CBDT Extends Tax Audit Deadline To October 31
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has officially extended the deadline for filing income tax audit reports for the Financial Year 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26) from September 30 to October 31, 2025.
Judicial Backing
This move follows interim orders from the Rajasthan High Court (Jodhpur Bench) and Karnataka High Court, both of which directed the CBDT to grant the one-month extension in light of practical difficulties faced by taxpayers and chartered accountants.
Who Is Affected
The extension applies to assessees who must file audits under Section 44AB of the Income Tax Act. This typically includes businesses and professionals whose turnover or gross receipts exceed specified thresholds.
Reason For Relief
The extension responds to appeals citing technical glitches in the e-filing portal, delayed release of audit utilities, and insufficient time under the earlier deadline. Tax professionals and industries had petitioned multiple courts and the CBDT for relief, arguing that the schedule was unworkable under prevailing conditions.
What Comes Next
A formal notification from the CBDT is expected soon. Taxpayers and auditors now have additional time to prepare and submit audit reports without incurring penalties. The Delhi High Court has deferred its hearing on similar petitions, awaiting the CBDT’s final order.
