The deadline to file an income tax return (ITR) for Assessment Year (AY) 2025–26 has already passed. However, taxpayers who missed the original due date still have one final opportunity to comply by filing a belated return. This option is available only until 31 December 2025, leaving just two weeks for taxpayers to act.
Filing a belated return helps avoid serious consequences such as tax notices, penalties, or future scrutiny. While it involves additional costs like late fees and interest, it is far better than not filing a return at all.
What Is a Belated Return?
A belated return refers to an income tax return filed after the original due date prescribed under Section 139(1) of the Income Tax Act. For most individual taxpayers, the original due date for AY 2025–26 was 16 September 2025.
If a taxpayer fails to file by this date, they can still submit a return under Section 139(4). However, this facility is time-bound and will close on 31 December 2025 or upon completion of assessment, whichever is earlier.
This provision is particularly useful for taxpayers who missed the deadline due to delayed documents, salary revisions, or oversight.
Who Is Eligible to File a Belated Return?
Any taxpayer who was required to file an income tax return but failed to do so before the due date can file a belated return. This applies to salaried individuals, professionals, freelancers, and business owners with taxable income.
However, returns filed in response to a notice issued under Section 142(1) cannot be revised later. Only returns filed under Section 139(1) or Section 139(4) are eligible for revision under Section 139(5).
Difference Between Belated Return and Revised Return
Taxpayers often confuse a belated filing a return with a revised return. The key difference lies in timing and purpose.
A belated filing a return is filed when no return was filed earlier. A revised return, on the other hand, is filed to correct errors or omissions in an already filed return.
Importantly, a belated return can also be revised if mistakes are discovered later, provided the revision is done before 31 December 2025 and before assessment is completed.
Late Fee Applicable on belated filing a return
Filing a belated return attracts a mandatory late filing fee under Section 234F of the Income Tax Act.
If the total income exceeds ₹5 lakh, the late fee is ₹5,000. If the total income does not exceed ₹5 lakh, the late fee is restricted to ₹1,000. This fee is compulsory and cannot be waived under normal circumstances.
Interest Payable on Delayed Filing
In addition to the late fee, taxpayers must also pay interest under Section 234A. Interest is charged at 1% per month or part of a month on the outstanding tax amount.
The interest is calculated from the original due date until the date the belated return is filed. Therefore, the longer the delay, the higher the interest burden.
Disadvantages of Filing a Belated Return
While belated filing a return ensures compliance, it comes with certain drawbacks. Taxpayers cannot carry forward most losses, except loss from house property. Some deductions and exemptions may also be restricted.
Additionally, late filing increases the overall tax liability due to interest and fees. Belated returns may also face a higher risk of scrutiny compared to timely filed returns.
Why Filing a Belated Return Is Still Crucial
Despite these disadvantages, belated filing a return is far better than not filing at all. It helps avoid non-filing penalties, prosecution, and legal complications.
A filed return also serves as valid income proof for loans, visas, and financial applications. Most importantly, it keeps the taxpayer compliant and prepared for any future communication from the Income Tax Department.
With the 31 December 2025 deadline fast approaching, taxpayers who missed the original due date should not delay further. Filing a belated return is the last chance to comply with income tax laws for AY 2025–26.
Although it involves late fees and interest, timely action now can prevent bigger problems later. If you have not yet filed your return, take immediate steps to file your belated return before the window closes permanently.
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