New Delhi, Aug 2 (NVI) The Income Tax Department has said more than 5.9 crore Income Tax Returns (ITRs) were filed for Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27 by the end of July 31.
This was the last date for individuals filing ITR-1 and ITR-2 who are not required to get their accounts audited to submit returns without incurring interest or a late-filing fee.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) did not extend the deadline despite expectations from some taxpayers following technical glitches reported on the income tax e-filing portal in the days leading up to the due date.
Government data shows a marginal decline in ITR-1 filings compared with last year. ITR-1 filings stood at 3.15 crore, against 3.3 crore in the previous assessment year, while ITR-2 filings were broadly in line with last year’s levels.
The moderation in ITR-1 filings partly reflects the higher income tax exemption threshold of up to Rs 12 lakh under the new tax regime, reducing the need for some taxpayers to file returns.
With ITR-3 and ITR-4 due by 31 August, the overall filing numbers are expected to increase further in the coming weeks. Taxpayers who missed the 31 July deadline can still file a belated return.
However, they may be required to pay a late fee of up to Rs 5,000, depending on the applicable provisions.
Taxpayers with business income who are not required to undergo a tax audit have until August 31 to file their returns.
Those whose accounts are subject to a tax audit can file their returns by October 31.
ITR-1, also known as Sahaj, is a simplified return form for resident individuals with annual income of up to Rs 50 lakh from salary, one house property and agricultural income of up to Rs 5,000. It is the most commonly used return form among small and medium taxpayers.
ITR-2 applies to individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) that do not earn income from business or profession but have income from sources such as capital gains.
For comparison, more than 7.3 crore income tax returns were filed for AY 2025-26 by 16 September, 2025, the extended deadline for that assessment year. (NVI)
