ITR Deadline Alert 2026: Revised and Belated Return Window Closed

Kokila Chokkanathan
The Income Tax Department of India has announced that the deadline for filing revised and belated Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the financial year 2025-26 has officially ended. Taxpayers who missed the December 31, 2025, deadline now have only one option left, which can be costly if delayed further.

What You Need to Know

Revised Return

Taxpayers who filed their original ITR but later found errors or omissions could submit a revised return.

The window for submitting revised returns ended on December 31, 2025.

Belated Return

Individuals who missed the original deadline for filing ITR could still file a belated return before december 31, 2025.

Belated returns are accepted up to the end of the assessment year (March 31, 2026, in most cases), but heavy penalties apply.

Now Only One Option Remains

After december 31, 2025, taxpayers can still file their ITR, but only as a belated return, if the financial year allows.

Penalty for late filing:

Up to ₹5,000 if filed after the deadline but before december 31 (already passed).

Now, late filing penalties can be higher, along with interest on outstanding tax.

Consequences of Missing the Deadline

  • Late Filing Fee: Under Section 234F, a fee of up to ₹10,000 may be levied if the return is filed after march 31 of the assessment year.
  • Interest on Tax Due: Section 234A requires payment of interest on any unpaid tax.
  • Loss of Refund or Carry Forward Benefits: Belated returns may limit your ability to carry forward losses for future years.
Steps to File a Belated Return Now

Log in to the Income Tax e-filing portal.

Select the relevant assessment year (2025-26).

Choose “File Belated Return” option.

Fill in your income, deductions, and tax details accurately.

Submit the return along with any late fees and interest.

Keep an acknowledgment copy for records.

Pro Tip: Even if penalties are high, it’s better to file a belated return than not filing at all. Non-filing can attract scrutiny and legal action.

Key Takeaways

  • December 31, 2025, marked the final window for revised and belated returns without excessive penalties.
  • After this, only late filing with higher costs remains.
  • Filing sooner rather than later reduces penalties and interest burden.
  • Accurate filing ensures eligibility for tax refunds and future carry-forward losses.
 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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