Updated IT Returns u/s 139 (8A)

The rules for filing an updated income tax return (ITR-U) have recently changed. As of April 1, 2025, you can file an updated return for up to four years (48 months) after the end of the relevant assessment year.

For the financial year (FY) 2024-25, you will be able to file an updated return from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2030. In the financial year 2025-26, you can file updated returns for assessment years 2021-22 to 2024-25.

If utility not released, wait for updation.

The 4-year (48-month) ITR-U window lets you correct income tax returns from AY 2022-23 onward. The additional tax you pay depends on when you file: 25% extra within 12 months of the assessment year end, 50% within 24 months, 60% within 36 months, and 70% within 48 months.

 From Budget 2026, two major restrictions are removed, you can now file ITR-U even if the updated return shows a loss (provided you are declaring more income than before), and you can file even after a Section 148 reassessment notice is issued. CBDT has notified the revised ITR-U form under the Income Tax Rules 2026. One caution: ITR-U cannot be used to claim a refund or reduce existing tax liability, it can only be used to declare additional income or correct under-reporting.

Updated returns under Section 139(8A) can be filed up to 4 years from the end of the relevant assessment year, but with an additional tax cost that steps up over time: 25% extra if filed within 12 months of the assessment year end, 50% extra beyond 12 months, 60% beyond 24 months, and 70% beyond 36 months. The Budget 2026 amendment also now allows ITR-U even after a reassessment notice is issued, with a 10% additional tax in that case.

You cannot file ITR-U to claim a refund or to reduce already-reported income. For the full eligibility conditions and timeline by assessment year, see this [updated and belated return guide](https://taxgarden.in/blog/belated-revised-updated-itr-return-guide-india-ay-2026-27).