Last Date for Revised and Updated Returns: What to Know
- PRITI SIRDESHMUKH
- 13 hours ago
- 9 min read
The Income Tax Department has set clear deadlines for filing original, revised, belated, and updated returns. For FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26), the due date for non-audit taxpayers was extended to 16th September 2025. Taxpayers who missed this deadline can still file belated or revised returns until 31st December 2025. Beyond this, the updated return option (ITR-U) allows corrections or delayed filing up to four years later, but with additional costs. Understanding these timelines is crucial to avoid penalties and interest, while platforms like TaxBuddy make the process smoother with automated checks and expert guidance.
Table of Contents
Normal and Belated Return Filing Deadlines
For the financial year 2024-25 (assessment year 2025-26), the last date for filing the original income tax return for individuals and non-audit taxpayers was extended to 16th September 2025. This extension came as a relief due to technical glitches on the income tax portal. If this due date is missed, a belated return can still be filed until 31st December 2025. Belated returns allow taxpayers to fulfill their compliance, but they come with late filing fees under Section 234F and interest charges on any unpaid taxes under Section 234A. Filing on time is always recommended, but the belated return option ensures taxpayers are not left without a filing opportunity.
Last Date for Revised Returns under Section 139(5)
A revised return allows taxpayers to correct mistakes or omissions in the originally filed return. Errors such as incorrect income details, missed deductions, or inaccurate TDS claims can be rectified by filing a revised return. For AY 2025-26, the last date to submit a revised return is also 31st December 2025. Once this deadline passes, corrections cannot be made through a revised return and must instead be handled through the updated return mechanism. This makes it essential to carefully review the filed return before the deadline.
Updated Returns (ITR-U) and Their Deadlines
Introduced in FY 2022-23, the updated return or ITR-U provides an extended window for taxpayers to rectify their filings or submit returns if they missed previous deadlines. An updated return can be filed up to 48 months from the end of the relevant assessment year. For AY 2025-26, this means taxpayers can file until 31st March 2030. However, updated returns are not free of cost. Filing in the second year attracts an additional tax of 25%, in the third year 50%, and in later years even higher. It is a valuable opportunity for those who missed earlier deadlines, but it should be used wisely due to the added tax liability.
Penalties and Interest on Late Filing
Missing the due date for filing has financial consequences. A late fee of up to ₹5,000 is imposed under Section 234F if returns are filed after the due date. For taxpayers with income below ₹5 lakh, this penalty is limited to ₹1,000. In addition, interest at 1% per month is levied under Section 234A on any unpaid tax amount. When filing an updated return, the additional tax percentage significantly increases the cost of late compliance. These provisions highlight why taxpayers must stay vigilant about deadlines and ensure timely filing.
Special Deadlines for Audit and Transfer Pricing Cases
Taxpayers whose accounts require audits are given additional time to comply. For FY 2024-25, the due date for filing audit reports and income tax returns in audit cases is 31st October 2025. Where international transactions or specified domestic transactions are involved, requiring transfer pricing documentation, the deadline extends further to 30th November 2025. These extended timelines acknowledge the additional complexity in such filings while still enforcing strict compliance.
Summary Table of Due Dates for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)
Category | Due Date |
Original Return (Non-Audit) | 16th September 2025 |
Belated Return & Revised Return | 31st December 2025 |
Audit Cases & Audit Report | 31st October 2025 |
International/Specified Domestic Transactions | 30th November 2025 |
Updated Return (ITR-U) | 31st March 2030 |
Key Differences Between Revised, Belated, and Updated Returns
A belated return is filed when a taxpayer misses the original due date for filing the income tax return but still wants to remain compliant. For the financial year 2024-25, the original due date for non-audit taxpayers was 16th September 2025. If this deadline is missed, the law provides an additional window to file the return as a belated return up to 31st December 2025. While this option helps avoid non-compliance, it comes with late filing fees under Section 234F and interest on unpaid taxes. Refunds, if any, may also get delayed compared to filing within the original deadline.
