We get this question from clients almost every year after 31 July, so the TAXAJ team is answering it here for everyone.
A salaried taxpayer did not file the income tax return for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) by the 31 July 2026 due date. Can the return still be filed, and what will it cost?
Yes. You can still file a belated return for AY 2026-27 up to 31 December 2026. What it costs:
- Late fee under section 234F: ₹5,000, or ₹1,000 if total income is ₹5 lakh or less. No fee if gross total income is below the basic exemption limit.
- Interest under section 234A: 1% a month on any tax still unpaid, from 1 August until the return is filed.
- Losses: business and capital losses cannot be carried forward from a late return. Loss from house property and unabsorbed depreciation are the exceptions.
- Refunds still come, just later.
If 31 December also passes, an updated return (ITR-U) can be filed within 48 months from the end of the assessment year, with additional tax that rises the later you file. ITR-U cannot be used to claim or increase a refund, so if tax is refundable to you, file the belated return before 31 December.
All dates are in our guide to ITR due dates for AY 2026-27. If you want us to file it, see ITR filing by TAXAJ.