Filing Your ITR for FY25? Here’s the Expected Deadline and Refund Timeline

The filing window for Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024–25 (assessment year 2025–26) is expected to open shortly on the official Income Tax Department website. While the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has not yet made an official announcement, historical trends suggest that e-filing usually commences in April.

During this period, various ITR forms are notified and made available for taxpayers across different income categories. These forms cater to salaried individuals, self-employed professionals, business owners, and others — each with specific compliance requirements.

What is the deadline to file ITR for FY25?

For the financial year 2023–24, the last date to file an income tax return without any late fees was July 31, 2024. A similar deadline is likely for FY24–25, with July 31, 2025, expected to be the initial cutoff for timely submissions.

Taxpayers who miss the deadline may still file a belated return until December 31, 2025, although this is usually subject to late fees and interest. The exact dates will be confirmed in due course via official circulars issued by the Income Tax Department.

When can you expect to receive your I-T refund?

The refund process has been significantly streamlined in recent years. For most taxpayers, refunds are processed within 7 to 20 days from the date of successful verification of the return. However, the speed of the refund depends on several factors, including:

• Accuracy of the information submitted

• Timely verification of the ITR using Aadhaar OTP or other authorised modes

• Pre-validation and PAN linkage of the bank account selected for receiving refunds

Any mismatch in income details, tax credits, or incorrect bank details can cause delays in refund processing.

What documents should be kept ready?

To ensure a smooth filing and refund process, taxpayers are advised to keep the following documents and information ready in advance:

• PAN and Aadhaar card

• Form 16 issued by employers

• Salary slips and interest certificates

• Capital gains statements (if applicable)

• Rental income details and any other income proofs

• Bank account details for refund purposes

Proper documentation helps in accurate self-assessment and reduces the risk of scrutiny or errors in processing.

Read More: Documents required for ITR Filing

Conclusion

The window to file income tax returns for FY25 is expected to open soon, with the tentative deadline being July 31, 2025. Refunds are generally processed within 20 days if all details are correctly filed and verified. Keeping essential documents ready in advance can make the entire process more efficient and stress-free.

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