ITR 2025 Alert 🚨: Income Tax Department tells the ‘Best Browser-OS’, otherwise taxpayers may get stuck at the time of filing

As the income tax return (ITR) filing deadline of September 15 approaches, taxpayers face e-filing issues. The Income Tax Department advises using updated browsers and operating systems to avoid glitches. Late filings incur penalties of up to Rs 5,000 and monthly interest on unpaid taxes. Early filing and e-verification are recommended.

Income Tax ITR Filing Due Date Extension: Important Updates

With the deadline to file income tax returns (ITRs) for FY 2024-25 just hours away, many taxpayers are experiencing glitches on e-filing platforms, making the last-minute process increasingly stressful. Some taxpayers have reported difficulties in downloading Form 26AS, while others have noted that the website is taking too long to respond to commands.

To mitigate these issues, the Income Tax Department has advised taxpayers to check their computer systems and browser settings prior to filing. The crucial deadline for filing ITRs is September 15, leading to a surge of users accessing the website.

Income Tax ITR Filing: Government Recommendations

To ensure a smooth filing experience, taxpayers are encouraged to use updated browsers such as:

Microsoft Edge (version 88 or above)
Google Chrome (version 88 or above)
Mozilla Firefox (version 86 or above)
Opera (version 66 or above)

The Income Tax Department also recommends using operating systems such as Windows 7 or later, Linux, or Mac OS. Adhering to these guidelines can help prevent unnecessary delays and glitches during the filing process.

Income Tax ITR Filing Due Date Extension: Penalty Information

Under Section 234F, taxpayers who file their returns late may incur penalties. If an individual’s annual income exceeds Rs 5 lakh, the fine is set at Rs 5,000. Conversely, for those earning below Rs 5 lakh, the late fee is reduced to Rs 1,000, emphasizing the importance of timely filing to avoid additional costs. Furthermore, the Income Tax Department imposes a monthly interest of 1% on any unpaid tax, calculated on a part-month basis.

Income Tax ITR Filing: Tips to Avoid Last-Minute Technical Glitches

To facilitate a hassle-free filing process, taxpayers can follow these steps:

File Early: Submit your ITR well before the deadline to avoid slowdowns and last-minute technical issues.
Import Pre-filled Fields: Utilize the e-filing portal to import pre-filled fields. This can save time and minimize errors—always review your entries.
E-Verify Instantly: For faster authentication and processing, use Aadhaar OTP for immediate e-verification.

As the deadline approaches, experts recommend that taxpayers ensure system compatibility, keep all necessary documents handy, and file their returns on time to prevent penalties.