The End Of July 31st Standard: Why Your ITR Form Choice Decides Your ITR Filing Deadline This Year

For many years, July has been a deadline month for income tax return filing for the majority of taxpayers, irrespective of which ITR form--ITR1, ITR2, ITR3, ITR4 or others--they file tax return with. However, the deadline scenario is not the same this year, meaning July 31 is no longer a single deadline for all taxpayers. The deadline map has been redrawn, and the last date to file a tax return for the Assessment year 2026-27 now depends on the ITR form you choose to file.  

ITR Filing Deadline For AY 2026-27

The deadline for taxpayers, including salaried individuals, investors, and pensioners who file tax returns using ITR Form 1 or ITR Form 2, will remain unchanged--July 31. The taxpayers who have earnings from salary, capital gain, and interest on investment choose these forms, according to their earnings sources.

However, business professionals or taxpayers who file ITR using ITR-3 or ITR-4 will get an extra month to file their return till August 31 (deadline). This is a relief for taxpayers or businesses whose income is not subject to audit. Freelancers, doctors, lawyers, consultants, partners, small properties and others fall under this category.

Meanwhile, the deadline for those who need an audit will remain October 31.