ITR Due Date Tomorrow AY 2025-26: Last-minute Guide To Help You File ITR On Time

The clock is ticking for taxpayers, as the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing due date, September 15, 2025 for the assessment year 2025–26 is just a day away. A large number of people are yet to file their ITRs, and it is in these moments of hurry that many end up making mistakes.

The government had already extended the deadline once, originally July 31, because of changes in the ITR forms and delays in system readiness. But now there’s little room left.

If you have been holding it off, here’s a quick guide to help you get it done in time.

Gather Your Papers First

Form 16 is the starting point for most salaried employees. You will also need your Form 26AS, the Annual Information Statement (AIS), Permanent Account Number (PAN), Aadhaar (linked with PAN), and proofs of any tax-saving investments (if you are filing ITR under the Old Tax Regime). If you are servicing a home loan, get the interest certificate. Insurance premium receipts, donation details, and capital gain statements should also be on hand.

Recently, the Income Tax Department has increased the requirement of filing ITRs. For instance, taxpayers must also put in a policy number when claiming exemptions for health insurance or medical expenses paid for parent’s healthcare.

Pick The Right ITR Form

Using the wrong form is one of the most common mistakes. ITR-1 (Sahaj) is for salaried taxpayers with income up to Rs 50 lakh. ITR-2 applies if you have capital gains or more than one house property. Freelancers and self-employed individuals usually fall under ITR-3. ITR-4 is for those with presumptive income, while partnerships, LLPs, and firms must file their return using ITR-5.

Don’t Skip Checking Form 26AS, AIS

Both these statements reflect your income and taxes paid. Tax experts caution that even small mismatches can lead to notices. AIS in particular gives a broader view of your financial transactions, interest earned, securities traded, or even high-value spends. It is best to take a few minutes to cross-check them.

Report Everything That’s Taxable

Interest on savings accounts, rent received, capital gains, all these need to be declared. Leaving out even small amounts can cause issues later.

Claim Deductions Carefully

If you are under the new tax regime, there are not many deductions available, but things like employer’s NPS contribution and housing loan interest for let-out properties are still available. In the old regime, deductions under Chapter VI-A, such as health insurance premiums, education loan interest, donations, and others remain relevant.

Check Your Bank Details

Refunds are credited directly to your account, so double-check that your account number and IFSC are correct in the e-filing portal.

File And Verify

Once you submit your return online, it must be e-verified within 30 days. This can be done via Aadhaar OTP, Netbanking, or an Electronic Verification Code. If you miss this step, your return will be treated as not filed.

Know The Late Penalty

If you miss the September 15 deadline, you can still file your return, but with a fine. A late return attracts a penalty of up to Rs 5,000 if your income is above Rs 5 lakh, and Rs 1,000 if it’s below that level.