It’s that time of year again—Income Tax Return (ITR) filing season! Whether you’re a salaried professional, freelancer, or small business owner, filing your return for the Assessment Year (AY) 2025–26 is not just a legal duty—it’s an opportunity to take control of your finances, claim deductions, and avoid penalties.
In this blog, we break down the latest rules, deadlines, and smart tips to make filing your ITR seamless and stress-free.
📅 What’s New in AY 2025-26?
Every year, the tax filing process sees updates. Here’s what you should know this time around:
✅ Updated ITR Forms: The CBDT has released revised ITR forms for FY 2024–25 (AY 2025–26). Choose the right form based on your income type.
✅ Extended Section 80C Benefits: Continue to claim deductions up to ₹1.5 lakh under investments like PPF, ELSS, and LIC.
✅ New Tax Regime Update: The new tax regime remains the default unless you opt for the old regime. Use the income tax calculator to compare and decide.
✅ Higher TCS Thresholds: If you’ve spent on foreign travel or overseas education, updated TCS (Tax Collected at Source) rules may apply.
🧾 Step-by-Step: How to File Your ITR
Here’s how to file your Income Tax Return online in 2025:
Step 1: Collect Your Documents
Gather:
- Form 16 (for salaried employees)
- Form 26AS & AIS (Annual Information Statement)
- Interest certificates from banks
- Investment proof (ELSS, PF, insurance, etc.)
- Rent receipts, if claiming HRA
Step 2: Choose the Right ITR Form
- ITR-1 (Sahaj): Income up to ₹50L (salary, pension, one house property)
- ITR-2: For capital gains or multiple properties
- ITR-3/4: For professionals or business income
Step 3: Log in to the e-Filing Portal
Visit https://incometax.gov.in
Register/login using PAN.
Step 4: Pre-fill, Verify, and Fill Details
Most info will be auto-filled. Check carefully for:
- Salary
- Bank interest
- Capital gains
- Deductions
Step 5: Claim Deductions
Don’t miss deductions under:
- 80C (Investments)
- 80D (Medical insurance)
- 80E (Education loan)
- 80G (Donations)
Step 6: Choose Tax Regime
Use a regime comparison tool to decide between old and new regimes based on your deductions and income type.
Step 7: Submit and E-Verify
After filing, e-verify within 30 days using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or offline methods.
⏳ ITR Filing Deadline for AY 2025-26
- Individual (Non-Audit): July 31, 2025
- With Audit: October 31, 2025
⚠️ Late filing may attract penalties up to ₹5,000 plus interest under Section 234F.
💡 Pro Tips to Maximize Your Refund
- Track all interest income—even from savings accounts
- Claim HRA properly (include rent receipts)
- Include all freelance or gig economy income
- Disclose foreign assets if applicable
- Declare crypto and stock trades if any
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I file ITR if my income is below the taxable limit?
Yes. Filing helps with loan approvals, visa processing, and refunds for TDS.
Q: Is it mandatory to link PAN and Aadhaar?
Yes. PANs not linked with Aadhaar will become inoperative.
Q: What if I miss the deadline?
You can file a belated return by Dec 31, 2025—but with a penalty and limited refund eligibility.