Income Tax Return Filing: Checklist and Deadlines for FY26

Filing your income tax return (ITR) for the financial year 2025-26 is important to avoid penalties.

The deadline to file without penalties is 31 August 2026, but you can file until 31 December 2026 with extra charges.

You need documents like your Aadhaar card, PAN card, Form 16 from your employer, and proofs of your investments and loans.

You can file online using the income tax portal.

It's best to file early to avoid last-minute problems.

After filing, you must verify your return within 30 days using Aadhaar OTP, net banking, or an electronic verification code.