Should the due date for filing belated or revised ITRs be extended? Here’s what experts say

With the deadline for filing belated and revised Income Tax Returns (ITRs) approaching, the debate over a possible extension has once again gained momentum. While taxpayers and professionals cite technical issues and last-minute pressures, experts believe the likelihood of any deadline extension remains slim.

Tax professionals argue that repeated portal glitches and the intense last-minute rush before deadlines have made compliance challenging for many taxpayers. According to them, extending the timeline for filing belated and revised ITRs would improve compliance and reduce penalties for honest taxpayers.

“A limited buffer beyond the statutory deadline allows taxpayers to reconcile data mismatches, correct errors, and claim accurate refunds without being burdened by unnecessary late fees,” said Siddharth Maurya, Founder and Managing Director of Vibhavangal Anukulakara Pvt. Ltd. Several chartered accountants share this view, stating that genuine errors often come to light only after filing the original return.

31 December 2025 tax deadline

Filing of belated/revised return of income for the assessment year 2025-26 for all assessee (provided assessment has not been completed before December 31, 2025).

Earlier last week, in a statement, the income tax department said more than 15 lakh ITRs have already been revised for the current assessment year, AY 2025-26.

Also, over 21 lakh taxpayers have updated their income tax returns during the current fiscal and paid ₹2,500 crore in taxes.