Deadline to file income tax returns extended till August 31

The date for filing income tax returns (ITR) for the assessment year 2019-20 has been extended to August 31, 2019, said the government in a statement on Tuesday.

"The due date for filing of income tax returns for Assessment Year 2019-20 is 31.07.2019 for certain categories of taxpayers. Upon consideration of the matter, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) extends the 'due date' for filing of Income Tax Returns from 31st July, 2019 to 31st August, 2019 in respect of the said categories of taxpayers," said Surabhi Ahluwalia, Commissioner of Income Tax, Media and Technical Policy, in a statement.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed in the Budget to make PAN and Aadhaar interchangeable and allow those who do not have PAN to file income tax returns by simply quoting their Aadhaar number and also use it wherever they are required to quote PAN. 

Sitharaman said more than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhaar and the proposal aims at ease and convenience of taxpayers.

At the same time, pre-filed tax returns will be made available to taxpayers which will contain details of salary income, capital gains from securities, bank interests, dividends and tax deductions.

"This will not only significantly reduce the time taken to file a tax return, but will also ensure accuracy of reporting of income and taxes," said Sitharaman.

(With inputs from agencies)