Missed the ITR deadline? Here's what you need to do next

Filing returns after the due date can have repercussions even if there are no pending liabilities

Income Tax Filing (I-T) returns on time is every taxpayer’s responsibility and there are several benefits extended to the individual for the same. On the other hand, filing returns after the due date can have repercussions for the taxpayer even if there are no pending tax liabilities. However, if you have missed the deadline, you can file a belated return.

 

What is a belated return?

A belated IT return can be filed after the due date but before the end of the assessment year. Belated returns have to be filed within one year from the end of the relevant financial year. Hence, if you need to file your return for financial year 2015-16, the assessment year will be 2016-17 and the belated return can be filed by March 31, 2017. Similarly, if you must file your return for financial year 2016-17, you must do so by March 31, 2018 — the end of assessment year 2017-18.

The procedure to file a belated return is the same as Income tax efiling the return within the due date. Log into your e-filing account on the I-T department’s website, select the applicable ITR form and assessment year, and proceed. For example, if you are filing the return for financial year 2015-16, select assessment year 2016-17.

Consequences of filing late returns