As the financial year 2024-25 wraps up, taxpayers across India prepare to file their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the assessment year 2025-26. Two important milestones in this annual process are the receipt of Form 16 from employers and the commencement of ITR filing. This article explains when you should expect to receive your Form 16 and the timeline for filing your tax return in 2025.
Understanding Form 16
Form 16 is a certificate issued by employers to their salaried employees, confirming the tax deducted at source (TDS) on their salary and deposited with the government. It serves as official proof of tax payment and is essential for filing your income tax return correctly.
Form 16 consists of two sections:
- Part A:Â Contains details about the employer and employee, including their PAN and TAN numbers, along with quarterly TDS deductions.
- Part B:Â Breaks down the salary components, exemptions, deductions claimed (such as under sections 80C, 80D), and the taxable income calculation.
This document simplifies the tax filing process by providing a clear summary of your income and taxes paid.
When Will ITR Filing 2025 Start?
Employers are required to provide Form 16 to their employees by June 15, 2025, for the financial year 2024-25. This deadline ensures that employees have adequate time to file their tax returns before the due date.
If you have worked with multiple employers during the year, you should collect Form 16 from each one for the respective period of employment. Employers who delay issuing Form 16 beyond the deadline may face penalties.
In case you do not receive Form 16 or lose it, you can request a duplicate from your employer. Alternatively, you can refer to Form 26AS, available on the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal, which also details the TDS deducted against your PAN.
When Will You Receive Form 16?
The Income Tax Department typically opens the window for filing returns at the start of the new financial year. For the assessment year 2025-26, ITR filing began on April 1, 2025.
The last date to file ITR without incurring penalties for salaried individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) whose accounts do not require audit is July 31, 2025. For taxpayers who need to get their accounts audited, the deadline is extended to October 31, 2025. If transfer pricing reports are involved, the due date is November 30, 2025.
Revised or belated returns can be submitted up to December 31, 2025. Moreover, taxpayers can file updated returns for up to four years from the end of the relevant assessment year, which means until March 31, 2030 for AY 2025-26.
Why Are Form 16 and Timely ITR Filing Important?
- Proof of Tax Payment:Â Form 16 confirms that tax has been deducted and deposited on your behalf.
- Simplifies Filing:Â It provides a detailed summary of salary and deductions, making tax return filing easier and more accurate.
- Financial Documentation:Â Form 16 is often required when applying for loans or other financial services as proof of income.
- Avoid Penalties:Â Filing your ITR on time using Form 16 helps you avoid late fees, interest, and potential scrutiny from tax authorities.
How to Access Form 16 Online?
Employers can download Form 16 from the TRACES portal, which is an official platform provided by the Income Tax Department for TDS-related services. Employees can request their employer to share Form 16 or alternatively download Form 26AS from the income tax e-filing website, which reflects all TDS deducted against their PAN.
Important Deadlines for ITR Filing 2025
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Start of ITR Filing | April 1, 2025 |
| Deadline for Employers to Issue Form 16 | June 15, 2025 |
| Last Date for ITR Filing (Individuals) | July 31, 2025 |
Conclusion
For the financial year 2024-25, salaried taxpayers should receive their Form 16 from employers by mid-June 2025. The Income Tax Department has opened the ITR filing window from April 1, 2025, with the deadline for most taxpayers set at July 31, 2025. Staying aware of these dates and ensuring timely filing will help you remain compliant and avoid penalties.
By understanding the process and deadlines for Form 16 issuance and ITR filing, you can manage your tax responsibilities efficiently and confidently.
This article is based on the latest official guidelines and announcements from the Income Tax Department as of April 2025.
