When your return is due, and what section 234F actually costs you.

By Kanoons Editorial Team · 4 min read · Last verified 2026-07-26

Non-audit taxpayers must file their ITR by 31 July, audit cases by 31 October. Filing after the due date but before 31 December attracts a late fee under section 234F of ₹5,000, reduced to ₹1,000 if total income is below ₹5 lakh.

Beyond the late fee, a belated return also forfeits the ability to carry forward most losses (except house property loss) and delays any refund.