A revised return is used when the taxpayer has already filed a return, either before the due date or as a belated return, but later realises that some information was reported incorrectly or a deduction was missed. In such cases, the law allows the taxpayer to revise the return to provide the correct details. For AY 2025-26, the last date to file a revised return is also 31st December 2025. This makes it essential for taxpayers to review their returns carefully and take corrective action before this deadline. Once the date passes, corrections through a revised return are no longer possible.
An updated return, also called ITR-U, was introduced to provide an extended chance for taxpayers to correct or file returns even after the belated and revised return deadlines have expired. Unlike revised or belated returns, an updated return can be filed within four years from the end of the relevant assessment year. For example, for AY 2025-26, the updated return can be filed until 31st March 2030. However, this facility is not free of cost. Additional tax is levied, starting at 25 per cent of the tax and interest due if filed in the second year, and rising to 50 per cent or more in later years. Updated returns also come with restrictions, as they cannot be filed in cases where scrutiny notices are already issued or prosecution is initiated.
Understanding the distinctions between these three return types is important for making the right choice. Belated returns provide an immediate backup if the original deadline is missed, revised returns offer a way to correct mistakes, and updated returns serve as a last resort for compliance with higher costs. Together, these provisions ensure taxpayers have multiple opportunities to stay compliant, but timely action always reduces penalties and additional tax burdens.
Why Tracking Deadlines Matters for Taxpayers
Tax deadlines are more than just compliance dates. Missing them can lead to financial penalties, blocked refunds, or additional scrutiny from the Income Tax Department. For individuals with complex income structures—such as capital gains, business income, or foreign assets—the risk of errors increases, making timely corrections essential. Tracking deadlines also allows taxpayers to plan tax payments efficiently and avoid the burden of interest charges.
How TaxBuddy Simplifies Filing Revised and Updated Returns
TaxBuddy offers a streamlined way to file revised and updated returns with confidence. Its AI-driven platform automatically checks for common errors, mismatches in TDS, and missed deductions. Taxpayers can choose between self-filing or expert-assisted filing, where certified professionals handle complex scenarios such as capital gains, F&O, or crypto taxation. The platform also ensures compliance with deadlines by sending reminders and updates. By using TaxBuddy, taxpayers can minimize the chances of errors and reduce the stress associated with last-minute filings.
Conclusion
Deadlines for filing revised, belated, and updated returns serve as lifelines for taxpayers who need corrections or additional time. While the government provides extended opportunities, penalties and interest make timely filing the smarter choice. Tools like TaxBuddy ensure accuracy and peace of mind by combining AI automation with expert assistance. For anyone looking for assistance in tax filing, it is highly recommended to download the TaxBuddy mobile app for a simplified, secure, and hassle-free experience.
FAQs
Q1. Does TaxBuddy offer both self-filing and expert-assisted plans for ITR filing, or only expert-assisted options?
TaxBuddy provides both options to meet different needs. The self-filing plan is designed for taxpayers who are comfortable filing their own return. It allows them to upload key documents such as Form 16, bank statements, and TDS certificates, while the platform’s AI system automatically extracts details and fills in relevant fields. On the other hand, the expert-assisted plan connects taxpayers with trained professionals who prepare, review, and file the return. This option is particularly helpful for individuals with multiple income sources, capital gains, or complex cases that require a professional’s review.
Q2. Which is the best site to file ITR?
While the official Income Tax Department portal is the statutory platform for e-filing, private platforms often provide a more user-friendly experience. Among them, TaxBuddy stands out for its AI-driven filing process, error detection, and real-time TDS matching. It also offers the flexibility of choosing between self-filing and expert-assisted filing, ensuring that both simple and complex returns are handled smoothly. Its post-filing support for handling notices further strengthens its reliability.
Q3. Where to file an income tax return?
