How Many ITR Filing Deadline Extensions Has the Income Tax Department Offered in the Past 10 Years?

The Income Tax Return (ITR) filing season is in full swing, and many taxpayers are rushing to complete their returns before the due date. While some hope for deadline extensions, it’s important to understand the history and reasons behind past extensions. 

How Many Times Has the ITR Filing Deadline Been Extended? 

In the last 5–10 years, three major ITR deadline extensions have taken place. These were mostly during: 

1. FY 2019–20
2. FY 2020–21
3. FY 2024–25 

Each extension was caused by either COVID-related disruptions or technical/system updates. 

Major Extensions During the COVID-19 Pandemic 

One of the most notable periods of ITR extensions was during the COVID-19 pandemic: 

FY 2019–20 (AY 2020–21) 

• Original due date: July 31, 2020
• Initial extension: Moved to November 30, 2020
• Further extensions:
• Non-audit taxpayers: December 31, 2020
• Audit/international cases: January 31, 2021
• Final deadlines:
• Non-audit taxpayers: January 10, 2021
• Audit cases: February 15, 2021
• Audit reports: January 15, 2021 

These extensions were given due to the impact of COVID-19 and challenges faced by taxpayers and professionals. 

ITR Filing Deadline was Extended Due to Technical Issues in FY 2020–21 (AY 2021–22) 

For the following year, there were more delays, but this time due to technical issues with the new income tax portal. As a result, the due date was extended from July 31, 2021, to December 31, 2021. 

Will the ITR Filing Deadline be Extended for AY 2025–26? 

This year, the ITR filing deadline for non-audit cases was originally set for July 31, 2025. However, the government extended it to September 15, 2025. The reason for this extension was the delay in releasing updated ITR forms and some technical system upgrades. 

Taxpayers are advised not to expect another extension and to file their returns as early as possible to avoid penalties. 

Read more: ITR Filing FY2025: Under-reporting High-value Transactions? Here’s What It Could Cost You! 

Conclusion 

While the government has extended ITR deadlines in the past, it has mostly done so during extraordinary situations like the pandemic or system issues. Taxpayers should not rely on future extensions and must aim to file their returns on time. Delays can lead to penalties, interest, and unnecessary stress. Filing early is always the safer option. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.