Why Filing ITR Is Still Not Possible Despite Income Tax Forms Being Out
Introduction
As the financial year 2024–25 concludes, taxpayers across India are preparing to file their Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year (AY) 2025–26. The Income Tax Department has released all seven ITR forms, ranging from ITR-1 to ITR-7, including the newly introduced ITR-U form. However, despite the availability of these forms, taxpayers are currently unable to file their returns. This delay is primarily due to the unavailability of the corresponding e-filing utilities on the official income tax portal.
Understanding the Delay
1. Pending Release of E-Filing Utilities
While the ITR forms have been notified, the essential e-filing utilities required to submit these returns are not yet live on the portal. These utilities, available in formats like Excel, JSON, and online interfaces, are crucial for taxpayers to prepare, validate, and file their returns accurately. Without these tools, neither online filing nor offline uploads are possible.
2. Technical Updates and System Integration
The delay is also attributed to the need for technical updates and system integration. The Income Tax Department is working to incorporate recent changes in tax laws and ensure that the e-filing system aligns with the new requirements. This process involves updating the portal's infrastructure to accommodate the revised forms and ensure seamless processing of returns.
3. Phased Rollout of Utilities
Historically, the release of e-filing utilities follows a phased approach. Simpler forms like ITR-1 and ITR-4 are typically made available first, followed by more complex forms. This staggered rollout ensures that the system can handle the varying complexities of different taxpayer categories efficiently.
Implications for Taxpayers
1. Extended Filing Deadline
Recognizing the delays, the Income Tax Department has extended the ITR filing deadline for individuals from July 31 to September 15, 2025. This extension provides taxpayers with additional time to prepare and submit their returns once the utilities are available .
2. Advisory against Early Filing
Tax experts advise taxpayers to wait until after June 15, 2025, before attempting to file their returns. This recommendation is based on the typical issuance timeline of essential documents like Form 16 and the Statement of Financial Transactions (SFT), which are usually available by mid-June. Filing returns without these documents may lead to discrepancies and potential issues with the Income Tax Department .
Preparing for a Smooth Filing Experience
While waiting for the e-filing utilities to become available, taxpayers can take proactive steps to ensure a seamless filing process:
Conclusion
The current inability to file Income Tax Returns for AY 2025–26, despite the release of the necessary forms, underscores the importance of the supporting e-filing utilities. The Income Tax Department's efforts to update and integrate these utilities are crucial for ensuring accurate and efficient processing of returns. Taxpayers are advised to remain patient, utilize the extended deadline wisely, and prepare in advance to facilitate a smooth filing experience once the utilities are live.