CBDT Extends Processing Timeline for Delayed ITRs Filed Till March 2024
In a major relief for taxpayers, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the timeline for processing delayed Income Tax Returns (ITRs) that were conditionally condoned and filed up to March 31, 2024. This move ensures that many such returns — filed for past assessment years — will now be eligible for processing under Section 143(1) of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
Let’s break down what this means, who it helps, and how to benefit from it.
What Does the CBDT Circular Say?
- Circular No. 07/2024 dated 25.06.2024 extends the timeline for processing conditionally condoned delayed ITRs.
- Applies to returns for AY 2018–19 to AY 2022–23, filed under specific condonation approvals by the Principal Commissioner or Chief Commissioner of Income Tax.
- New processing cut-off date: September 30, 2024.
🔗 CBDT Circular 07/2024 – Source (incometaxindia.gov.in)
What Are “Conditionally Condoned” Delayed Returns?
Some taxpayers missed the due date and filed a condonation request — generally seeking permission to file ITR for:
- Claiming refunds
- Carrying forward losses
- Rectifying earlier errors
That’s where this CBDT extension comes in.
Who Benefits from This Extension?
This timeline extension benefits:
- Salaried employees who missed filing ITRs for refund years
- Small businesses claiming loss carry forward
- Legal heirs filing delayed ITRs of deceased taxpayers
- NRIs who returned and realised they had missed past filings
Legal Reference: Section 119(2)(b)
This circular is issued under Section 119(2)(b) of the Income-tax Act, 1961, which empowers the CBDT to relax provisions in genuine hardship cases.
Expert Tip: Track Your Condonation Approval
“Even if your return is accepted for condonation, it must be processed under Section 143(1) to generate the refund. Don’t assume your job is done after filing — check your processing status regularly,” says Neha Kapoor, Tax Consultant at Efiletax.
Summary Table
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Circular | CBDT Circular No. 07/2024 dated 25.06.2024 |
| Applies to AY | 2018–19 to 2022–23 |
| Type of Returns | Delayed ITRs with condonation approval |
| Extended Processing Deadline | 30th September 2024 |
| Governing Section | Section 143(1) & 119(2)(b) of the Income-tax Act |
| Key Benefit | Enables refund processing and loss carry forward |
Steps to Check If Your Return Qualifies
- Log in to the Income Tax Portal
- Go to e-Filed Returns → View Filed Returns
- Check the acknowledgment date — it must be on or before 31.03.2024
- Confirm condonation approval from the Principal/Chief Commissioner
- Track status of processing — whether under 143(1)
What Should You Do Now?
If you’ve filed a delayed return with condonation approval, but haven’t received your refund, don’t panic.
- Track return status regularly
- Respond to any notices from CPC promptly
- Check for processing by 30.09.2024
FAQs on CBDT’s Processing Timeline Extension
Q1. Does this apply to AY 2023–24 returns?
No. It is limited to AY 2018–19 to AY 2022–23.
Q2. Can I file a delayed return now and still get the benefit?
Only if you already filed it before 31.03.2024 with proper condonation.
Q3. What happens if the return is not processed by 30.09.2024?
You may lose the refund or carry-forward benefit. Contact your jurisdictional AO or use grievance redressal.
Conclusion
The CBDT’s move to extend the processing timeline shows a taxpayer-friendly approach, especially for genuine hardship cases.
📞 Need help tracking your ITR status or filing condonation requests?
👉 Contact Efiletax Experts Now
Summary
CBDT has extended the deadline for processing conditionally condoned delayed ITRs up to 30 September 2024. This applies to returns from AY 2018–19 to AY 2022–23 filed by 31 March 2024.