As just two days--July 30, July 31- are left to file income tax returns for taxpayers filing returns with ITR-1 and ITR-2, the income tax department said that more than 5 crore income tax returns have been filed for the 2026-27 assessment year till July 29.
"Over 5 crore ITRs have already been filed for A.Y. 2026-27," the post on X said.
The tax department also asked filers to file ITR 1 and 2 before the July 31 deadline. Meanwhile, many taxpayers are confused about who must file their income tax return by the July 31 deadline and who can file till August 31.
Earlier, August 31 did not exist as a deadline; however, the Union Budget 2026 introduced a new August 31 deadline for non-audit business taxpayers and trusts, while keeping the due date the same as July 31 for salaried individuals.
Who is the ITR July 31 deadline for?
Taxpayers eligible to file ITR-1 and ITR-2 will have to submit their income tax returns by July 31--the deadline.
ITR Form 1 (Sahaj)- It is a simple form that is suitable for a large number of small and medium taxpayers.
Individuals with annual income up to Rs 50 lakh and income from salary, one house property, and farming income up to Rs 5,000 per annum can file Sahaj.
ITR-2- The form should be filed by individuals and HUFs who do not have income from profits and gains of their business or profession, but have income from capital gains.
Also Read: Unlock Financial Advantages: Why Non-Taxpayers Must File Income Tax Returns Annually
Who can file ITR by August 31?
Taxpayers whose business or professional income is not subject to tax audit have until August 31st to file their returns.
These taxpayers use ITR-3 or ITR-4, depending on the nature of their income and eligibility.
Meanwhile, taxpayers whose accounts are subject to audit can file ITRs until October 31st. The tax audit deadline is September 30th.