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Income Tax Return Filing: A Complete Guide for FY 2024-25

Illustration showing taxpayers filing income tax returns online with calendar marked July 31, 2025.

The ITR filing deadline for FY 2024-25 is fast approaching. Learn how to file your Income Tax Return correctly, avoid penalties, and ensure compliance.

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Filing your income tax return (ITR) is not just a yearly financial ritual—it’s a legal responsibility. For FY 2024-25, the last date for filing ITR (for taxpayers not requiring an audit) remains July 31, 2025, as per the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).

This guide provides everything you need to know about income tax return filing, deadlines, consequences of late filing, and how to file online using the new income tax portal.


What is Income Tax Return Filing?

Income Tax Return (ITR) is a form used by individuals and entities to declare their income, deductions, exemptions, and taxes paid to the Income Tax Department of India. Filing returns annually is mandatory for individuals and businesses whose income exceeds the basic exemption limit.


Key Deadlines for FY 2024-25

CategoryDeadline
Individuals (non-audit cases)July 31, 2025
Businesses (requiring audit)October 31, 2025
Taxpayers with TP ReportsNovember 30, 2025

The CBDT has not extended the deadline so far.


Who Should File ITR?

You are required to file ITR if:

  • Your gross total income exceeds the basic exemption limit:

    • ₹2.5 lakh (below 60 years)

    • ₹3 lakh (between 60–80 years)

    • ₹5 lakh (above 80 years)

  • You want to claim TDS refunds

  • You own foreign assets or income

  • You’ve deposited ₹1 crore+ in a bank account

  • Your electricity bill exceeds ₹1 lakh annually

  • You’re applying for a loan or visa


Benefits of Timely Filing

  • Avoid penalties under Section 234F

  • Faster tax refunds

  • Ease of loan approvals and visa applications

  • Legal compliance

  • Carry forward of losses


How to File ITR Online (Step-by-Step)

  1. Register/Login at www.incometax.gov.in

  2. Choose “e-File” > Income Tax Return

  3. Select Assessment Year: 2025–26

  4. Choose the correct ITR Form (ITR-1 to ITR-7)

  5. Fill in income details, deductions, and tax paid

  6. Verify details

  7. Submit and e-verify via Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or DSC


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using the wrong ITR form

  • Forgetting to declare interest income

  • Not reporting multiple Form 16s

  • Not linking Aadhaar with PAN

  • Entering incorrect bank details


Penalties for Late Filing

Delay PeriodPenalty
Filed after July 31₹5,000 (₹1,000 for income < ₹5 lakh)
Additional interest1% per month under Section 234A
No carry forward of lossesNot permitted

Call to Action

Don’t wait until the last minute—file your income tax return today and stay compliant. Log in to the income tax portal and submit your ITR now to avoid penalties.


FAQs

1. What is the last date to file ITR for FY 2024-25?

July 31, 2025, for individuals who are not required to get their accounts audited.

2. Can I revise my ITR after filing?

Yes, revised returns can be filed until December 31, 2025.

3. What happens if I miss the deadline?

You will be liable for a late fee and interest and cannot carry forward certain losses.

4. Do salaried employees need to file ITR?

Yes, if your income exceeds the exemption limit or you wish to claim refunds.


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