# Tax Filing Deadlines & Penalties (FY2026-27)

> The key income tax filing deadlines in India and the penalties for missing them, so you avoid late fees and interest.
- **Published**: 2026-08-16
- **Modified**: 2026-08-16
- **Category**: tax-planning
- **URL**: https://www.tldr.money/articles/tax-planning/tax-filing-deadlines-fy2026-27

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Start with the full [tax planning in India](/tax-planning) guide, then track the dates here. Deadlines shift occasionally and can be extended, so always confirm the current-year dates on the official portal before relying on them.

## Why deadlines matter

Filing late is not just about a fee. A missed deadline can mean interest on unpaid tax, a late-filing charge, and the loss of certain benefits such as carrying forward some losses. Planning around the dates keeps more money with you.

## The usual filing dates

For a typical financial year, the common due dates are:

- **Non-audit individuals (most salaried filers):** usually 31 July following the end of the financial year.
- **Taxpayers requiring an audit (many businesses):** usually 31 October, with the audit report due earlier.
- **Belated or revised returns:** usually up to 31 December of the assessment year, subject to change.

Advance tax also has quarterly installment dates through the year for those liable; see the [advance tax angle](/tools/advance-tax-calculator).

These are the customary dates. The department can and sometimes does extend them, so verify current-year deadlines before you file.

## Penalties and costs of filing late

- **Late-filing fee** under the relevant section, higher for larger incomes and lower for small incomes below a threshold.
- **Interest on unpaid tax** for the delay, accruing monthly.
- **Loss of carry-forward** for certain losses if you miss the original due date.
- **Delayed refunds**, since a late return usually means a later refund.

## How to stay ahead of the deadline

1. Gather documents early: Form 16, interest certificates, capital-gains statements, and proof for [deductions](/articles/tax-planning/income-tax-deductions-guide).
2. Decide your regime using the [income tax calculator](/tools/income-tax-calculator).
3. Pick the right form with [which ITR form to file](/articles/tax-planning/which-itr-form-to-file).
4. File well before the date using [how to file ITR online](/articles/tax-planning/how-to-file-itr-online).

## If you already missed it

File a belated return as soon as possible to limit interest and fees. The longer you wait, the more the interest accrues. Confirm the current belated-return window on the official portal.
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