Income Tax Department Reports Over 7.8 Crore ITR Filings for AY 2026-27

Taxpayers have filed a record 7.8 crore income tax returns for the assessment year 2026-27 as of August 31, surpassing previous timelines. The figures include more than 5.9 crore ITR-1 and ITR-2 forms filed by the initial July 31 deadline.

A record-breaking volume of over 7.8 crore income tax returns (ITRs) have been filed for the assessment year (AY) 2026-27 as of August 31, according to an update shared by the Income Tax Department on Tuesday.

This figure reflects an accelerated pace of compliance compared to the previous year. Last year, over 7.3 crore ITRs were filed by September 16, 2025, which was the extended deadline for non-audit cases for AY 2025-26.

The department noted that the total count includes more than 5.9 crore ITR-1 and ITR-2 returns submitted by the standard due date of July 31.

August 31, 2026, marked the due date for filing ITRs for AY 2026-27 specifically for taxpayers who have business or professional income but are not subject to mandatory audits. Taxpayers falling within this non-audit category utilize various forms depending on their entity type and revenue source, including ITR-3, ITR-4, ITR-5, and ITR-7.

The classification of these forms dictates the filing requirements across different business structures. ITR-3 is designated for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) earning income from a proprietary business or profession. Meanwhile, ITR-4 serves as a simplified form tailored for small and medium taxpayers.

For corporate entities and other organized structures, different filings apply. ITR-5 is utilized by firms, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), and Cooperative Societies. Companies registered under the Companies Act file using ITR-6, while trusts and charitable institutions submit their returns through ITR-7.

The higher volume of early filings indicates a shift toward timely compliance among individual earners, professionals, and small business owners navigating the diverse set of tax forms required by the regulatory framework.

"The milestone of over 7.8 crore ITR filings for AY 2026-27 reflects a strong trend toward digital compliance and timely financial reporting among Indian taxpayers and business owners. For founders, micro-entrepreneurs, and small business enterprises, maintaining disciplined tax hygiene is foundational. Utilizing the correct forms—whether ITR-3 for proprietary ventures or ITR-4 for small taxpayers—ensures transparency, strengthens financial credibility, and avoids regulatory friction during future business operations or fundraising processes." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes