Missed filing ITR for AY 2021–22 or 2022–23? You’ve got one last shot, here are the details

The Income Tax Department has officially enabled the filing of Updated Returns (ITR-U) for Assessment Years 2021–22 and 2022–23, giving taxpayers a chance to correct or complete past returns—but only to declare more income, not reduce tax or claim refunds.

This facility now supports both ITR-1 and ITR-2 forms through the e-filing portal and Excel-based offline utility, as confirmed by the department. “Excel Utilities for filing updated returns in ITR-1 and ITR-2 for the AYs 2021-22 and 2022-23 as per Finance Act, 2025 is available now for filing,” the official site states.

Who Can File:

• Individuals or HUFs eligible for ITR-1 or ITR-2
• Those who missed filing their original return
• Those who filed but need to correct errors or disclose additional income

What Is ITR-U: The Updated Return (Section 139(8A)) allows voluntary corrections for earlier returns—but only to declare additional income. It cannot be used to:

• Claim or increase a refund
• Declare a loss
• Reduce tax liability

Deadlines:

• You have a 48-month window from the end of the relevant assessment year:
• AY 2021–22: File by 31 March 2026
• AY 2022–23: File by 31 March 2027

Penalty Structure: The later you file, the higher the cost. In addition to your tax dues, you must pay a percentage-based penalty:

Filed within 12 months: 25% additional tax

• 13–24 months: 50%
• 25–36 months: 60%
• 37–48 months: 70%

How to File:

• Access the e-filing portal
• Login/Register using PAN credentials
• Download Excel Utility (if filing offline)
• Choose “Updated Return” under Section 139(8A)
• Select ITR-1 or ITR-2, fill in new income details
• State reason for updating (e.g. missed income)
• Calculate tax and additional liability
• Pay dues, enter Challan details
• Submit and e-verify

Documents Needed:

• PAN and Aadhaar
• Original return details (if filed earlier)
• Bank statements and relevant income proofs
• Tax payment Challan details

Important Notes:

• Returns must be e-verified or ITR-V must be sent to CPC Bangalore within 120 days
• Acknowledgement will be sent via email/SMS
• Additional tax paid is not refundable
• The facility promotes voluntary compliance—before authorities initiate proceedings

For taxpayers who missed or misfiled their ITRs for AY 2021–22 or 2022–23, this is a critical opportunity to rectify past mistakes—but the window comes with conditions and steep penalties for delay.