ITR Vs. TDS Timeline Gap: A Taxpayer's Dilemma

Shreyans Panchal (CA Final Student) (230 Points)

12 May 2025  

Even after years of tax systems evolving, the mismatch in due dates continues — TDS returns for Q4 are due by 31st May 2025, while the deadline for individual ITR filing is 31st July. But practically, how is someone supposed to file their ITR in May if their TDS details won’t be reflected till June? This delay affects especially those who urgently need to file early — like students, loan applicants, or professionals needing ITRs for documentation. If they go ahead and file before TDS data is uploaded, they risk losing out on their refund or getting stuck in mismatch issues. It’s a situation where early filers are punished for being proactive — they’re ready to comply, but the system isn’t ready for them.

  1. Why haven’t the ITR deadlines been realigned with the TDS return cycle, even after so many years?
  2. What’s the solution for taxpayers who need to file early but can’t claim their rightful refunds due to timing issues?
  3. QCan there be a faster TDS reporting mechanism or early upload option to support early ITR filers?