Only two days remain until the July 31 deadline for filing income tax returns, yet many taxpayers have not yet filed or e-verified their returns. Some people are anticipating the government will extend the deadline, which was done in earlier years.
For example, in FY 2024-25, the due date for filing IT tax returns was extended to 15 September 2025 from the usual 31 July. But the possibility of another extension is less likely in the present year, given the momentum in filings.
Latest Tax Filing Statistics
As per the official e-filing portal of the income tax department, filing activity is progressing seamlessly. As of 28th July, the portal reported-
- 4,69,24,148 returns filed for AY 2026-27
- 4,40,19,959 returns verified
- 2,33,77,962 ITRs processed
- Over 14,11,67,693 individual users
Why Are Experts Saying There Is Little Chance of an Extension This Time?
The compliance calendar has already been framed to reduce the pressure on taxpayers. Specific reporting requirements have been staggered; however, business and professional taxpayers have separate deadlines, considering the intricacy of their returns.
The restructuring of the compliance calendar has lessened the burden. Consequently, extending the deadline may not be possible.
The deadline must not be extended because the compliance burden was already reduced by deferring partial compliance to August. Hence, no extension is anticipated. Neither should be anticipated.
The chances of extending the deadline are relatively less this year as the different deadlines have been in place for business/profession, recognising that those returns are more detailed and take much time to prepare.
Although the Income Tax Department has made income tax return (ITR) forms and JSON Schema available in May 2026, the income tax portal is functioning smoothly apart from occasional glitches. Therefore, given the low chances, it will be safer to file the ITR on time to avoid late-filing fees, interest, and the loss of certain tax benefits, such as the ability to carry forward eligible losses to future years.
Should the Assessee Still Wait
It is not safe to wait for a possible extension. It will be a wise decision to ensure you comply, file, and e-verify your tax returns within the stipulated time. The deadline to file the returns for all eligible taxpayers is 31st July, 2026.
Late fees and interest might be the consequence of late filing or waiting for a last-minute extension. Also, taxpayers might be deprived of the available tax benefits, which could only be available through timely filing.
Therefore, instead of speculating or having anticipations of a last-minute extension of the deadline, all taxpayers who did not file their ITRs should do so in the remaining two days.
View the ITR Filing Data on the Portal – https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/pre-login/success-enablers
