ITR:How to File a Belated Return, Penalty Details, and Key Rules Explained
If you couldn’t file your Income Tax Return (ITR) on time, don’t panic — the Income Tax Department still allows you to stay compliant by filing a belated return. While you can still submit your return until 31 december 2025, there are some penalties and restrictions you should know about. Here’s a simple guide:1. What Is a Belated Return?A belated return is simply an ITR filed after the due date but before the end of the relevant assessment year. For AY 2025–26, you can file your belated return anytime until 31 december 2025.2. How to File a Belated Return OnlineFiling a belated return is almost the same as a regular return.Step 1: Visit the official e-filing portal – incometax.gov.in.Step 2: Log in using your PAN and password.Step 3: Choose the appropriate ITR form (ITR-1, ITR-2, etc.).Step 4: Select ‘Return filed under Section 139(4)’ (Belated Return).Step 5: Fill in details, verify, and submit.3. Penalty for Filing LateFiling after the deadline attracts a late fee under Section 234F:₹5,000 if your total income is above ₹5 lakh.₹1,000 if your income is below ₹5 lakh.Additionally, interest under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C will apply for any unpaid tax.4. Key Limitations of a Belated ReturnWhen you file late, you lose some benefits:No chance to carry forward certain losses (like business or capital losses).Reduced time for revisions – you can revise a belated return only up to 31 december 2025.Higher chances of interest and penalty charges if tax liability was pending.5. Why You Should Still FileEven with penalties, filing a belated return is better than not filing at all. Non-filing can lead to:Notices from the IT departmentDifficulty in getting loans or visasHigher penalties and legal consequences6. Pro Tip – Avoid This Situation Next YearTo avoid last-minute stress, start your tax planning early and file well before the deadline. Enable email/SMS reminders from the IT portal so you don’t miss important dates.
Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.