Know How to File IT Returns After Due Date

Synopsis:

  • File your Income Tax Return (ITR) by July 31 to avoid penalties; late filing is possible using specific forms.
  • A belated ITR can be filed up to three months before the assessment year ends, and the penalties are based on income.
  • A revised ITR allows mistakes to be corrected and can be filed up to three months before the assessment year ends or before completion.
  • To correct or update information, an updated ITR can be filed within 24 months from the end of the assessment year.
  • Accurate filing helps avoid penalties and interest; consulting a tax professional can ensure correctness and efficiency.

Overview:

Income tax is levied on the income earned by individuals, businesses, and other entities. In India, the Income Tax Act 1961 is the governing act that sets out the rules and regulations for the levy, collection, and administration of income tax. All taxpayers who pay income tax are mandated to file an Income Tax Return (ITR). The ITR is a form used to file annual income tax returns with the Income Tax Department. The ITR forms vary depending on the source and value of income, the time of submitting the return, and the tax laws applicable to the taxpayer.

Now that you know what ITR is, it is vital to know when to submit it.

The deadline for filing the ITR is July 31 each year. If you fail to do so, you have to pay penalties and other hassles. However, under certain scenarios, the government allows you to file the ITR even after the due date. But you need specific forms for this.

Learn more about this and how to file your return after the due date.

How to submit your ITR after the due date?

1. Belated ITR

As per Section 139 of the Income Tax Act 1961, all taxpayers must file an income tax return. However, if you miss the deadline of July 31, the government allows you to use a belated ITR form to submit your tax return. You can file a belated ITR up to three months before the end of the assessment year. For example, if you miss the July 31, 2023, deadline, you can still file your ITR using a belated ITR until December 2023. However, be aware that taxpayers face a penalty for missing the original deadline under Section 234F. Here’s how this penalty is charged:

  • Individuals with a gross income of up to ₹ 2.5 lakh are exempt from any penalty
  • Individuals with a gross income of between ₹ 2.5 lakh and ₹ 5 lakh must pay a penalty of ₹ 1,000 
  • Individuals with a gross income of over ₹ 5 lakh must pay a penalty of ₹ 5,000

2. Revised ITR

Sometimes, you may have filed your ITR before the due date. However, there may be an error on your return that needs correction. Here, you can use a revised ITR under Section 139 (5) of the Income Tax Act 1961. Revised ITR is handy in the following cases:

  • If you forget to add some information
  • If you misquote something on your original form, such as your bank details, residential status, etc.
  • If you use the wrong ITR form in your original ITR
  • If the information on the income tax return and Form 26AS do not match
  • And other similar mistakes


You can submit a revised ITR up to three months before the end of the assessment year or before the assessment is completed, whichever comes first. Remember that the revised return serves as the final proof of your income tax return for the year. Therefore, ensure you enter accurate information.

3. Updated ITR

You can use the updated ITR, the third ITR form, to correct mistakes or update other information. According to Section 139(8A) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, you can file an updated ITR within 24 months from the end of the assessment year. Use this form for the following purposes:

  • If the return was not filed previously 
  • If the income is not reported correctly 
  • If you choose the wrong heads of income in your form
  • If there is a reduction of carried forward loss 
  • If there is a reduction of unabsorbed depreciation
  • If there is a reduction of tax credit under Section 115JB/ 115JC 
  • If the rate of tax has been incorrectly levied


The ITR is a legal requirement for all taxpayers. Therefore, filing a return on time is essential to avoid penalties, interest charges, and inconvenience. However, you can use these three forms if you need to file an ITR again or after the due date. It is also worth consulting with a tax professional or an accountant to ensure that your ITR is accurate and complete, making filing your return faster and easier and eliminating errors in the first place.

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​​​​​​​*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. You are recommended to obtain specific professional advice before you take any/refrain from any action. Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws. Please contact your tax consultant for an exact calculation of your tax liabilities.