, ICAI, and ATBA, have urged the Finance Ministry to extend the deadline again, citing high portal traffic and technical issues. Campaigns like #extend_due_date_now are trending on social media as thousands of taxpayers demand relief.
Key Takeaways for Taxpayers: ITR Filing Deadline 2025 Updates
- File your ITR before September 15, 2025, to avoid penalties
- Keep documents like Form 16, Form 26AS, and AIS ready
- Use the correct ITR form, such as ITR-2, for online gaming income
- Check tax deductions and verify TDS credits carefully
ITR Filing Deadline 2025 Updates: Conclusion
The ITR filing deadline 2025 is fast approaching. With over 2.5 crore returns pending, taxpayers must act quickly to avoid penalties and last-minute stress. While an extension is uncertain, filing now ensures peace of mind, faster refunds, and complete compliance with tax laws.
Note: All information and images used in this content are sourced from Google. They are used here for informational and illustrative purposes only.
FAQs on ITR Filing Deadline 2025
1. What is the ITR filing deadline for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)?
The ITR filing deadline for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) is September 15, 2025, for individuals and non-audit cases. For taxpayers requiring an audit, the deadline is October 31, 2025.
2. Will the ITR filing deadline be extended again in 2025?
As of now, the Income Tax Department has not announced any further extension. The due date was already extended once from July 31 to September 15, 2025. Tax professionals are demanding more time, but no official confirmation has been given.
3. How many ITRs have been filed till September 10, 2025?
By September 10, 2025, over 5.3 crore ITRs were filed. Out of these, 4.99 crore returns were verified and 3.57 crore returns were processed successfully.
4. Why should I file my ITR before the deadline even if my income is below ₹12 lakh?
Even if your income is below ₹12 lakh, filing ITR is beneficial because:
- It provides official income proof for loans and visas
- Ensures faster tax refunds
- Helps maintain a clean tax record
- Prevents future penalty issues if your income rises later
5. What is the penalty for the late filing of the ITR in 2025?
If you miss the September 15 deadline:
- A ₹5,000 penalty applies if income exceeds ₹5 lakh
- A ₹1,000 penalty applies if income is ₹5 lakh or less
Additional interest charges and prosecution provisions may apply for major defaults.
6. Which ITR form is required for income from online gaming?
For online gaming income, taxpayers generally need to file ITR-2 or ITR-3, depending on other income sources. Winnings must be reported under Income from Other Sources in the ITR.
7. How fast are income tax refunds processed in 2025?
Early filers are receiving refunds in as little as 5 hours after verification. Filing before the deadline ensures quicker processing and faster refunds.
8. What are the benefits of filing ITR early?
- Timely refunds and fewer errors
- Peace of mind before the deadline rush
- Better tax planning for future years
- Financial documentation for loans and visas
9. Are there any special provisions for salaried individuals trading in F&O?
Yes. If auditing is not required, the due date is September 15, 2025. If auditing is required, the due date extends to October 31, 2025.
10. How many ITRs are expected by the final deadline in 2025?
The Income Tax Department expects around 8 crore ITRs to be filed by September 15, 2025, with more than 2.5 crore returns still pending in the last five days.