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As the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) approaches, the Income Tax Department has reported a significant rise in the number of returns submitted for the Assessment Year (AY) 2026–27. According to the latest update, more than 17 million taxpayers have already filed their income tax returns, with over one million returns submitted on Friday alone, reflecting a sharp increase in filing activity.

The department has advised eligible taxpayers to complete the process well before the July 31, 2026 deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure quicker processing of tax refunds.

More Than 17 Million Tax Returns Submitted

The Income Tax Department shared the latest filing statistics through its official social media channels, confirming that over 17 million Income Tax Returns (ITRs) have been successfully filed for AY 2026–27.

The figures indicate growing compliance among taxpayers and suggest that filing activity has accelerated as the due date draws closer. The submission of more than one million returns in a single day highlights the rush among taxpayers to meet the upcoming deadline.

Tax officials have encouraged individuals who have not yet filed their returns to begin the process immediately instead of waiting until the final days.

July 31 Is the Deadline for ITR-1 and ITR-2

For individuals filing returns related to income earned during the Financial Year 2025–26, the due date for submitting ITR-1 (Sahaj) and ITR-2 remains July 31, 2026, provided their accounts are not subject to audit.

The department has emphasized that filing early offers several advantages, including avoiding heavy traffic on the e-filing portal, reducing the chances of technical glitches, and allowing faster verification and processing of returns.

Taxpayers who delay filing until the last moment may experience server slowdowns due to increased user activity close to the deadline.

Who Is Eligible to File ITR-1?

The ITR-1, commonly known as the Sahaj Form, is designed for resident individual taxpayers with relatively simple income sources.

Generally, a taxpayer can file ITR-1 if:

• Annual income does not exceed ₹50 lakh

• Income is earned from salary or pension

• Income comes from one residential property

• Agricultural income is up to ₹5,000

• The taxpayer's income structure satisfies the eligibility conditions prescribed by the Income Tax Department

Because of its simplified format, ITR-1 remains the most commonly used return form among salaried individuals.

Who Should File ITR-2?

The ITR-2 form is meant for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) whose income does not arise from business or professional activities.

Typically, ITR-2 is applicable when a taxpayer:

• Earns income from multiple sources that do not qualify under ITR-1

• Has capital gains from the sale of shares, property, or other capital assets

• Has income or financial situations that fall outside the scope of the Sahaj form

Taxpayers should carefully review the eligibility criteria before selecting the appropriate return form to avoid filing errors.

Why Filing Your Income Tax Return Early Matters

Submitting your Income Tax Return before the deadline offers several financial and administrative benefits.

Some of the key advantages include:

• Faster processing of tax refunds

• Reduced risk of portal congestion and technical delays

• Avoidance of late filing fees and penalties, where applicable

• Easier access to financial documents required for loans, visas, and credit applications

• Better compliance with tax regulations and smoother future tax assessments

Financial experts also recommend verifying all personal details, income information, deductions, and tax payments before submitting the return to minimize the possibility of receiving notices or having to revise the return later.

Tax Department Advises Taxpayers Not to Wait Until the Last Minute

With filing numbers increasing rapidly, the Income Tax Department has once again urged taxpayers to complete the process without delay. Early filing not only reduces pressure on the e-filing system but also gives taxpayers sufficient time to correct any discrepancies that may arise during verification.

Individuals who are required to file ITR-1 or ITR-2 should ensure they gather all necessary documents, verify their information carefully, and submit their returns before July 31, 2026. Filing on time can help avoid unnecessary complications while ensuring quicker refund processing and smoother financial documentation in the future.