- By Aditya Pratap Singh
- Fri, 31 Jul 2026 10:27 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
- ITR filing deadline for most taxpayers is July 31.
- The Income Tax Department confirms no extension for the deadline
- Missing the deadline leads to late fees and other penalties.
For most salaried individuals and taxpayers who file ITR-1 and ITR-2, the deadline to file an income tax return (ITR) is today, July 31. Meanwhile, if you are among those thinking the deadline might be extended, you should be aware that the income tax department has not yet made any such announcement.
To date, the Income Tax Department has maintained that July 31, 2026, remains the final deadline for most individual taxpayers to file their ITR.
Despite widespread social media speculation regarding a possible postponement, no officials have stated a deadline or announced an extension update. Instead, officials encouraged taxpayers to file their tax return as soon as possible to avoid technical issues or last-minute rushes.
Missing Deadline
Late fees between RS 1,000 and Rs 5,000, depending on annual income.
Accumulated interest on any unpaid tax amounts.
Inability to carry forward certain financial losses to future years.
Significant delays in receiving tax refunds.
Meanwhile, many taxpayers are confused about who must file their income tax return by the July 31 deadline and who can file till August 31.
Earlier, August 31 did not exist as a deadline; however, the Union Budget 2026 introduced a new August 31 deadline for non-audit business taxpayers and trusts, while keeping the due date the same as July 31 for salaried individuals.
Who is the ITR July 31 deadline for?
Taxpayers eligible to file ITR-1 and ITR-2 will have to submit their income tax returns by July 31--the deadline.
ITR Form 1 (Sahaj)- It is a simple form that is suitable for a large number of small and medium taxpayers.
Individuals with annual income up to Rs 50 lakh and income from salary, one house property, and farming income up to Rs 5,000 per annum can file Sahaj.
ITR-2- The form should be filed by individuals and HUFs who do not have income from profits and gains of their business or profession, but have income from capital gains.
Also Read: Unlock Financial Advantages: Why Non-Taxpayers Must File Income Tax Returns Annually
Who can file ITR by August 31?
Taxpayers whose business or professional income is not subject to tax audit have until August 31st to file their returns.
These taxpayers use ITR-3 or ITR-4, depending on the nature of their income and eligibility.
Meanwhile, taxpayers whose accounts are subject to audit can file ITRs until October 31st. The tax audit deadline is September 30th.