Two dates matter this year. Missing the first doesn't mean it's over — but the fee, the interest, and the risk to your loss carry-forward all start adding up the moment you cross it.
Audit report (Form 3CD)
21 October 2026
ITR for audit cases
21 November 2026
three separate consequences — not just one fee.
01
Section 271B fee
0.5% of your turnover or gross receipts, capped at ₹1,50,000 — charged for a late or missing audit report, unless you can show reasonable cause.
02
Interest on unpaid tax
Separate from the 271B fee — interest continues to accrue on any tax that remains unpaid past the due date, regardless of when you eventually file.
03
Lost loss carry-forward
Business and most capital losses can only be carried forward if your ITR is filed by its due date — 21 November 2026 for audit cases this year. File the ITR late, and that right is usually gone.
What is the tax audit due date for AY 2026-27?
The tax audit report — Form 3CA/3CB along with Form 3CD — is now due by 21 October 2026 for FY 2025-26, extended from 30 September 2026. Your ITR for an audit case is now due by 21 November 2026, extended from 31 October 2026. CBDT announced both extensions in a press release dated 28 September 2026, which says a formal order or notification will be issued separately.
What is the penalty for missing the deadline?
A fee under Section 271B — 0.5% of turnover or gross receipts, capped at ₹1,50,000 — unless you can show reasonable cause. Interest on unpaid tax accrues separately.
Can I still file if I've already missed 21 October?
Yes. A belated audit report and return can be filed, typically up to 31 December 2026. The Section 271B fee and interest apply, but filing late is always better than not filing at all.
Will filing late affect my ability to carry forward losses?
Yes — most losses can only be carried forward if the ITR is filed by its due date under Section 139(1), which is 21 November 2026 for audit cases this year. A belated return generally forfeits this right, except for house property loss and unabsorbed depreciation.
Can a tax audit report be revised after filing?
Yes, a revised Form 3CD can be filed if you discover an error, as long as the assessment for that year hasn't been completed.
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