What Happens If You Miss the ITR Filing Deadline?

The Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline for most individuals in India is July 31st of the assessment year. But life happens—whether it’s a busy schedule or lack of documents, many taxpayers end up missing the deadline.

If you’ve missed the ITR filing deadline for AY 2024–25, don’t panic. You can still file a belated return, but there are consequences you should be aware of.

Here’s a complete breakdown of what happens when you miss the ITR deadline—and what you can do next.

🕒 What Is the Due Date for ITR Filing?

For most salaried individuals and non-audit cases, the deadline for ITR filing is:

📅 August 31, 2025 (for AY 2024–25)

Missing this deadline doesn’t mean you can’t file, but it does mean you'll face some penalties and lose certain benefits.

🔁 What Is a Belated Return?

If you miss the deadline, you can still file a belated return under Section 139(4) of the Income Tax Act.

Deadline for Belated Return:

📅 December 31, 2025 (for AY 2024–25)

You can file it the same way as a regular return—but with some drawbacks.

⚠️ Consequences of Missing the ITR Filing Deadline

1. Late Filing Fee (Section 234F)

You’ll have to pay a late fee of up to ₹5,000.

2. Interest on Tax Due (Section 234A)

If you have unpaid taxes, interest at 1% per month will be charged until you file your return.

3. Loss of Certain Deductions

You cannot carry forward losses (like capital losses from shares or mutual funds) if you miss the deadline.

4. Delayed Refunds

Even if TDS is deducted and you’re eligible for a refund, filing late may result in delayed processing.

5. No Interest on Refunds for Late Filing

You won’t earn interest on refunds for the delayed period between the due date and actual filing date.

6. Increased Risk of Scrutiny

Late filing may draw attention from the Income Tax Department, especially if your income is high or there are large transactions.

✅ What You Can Still Do

File a Belated Return

Don’t skip filing altogether. Submit your return as soon as possible to minimize interest and penalties.

Pay Outstanding Tax Immediately

Clear any tax dues before filing your belated return to reduce further interest under Section 234A.

Rectify Errors If Any

If you notice mistakes after filing, you can revise your belated return by December 31, 2025.

Don’t Stress — Let Filing World Help You

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• Belated returns without further delays

• Returns with unclaimed deductions or refunds

• Revised returns if you've already filed with errors

• Accurate filings to avoid notices or scrutiny

Our expert team of CAs will:

• Calculate exact late fees and interest

• Ensure all eligible deductions are included

• File your ITR correctly and on time—even if it's late

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