Filing ITR for Previous Assessment Years
As per section 139(4) of the IT Act, if you do not file your Income Tax Return within the due date, you may do so before the end of the respective assessment year, along with a late fee. A belated return may be filed up to three months prior to the end of the relevant assessment year, or before the assessment is completed, whichever comes earlier.
So, for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26), the ITR filing last date 2025 for belated return is 31st December 2026.
You can file returns for the previous years. This can be done, at best, for the two years preceding the current financial year. Thus, If you want to file your ITR for the FY 2022-23, you must do so by the end of the FY 2024-2025.
Belated Return under Section 139(4)
A belated return refers to an income tax return filed after the original due date but before the end of the assessment year. Under Section 139(4) of the Income Tax Act, taxpayers who miss the initial deadline can still file their ITR, albeit with penalties. For instance, if you’re wondering, “Can I file ITR for the last 3 years now?” the answer depends on the specific conditions and timelines. Filing a belated return ensures compliance but may attract late filing fees and interest on the outstanding tax liability.
Updated Return under Section 139(8A)
An updated return allows taxpayers to rectify errors or omissions in their previously filed ITR or to file one if missed altogether. Introduced in Section 139(8A), this provision permits taxpayers to update their returns for relevant assessment years 24 months earlier, now extended to 48 months for AY 2026-27 onwards), subject to certain restrictions. This means that if you’re considering “how many previous year ITR can be filed”, the updated return offers a limited window for correction and compliance.
How Many Previous Years' ITR Can Be Filed?
You cannot file ITR for the last 3 years all at once. However, current provisions under Section 139(8A) allow you to file updated returns for the any eligible past assessment year within the prescribed time limit (now up to 48 months from the end of the relevant assessment year from 1 April 2025), subject to conditions. For instance, in FY 2024-25, the specific assessment years you can cover with an updated return will depend on whether you are within the 24‑month or extended 48‑month window applicable to that assessment year.
Eligibility Criteria for Filing Previous Year ITR
To file an ITR for a previous year, you must:
- Ensure the income threshold for mandatory filing was met during that financial year
- Have access to relevant income details and supporting documents
- Not have been under prosecution or tax scrutiny for the concerned year
