CBDT rules out extension of deadline for filing audit reports, ITRs

The finance ministry has ruled out any further extension of the deadline for filing audit reports by companies and income tax returns (ITRs). The statement of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) came after the Gujarat High Court had directed the Union Ministry of Finance to look into the issue of extension of due dates for filing of the report.

CBDT in an order said, "all representations for further extension of the due date are hereby rejected."

It said the due dates of filing audit reports have already been extended thrice till January 15 this year. The last date of filing ITRs in audit cases is February 15 and ended on January 10 in non-audit cases.
 

 

"Thus, it is apparent that the government has not only considered representations of various stakeholders but also has been proactive in providing relaxation to the taxpayers by extending due dates regularly.

It said filing of tax returns and audit reports are essential part of the obligations of assessee and cannot be delayed indefinitely.

"Many functions of the income tax department start only after filing of the returns by the assessee," it said.

Earlier, the Gujarat Federation of Tax Consultants approached the court with a plea to issue a writ of mandamus to the finance ministry. The demanded writ was to extend the due date of filing audit reports and income tax returns this year, keeping in mind the pandemic, along with directing the Union home ministry to issue orders and directives to workplaces regarding work-from-home.
 

The businesses whose turnover or gross receipts exceeds Rs 1 crore in any previous year are required to file an audit report.