The Consequences of Filing Belated Income Tax Returns: What is Belated Return and Due Date?

The last date to file income tax returns was the 31st of July 2023.  The IT department before the due date urged several times to file the tax returns on time. However, Taxpayers who failed to file their income tax returns by the end of the 31st of July 2023 are obliged to file now belated tax returns till the 31st of December 2023. 

As per the reports, a major part of the taxpayers have already filed their tax returns but still, there are some who failed to do it. They are now required to file belated tax returns. Therefore, this article will take you through the consequences of filing belated income tax returns filing, penalties, and fees. 

What is belated ITR?

If any of the individuals could not file his/her original income tax returns within the specified deadline (July 31, 2023). However s/he will be able to file his/her revised IT returns, and the sole possibility they will now have is to file a belated return. 

The due date, generally for filing a belated return is decided on or before the end of the appropriate assessment year. For the current year, it is December 31, 2023.

According to the latest data, the income tax returns filed for Assessment Year 2023-24 are more than the 31st of July of last AY. The weightage of ITR filed every year is increasing year to year. Income Tax Department shared in a report showing “More than 6.7 Crores ITRs are filed for the assessment year 2023-24 by the 31st of July. The IT department verified 5.62 Crores ITR as of now from 6.7 Crores and 3.23 Crores have been processed successfully. 

Consequences of Filing Belated Income Tax Returns

1. Late Filing Penalty

One of the primary consequences of filing income tax returns after the due date is the imposition of a late filing penalty. The penalty amount varies depending on the taxpayer's total income and the period of delay. For individuals with a total income exceeding Rs. 5 lahks per annum, the late fee can be up to Rs. 5,000, while for those with income below Rs. 5 lahks, the penalty can be up to Rs. 1,000.

2. Loss of Interest on Refunds

Filing belated income tax returns often results in delayed processing of refunds, leading to a loss of interest on the refund amount. The Income Tax Department provides interest on refunds if the taxpayer is eligible, but this interest is calculated from the original due date of filing the return. Therefore, late filers miss out on the additional interest that could have been accrued had they filed their returns on time.

3. Inability to Carry Forward Losses

In cases where the taxpayer incurs losses in a particular financial year, filing the income tax return on time allows them to carry forward these losses to subsequent years. However, for belated filers, this opportunity is lost, as the provision to carry forward losses is only available for returns filed within the due date.

4. Increased Scrutiny

Late filers may attract increased scrutiny from the tax authorities. The delay raises red flags and may lead to a closer examination of the taxpayer's financial affairs. This heightened scrutiny can be an inconvenience for the taxpayer and may result in additional investigations or inquiries.

5. Missing Compliance Benefits

Timely filing of income tax returns offers certain compliance benefits, such as faster processing, ease of rectification, and efficient resolution of discrepancies. Belated filers miss out on these advantages, making the tax filing process more cumbersome and time-consuming.

6. Possibility of Prosecution and Imprisonment

In severe cases of persistent non-compliance, the Income Tax Department may initiate legal action against the taxpayer. This could include prosecution under the Income Tax Act, which may result in fines or even imprisonment for the taxpayer.

The Importance of Timely Tax Filing

The consequences of filing belated income tax returns clearly highlight the significance of timely tax filing. Adhering to the due dates not only avoids penalties and interest but also ensures a smoother and stress-free process for taxpayers. It also allows taxpayers to benefit from various compliance advantages and maintain a clean tax record.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I file my income tax return after the due date?

Yes, taxpayers can file belated income tax returns. The due date for belated returns is generally December 31 of the assessment year. However, late filing attracts penalties and interest.

What if I discover errors in my original return after filing?

Taxpayers can rectify errors or make revisions in their original tax returns by filing a revised return within the specified due date. It is crucial to correct any mistakes to avoid future complications.

Will filing belated returns affect my credit score?

While filing belated returns may not directly impact your credit score, it can indicate financial irresponsibility to lenders and financial institutions, which could indirectly affect your creditworthiness

Also Read: PAN Card Holders Alert: Income Tax Department can impose a Fine of Rs 10,000 Check the details

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