The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 has been extended to September 15, 2025, as announced by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on May 27, 2025. Normally, the due date for ITR filing is July 31, but this year, the deadline has been pushed forward due to significant changes in ITR forms and pending utility releases for online return filing.
Why the Deadline Was Extended
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The Income Tax Department has not yet released the online return filing utilities for the updated ITR forms.
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Several modifications have been made to the ITR forms, requiring additional time for taxpayers to comply.
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The extension provides relief to salaried individuals waiting for Form 16 from their employers.
Form 16: Why It’s Crucial for ITR Filing
Form 16 is a must-have document for salaried taxpayers as it contains:
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Total salary income for the financial year.
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Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) details, showing how much tax was deducted by the employer.
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Tax-saving investment declarations (if applicable under the old tax regime).
Employers issue Form 16 after filing their e-TDS returns with the Income Tax Department.
When Will You Get Your Form 16?
As per tax rules:
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Employers must deposit TDS for January-March by March 31.
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They must file e-TDS returns and issue Form 16 within 15 days after filing.
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Expected deadline: Most companies will issue Form 16 by June 15, 2025.
Key Takeaways for Taxpayers
✅ New ITR Deadline: September 15, 2025 (extended from July 31).
✅ Form 16 Expected By: June 15, 2025 (for salaried employees).
✅ Reason for Extension: ITR form changes & pending utility updates.
Fact Check
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CBDT Official Notification: Confirmed on May 27, 2025.
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Previous Deadline: July 31 (standard deadline for most taxpayers).
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Form 16 Issuance Rule: Mandatory within 15 days of e-TDS filing.
What Should You Do Now?
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Wait for Form 16 from your employer (expected by June 15).
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Keep all investment proofs ready if claiming deductions.
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File your ITR before September 15, 2025, to avoid penalties.
This extension provides taxpayers with extra time to ensure accurate filings. Stay updated with official CBDT announcements for any further changes.