Key Compliance Sections

Section 234F – Late Filing Fee

If your return is filed after the due date, a late filing fee applies. The maximum is ₹5,000, but for income up to ₹5 lakh, the fee is ₹1,000. Belated and revised returns are also subject to this fee.

Section 234A – Interest on Delayed Tax Payment

Interest on unpaid tax is charged at 1% per month from the original or extended due date until payment. Even if you file late but pay immediately, the late filing fee rules still apply.

Sections 234B & 234C – Advance/Self-Assessment Tax

If advance tax is not paid on time, advance tax interest under Sections 234B and 234C may apply. This is independent of the ITR filing date, so timely payment is key.

Belated and Revised Returns

You can file belated or revised returns until 31-Dec-2025. Late fees and interest will apply as described above. Make sure revised returns also meet the same deadlines. Even after delays, interest on unpaid tax continues until full payment.

Practical Takeaway

Check your ITR filing deadlines FY 2024–25 carefully. Always pay any pending taxes before submitting your ITR. Remember that belated and revised returns must follow deadlines to avoid penalties. Filing early reduces stress, avoids mistakes, and ensures compliance while minimizing late fees and interest. Ensure timely payments to avoid advance tax interest.

Frequently Asked Questions on ITR Filing Deadlines

1. What are the ITR filing deadlines for FY 2024–25?

The ITR filing deadlines for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26) depend on the type of taxpayer. Individuals and non-audit entities must file by 31-Jul-2025, with an extended deadline of 15-Sep-2025. Businesses requiring audit, companies, and transfer-pricing cases have later deadlines.

2. What is the late filing fee under Section 234F?

Missing the ITR filing deadline triggers a late filing fee. The maximum is ₹5,000, but for income up to ₹5 lakh, the fee is ₹1,000. Belated and revised returns also fall under this rule.

3. How is interest on unpaid tax calculated under Section 234A?

Interest on unpaid tax is charged at 1% per month from the original or extended due date until payment. Even if you file late but pay immediately, the interest applies.

4. What happens if advance tax is not paid on time?

Failure to pay advance tax can lead to advance tax interest under Sections 234B and 234C. This is independent of the ITR filing date, so timely payment is crucial.

5. Can I file belated or revised returns?

Yes, belated or revised returns can be filed until 31-Dec-2025, but late fees and interest apply. Filing early is always safer.

6. What documents are needed for ITR filing?

For individuals, you need Form 16, bank statements, investment proofs, and details of other income. Businesses and companies may need audit reports and Form 3CEB for transfer-pricing cases.

7. How can I avoid late filing fees?

To avoid late filing fees, file your ITR before the original or extended deadlines and pay any pending taxes on time. Early filing reduces risk of errors and penalties.

8. Does the ITR deadline differ for companies and businesses?

Yes, companies and businesses requiring audit have later deadlines (typically 30-Sep-2025, extended to 31-Oct-2025) compared to individuals and non-audit taxpayers.

9. What is the difference between belated and revised returns?

A belated return is filed after the original or extended deadline. A revised return is submitted to correct mistakes in a previously filed ITR. Both follow the same rules for fees and interest.

10. Can ITR filing deadlines be extended again?

Extensions are occasionally announced by the Income Tax Department. Keep an eye on official notifications, but plan to file within the standard deadlines to avoid last-minute issues.

11. What penalties apply for late filing besides Section 234F?

Apart from the late filing fee, interest under Section 234A on unpaid tax and potential penalties under Sections 234B/234C for advance tax defaults may apply.

12. Where can I check my category for ITR filing?

Check your taxpayer category based on your business type, income source, and audit requirement. This determines which ITR filing deadlines FY 2024–25 apply to you.