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Updated Return (ITR-U) Extended to 48 Months: The Biggest Taxpayer Benefit in IT Act 2025 — Practical Guide

Quick Summary Box

Parameter Old Position (Section 139(8A), IT Act 1961) New Position (Section 263, IT Act 2025)
Window for filing updated return 24 months from end of relevant AY 48 months from end of relevant Tax Year
Additional tax for filing at 12 months 25% of tax + interest 25% of tax + interest
Additional tax for 13–24 months 50% of tax + interest 50% of tax + interest
Additional tax for 25–36 months Not available 60% of tax + interest
Additional tax for 37–48 months Not available 70% of tax + interest
Available if return already filed? Yes — to add additional income Yes — same
Available if assessment completed? No No
Available if search conducted? No No
Prosecution protection Yes — if tax paid voluntarily Yes — enhanced protection

ITR-U (Updated Return) Now 48 Months Under IT Act 2025 — Complete Guide: Who Should File, When to File, Tax Rates, and Prosecution Protection (Section 263)

When the Finance Act 2022 introduced the Updated Return (ITR-U) under Section 139(8A) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, it was hailed as a landmark voluntary disclosure mechanism — allowing taxpayers to come clean about unreported income without facing prosecution, by paying a premium tax (25-50% additional tax on the incremental liability). The window was 24 months from the end of the relevant Assessment Year.

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