If you fail to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) by the due date, you still have options:

🔁 Belated Return – Section 139(4)

Taxpayers who miss the original filing deadline can still file a Belated Return under Section 139(4) by 31st December of the relevant Assessment Year, along with applicable late fees of 1,000 if gross total income is upto 5 lacs and late fees of 5000 is applicable if gross total income exceeds 5 lacs along with applicable interest.

✅ For Financial Year 2024–25, the last date to file a belated return is 31st December 2025.

🕒 Updated Return – Section 139(8A)

If you miss even the belated return deadline, you still have a final opportunity to file an Updated Return (ITR-U) under Section 139(8A), subject to certain conditions.

✅ You can file an updated return within 48 months (4 years) from the end of the relevant Assessment Year.

✅ For Financial Year 2024–25, the last date to file an updated return is 31st March 2030.

This provision ensures taxpayers get ample time to correct or report income they may have missed earlier.