Who Should File ITR for AY 2025–26?

📌 Introduction

The Income Tax Return (ITR) filing season for Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26 is here, and taxpayers across India are gearing up to comply with their tax obligations. However, not everyone is required to file an ITR, and knowing whether you must file is essential to avoid penalties and legal complications. This article explains who should file ITR for AY 2025–26.

What is AY 2025-26?

The Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26 refers to the period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. It is the year in which income earned during the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25 is assessed and taxed by the Income Tax Department.

Who is Required to File ITR for AY 2025–26?

You must file an Income Tax Return for AY 2025-26 if you meet any of the following criteria:

1. Income Exceeds Basic Exemption Limit

• Individuals below 60 years must file if gross total income exceeds ₹2,50,000.

• Senior citizens (60 years or above but below 80 years) must file if income exceeds ₹3,00,000.

• Super senior citizens (80 years or above) must file if income exceeds ₹5,00,000.

2. Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) Deducted

If TDS has been deducted on your income (salary, interest, rent, etc.), filing ITR is necessary to claim refund or adjust taxes.

3. Self-Employed or Business Income

If you run a business or are self-employed and have taxable income, filing ITR is mandatory irrespective of income.

4. Capital Gains

If you have earned income from the sale of assets like property, shares, mutual funds, etc., you must file ITR even if the income is exempt or below the exemption limit.

5. Foreign Assets or Income

If you hold foreign assets, have foreign income, or have signing authority in foreign bank accounts, filing is mandatory.

6. Losses to be Carried Forward

If you have incurred business or capital losses and wish to carry them forward to subsequent years, filing ITR on time is necessary.

7. Income from Lottery or Gambling

Income from lottery, gambling, or betting is taxable, and ITR filing is mandatory.

8. Agricultural Income Over ₹5,000

If agricultural income exceeds ₹5,000 along with other income above exemption limits, you must file ITR.

9. Advance Tax Payment

If you have paid advance tax, filing ITR is essential to report the same.

10. To Claim Refund

Even if your income is below taxable limits, filing ITR is advisable if you want to claim a refund of excess TDS deducted.

Who is Not Required to File ITR?

• Individuals whose income is below the basic exemption limit and have no other conditions as above.

• Individuals who have income only from agricultural sources below ₹5,000 and no other income.

• Senior citizens with income only from pension or interest not exceeding exemption limits.

Benefits of Filing ITR on Time

• Avoid penalties and prosecution under Income Tax Law.

• Claim tax refunds on TDS and advance tax.

• Get a refund of excess tax paid.

• Proof of income for loan, visa, or government benefits.

• Carry forward losses to future years.

• Avoid notices from the Income Tax Department.

Important Dates for AY 2025-26 ITR Filing

Filing Type	Due Date
Individual & HUF	31st July 2025 / 15 th Sep 2025
Tax Audit Cases	30th September 2025
Companies and Others	30th September 2025

Note: Dates are subject to change by the Income Tax Department.

Conclusion

Filing your Income Tax Return for AY 2025-26 is crucial if you meet any of the above conditions. It ensures compliance with tax laws and helps avoid penalties and legal hassles. When in doubt, always consult a tax expert or use trusted portals like FileBob.in for easy and secure filing.