ITR Filing Deadline: If you are an income taxpayer, this news may be critical for you. The government has extended the deadline for filing income tax returns that require a tax audit for the financial year 2025-2026 to November 21. This provides relief to business owners and companies that are required to file their returns following a tax audit of their accounts.

Previously, the deadline for filing income tax returns was set for October 31, 2026. Missing this deadline would have resulted in additional costs for taxpayers. Taxpayers should take advantage of this extension by filing their returns promptly, thereby avoiding any last-minute complications.

What is the income tax deadline?
For the assessment year 2026-2027, taxpayers whose accounts require a tax audit now have until November 21, 2026, to file their income tax returns. The tax audit must also be completed by this date. The government’s primary objective in extending this deadline is to provide taxpayers with more time to prepare their returns and compile the necessary documentation.

What is the deadline for submitting the tax audit report?
Along with the extension of the income tax return filing deadline, the deadline for submitting the tax audit report has also been adjusted. According to the information provided, the deadline for submitting the tax audit report was set for October 21, 2026.

Who does this deadline apply to?
This deadline is relevant for taxpayers whose accounts are mandatorily subject to an audit under income tax regulations. This applies to business owners, professionals under audit requirements, companies and firms subject to an audit, and any taxpayers affected by the relevant audit provisions.

“>November 13, 2026

What happens if there is a delay in filing an income tax return?
If a taxpayer fails to file their income tax return by November 21, they may be required to pay additional charges and interest under the applicable rules. This includes a late filing fee. Specifically, a fee of ₹1,000 may be charged if the income is up to ₹5 lakh and ₹5,000 if the income exceeds ₹5 lakh.

How to file an income tax return?
First, visit the official website of the Income Tax Department.
Log in using your PAN and password.
Navigate to the ‘e-file’ section and select the ‘Income Tax Return’ option.
Choose the option to ‘File Income Tax Return’.
Select the correct form for filing your income tax return for the Assessment Year 2026-2027.
Enter the details regarding your income, tax payments, and audit information.
After entering all the information, it is essential to review and verify it.
Finally, ensure that you complete the e-verification of your income tax return.