ITR Filing 2025: Only 2 Days Left to File Income Tax Returns – Will the Government Extend the Deadline?

The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 (assessment year 2025-26) is fast approaching. Taxpayers who do not require a tax audit have only until 15 September 2025 to file their returns. Despite this, millions of individuals are yet to complete the process, leading to rising concerns and demands for an extension.

Deadline Pressure – Why Taxpayers Are Worried

Initially, the due date to file ITR was 31 July 2025, but the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) extended it to 15 September 2025 due to delays in updating ITR forms and Excel utilities.

Now, with just two days left, several taxpayers and chartered accountants (CAs) are once again requesting an extension. Many complain about frequent technical glitches on the e-filing portal, which is slowing down the process. However, so far, the government has made no announcement about pushing the deadline further.

Who Needs to File by 15 September 2025?

The 15 September deadline applies to individuals and entities not subject to tax audit. This includes:

• Salaried employees

• Pensioners

• Individuals earning rental income

• Those with capital gains

• Small businesses and professionals filing under presumptive taxation schemes (Sections 44AD, 44ADA, 44AE)

In short, taxpayers filing through ITR Forms 1 to 4 fall under this category and must complete their returns before the deadline.

How Many ITRs Have Been Filed So Far?

According to the Income Tax Department, as of 11 September 2025, around 5.47 crore ITRs have been filed. This is significantly lower than the previous assessment year (AY 2024-25), when over 7.28 crore returns were submitted.

The gap suggests that a large number of taxpayers are yet to file, and with limited time left, pressure is mounting on the system.

Will the Government Extend the Deadline Again?

Despite repeated appeals from taxpayers and professionals, the government has not indicated any plan to extend the date. In fact, in a press release issued on 7 September, the Finance Ministry reiterated that the last date to file ITR remains 15 September 2025.

This means taxpayers should not rely on a possible extension and should instead complete the filing process as soon as possible.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Missing the deadline doesn’t mean losing the chance to file completely, but it does come at a cost.

• Taxpayers can still file a belated return until 31 December 2025, but with penalties.

• A late fee of ₹5,000 will apply.

• For taxpayers with annual income below ₹5 lakh, the penalty is limited to ₹1,000.

• Additionally, interest at 1% per month will be charged on any pending tax liability.

Key Takeaway for Taxpayers

• Do not wait until the last day – the e-filing portal often experiences slowdowns due to heavy traffic near deadlines.

• Gather all necessary documents like Form 16, investment proofs, and TDS certificates before filing.

• If applicable, seek professional assistance from a CA to avoid errors in filing.

Conclusion

With the 15 September 2025 deadline just around the corner, taxpayers must act quickly. While calls for extending the date are growing, the government has made it clear that there are no current plans to provide extra time.

Filing your ITR on time not only helps avoid penalties and interest but also ensures a faster refund and keeps you safe from tax notices.