Filing ITR online for the first time? Here’s the easiest way to do it

The Income Tax Department has extended the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25, giving taxpayers additional time to complete the process. The earlier deadline of July 31, 2025, has now been pushed to September 15, 2025, according to a statement issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on Monday.

The extension is provided due to significant revisions to ITR forms, ongoing system development requirements, and delays in the reflection of TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) credits, the CBDT explained. “This extension will provide more time… ensuring a smoother and more accurate filing experience for everyone. Formal notification will follow,” the board said.

Taxpayers who have not yet filed their returns are advised to utilise this extended window to avoid last-minute rush and penalties.

How to file your ITR for FY 2024–25

Step 1: Log in to the e-filing portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in

Step 2: Use your PAN-linked user ID and password. Ensure PAN is active and linked with Aadhaar.

Step 3: Next, go to e-File > Income Tax Returns > File Income Tax Return

Step 4: Now, select Assessment Year: 2025-26 and choose Online Mode.

Step 5: Select your filing status- Individual/HUF/Others and proceed. 

Step 6: Choose the applicable ITR form and enter the required details like income, deductions, and tax details. Confirm all sections before proceeding.

Step 7: If tax is due, use the e-pay Tax service and once done, return to complete the filing.

Step 8: Next, preview and submit. If no tax is due or a refund is applicable, you can directly preview and submit.

Step 9. Confirm the summary of your returns, validate all the details submitted by you and provide your bank account information. 

Step 10: Now, verify your return within the time period of 30 days by using Aadhaar OTP, electronic verification code (EVC), or Net Banking. This is the last and most crucial step, as failing to do so may lead to cancellation of ITR filing. 

Once the ITR e-filing is done, you can even download a copy of it. Here’s how you can do it. 

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How to download the ITR copy

1. Log in to the e-filing portal.
2. Click View Returns/Forms and select Income Tax Returns.
3. Choose the relevant assessment year and click Submit.
4. Click on the ITR-V Acknowledgement Number.
5. Download the PDF of the ITR-V for your records.