Income tax returns can be filed directly on the government’s e-filing portal at incometax.gov.in. Alternatively, taxpayers can use authorized platforms such as TaxBuddy, which simplify the process by automating data entry, checking for errors, and providing professional support. Many taxpayers prefer using such platforms because they reduce the chances of mistakes and save time, especially when handling deductions, exemptions, or complex income details.
Q4. What is the last date to file a revised return for FY 2024-25?
The last date for filing a revised return for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) is 31st December 2025. A revised return can only be filed if the taxpayer had submitted an original or belated return before the deadline. Any errors or omissions, such as wrong bank details, incorrect income disclosure, or missed deductions, can be corrected before this date. Once the deadline passes, the revised return option is no longer available.
Q5. Can an ITR be filed after the belated return deadline?
Yes, if the 31st December deadline for belated or revised returns is missed, taxpayers still have the option of filing an updated return under Section 139(8A). This provision, introduced recently, allows returns to be filed within four years from the end of the relevant assessment year. However, filing under this option comes at a higher cost, as additional tax and penalties must be paid depending on how late the return is filed.
Q6. What penalties apply for late filing of returns?
Late filing attracts two types of consequences: a fixed penalty and interest charges. A fee of up to ₹5,000 is levied under Section 234F if the return is filed after the due date. For taxpayers with total income below ₹5 lakh, the penalty is limited to ₹1,000. Additionally, interest under Section 234A is charged at 1% per month on any unpaid tax amount from the original due date until the filing date. These costs make it important to file on time wherever possible.
Q7. Can a revised return be filed after 31st December 2025?
No, a revised return cannot be filed after 31st December 2025 for AY 2025-26. After this date, taxpayers who wish to correct mistakes or omissions must use the updated return option (ITR-U). The updated return can be filed within four years, but it involves higher tax outgo and is restricted in certain cases, such as where scrutiny notices are already issued.
Q8. How long can updated returns be filed for AY 2025-26?
For AY 2025-26, updated returns can be filed until 31st March 2030. This gives taxpayers a four-year extended window to comply if they missed filing earlier or discovered omissions. However, the later the updated return is filed, the higher the additional tax liability. Filing in the second year attracts a 25% additional tax, while filing in the third year increases it to 50%. Beyond that, the percentage rises further.
Q9. Who cannot file an updated return?
Certain restrictions apply to filing updated returns. Taxpayers who are already facing reassessment proceedings, such as notices under Section 148A, cannot file an ITR-U. Similarly, those involved in cases of income concealment or where prosecution is initiated are barred from using this facility. This ensures that the provision is used for genuine compliance corrections rather than for evading scrutiny.
Q10. Do audit cases have different filing deadlines?
Yes, audit cases follow a separate schedule due to the detailed reporting requirements. For FY 2024-25, the deadline for filing audit reports and income tax returns for taxpayers requiring audit is 31st October 2025. For cases involving international or specified domestic transactions that require transfer pricing documentation, the due date is 30th November 2025. These extensions provide sufficient time for professionals to complete mandatory audits.
Q11. What is the difference between a revised return and an updated return?
A revised return is filed to correct mistakes in an original or belated return and can only be submitted until 31st December of the relevant assessment year. It does not attract additional penalties beyond the original compliance costs. An updated return, on the other hand, is a broader provision that allows taxpayers to file returns even after this deadline. However, it requires payment of additional tax (25% to 70% depending on the year of filing) and cannot be used in cases under scrutiny.
Q12. How does TaxBuddy assist with complex returns like capital gains or crypto?
TaxBuddy’s expert-assisted plans are designed to manage complex income scenarios such as capital gains from property or shares, F&O transactions, or crypto taxation. The platform combines AI-based automation with professional expertise to ensure accurate reporting, proper claim of deductions, and compliance with evolving tax laws. It also provides post-filing support, including handling notices from the Income Tax Department, giving taxpayers complete peace of mind.
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