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The income tax filing deadline for FY2024-25 is September 15. Expert highlights faster refunds but warns that errors or mismatches can still cause delays.
Income Tax Return Filing 2025
Income Tax Filing Deadline: The deadline for income tax filing for FY2024-25 (Assessment year 2025-26) for non-audit taxpayers is approaching, which is on September 15. Taxpayers’ focus now shifts to refunds, which typically days from a few days to a month. Sometimes the refund, however, gets delayed to multiple reasons.
The Income Tax Department has significantly improved its refund processing system, with many taxpayers now receiving refunds within weeks of filing returns. In some cases, refunds are credited just days after submission, a far cry from the lengthy delays of the past. However, experts caution that accuracy in return filing remains critical, as even small errors or mismatches can trigger scrutiny and delay refunds.
Avnish Arora, Executive Director, Direct Tax, Forvis Mazars India, noted that while refund timelines have improved, taxpayers should not overlook compliance basics. “Many taxpayers now receive refunds within a month, and in some instances, refunds are issued just days after filing returns. However, delays still occur when returns are flagged for stricter scrutiny, if there are mismatches between the details in the filed return and records like the AIS or Form 26AS, or due to simple errors such as incorrect bank account information,” he said.
According to Arora, pending assessments or past tax dues can also result in the department offsetting amounts against the current year’s refund. “In case delays occur, remember that the law entitles taxpayers to interest on late refunds under Section 244A, providing a measure of relief in the event of prolonged waiting,” he added.
With incomes becoming more diversified—ranging from salaries to capital gains and other investments—experts stress that choosing the right ITR form and reconciling figures with official records is essential. Arora explained that the Income Tax Department already captures most data through AIS/TIS and Form 26AS, making it vital for taxpayers to ensure their filings match these records.
He advised taxpayers to carefully report all income streams, claim deductions properly, and address discrepancies before filing. Ensuring accuracy, he said, remains the simplest way to avoid notices and ensure quick refunds.
Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst…Read More
Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst… Read More
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