Last chance to claim your income tax refunds: File belated returns by December 31

As the year draws to a close, December 31 isn’t just about wrapping up work and celebrating the holidays; it’s also a critical date for taxpayers who haven’t yet filed their Income Tax Returns (ITRs). For those who missed the original deadline, this day marks the final opportunity to submit belated or revised returns for 2024–25 and claim any outstanding refunds.

"Taxpayers must file both belated and revised ITRs by 31 December 2025. After this date, only ITR-U can be filed, which comes with several restrictions. This is also the last opportunity to claim an income tax refund for belated filers and the final chance to revise a return without penalties or additional consequences," said CA Abhishek Soni, CEO & Co-founder, Tax2win.

"Income Tax Return for the year coming to an end can be filed till December 31, this is the deadline for taxpayers to ask for any refunds from the preceding financial year," said CA Siddharth Maurya, Founder & Managing Director, Vibhavangal Anukulakara Pvt. Ltd.

"A timely move secures adherence to the tax authorities' regulations and moreover, makes it easier for you to keep a good tax record. This applies to salaried professionals as well as small business owners who have up to December 31 submission of a belated return as their group insurance against refusal of claiming and refund, minimizing taxpayers’ notices, and fiscally keeping the new year compliant and financially sound," said Shashi Bhushan, Chairman of the Board, Stellar Innovations.