Staying compliant with Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) regulations is crucial to avoid penalties. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the due dates for TDS payments and return filings for the Financial Year 2025-26:
Monthly TDS Payment Deadlines
For most deductors, TDS must be deposited by the 7th of the following month. However, for deductions made in March, the due date is extended to April 30th.
| Month of Deduction | TDS Payment Due Date |
|---|---|
| April 2025 | 7th May 2025 |
| May 2025 | 7th June 2025 |
| June 2025 | 7th July 2025 |
| July 2025 | 7th August 2025 |
| August 2025 | 7th September 2025 |
| September 2025 | 7th October 2025 |
| October 2025 | 7th November 2025 |
| November 2025 | 7th December 2025 |
| December 2025 | 7th January 2026 |
| January 2026 | 7th February 2026 |
| February 2026 | 7th March 2026 |
| March 2026 | 30th April 2026 |
Note: If the due date falls on a Sunday or public holiday, the next working day is considered the due date.
Quarterly TDS Return Filing Deadlines
TDS returns must be filed quarterly using the appropriate forms:
- Form 24Q: TDS on salaries
- Form 26Q: TDS on payments other than salaries to residents
- Form 27Q: TDS on payments to non-residents
| Quarter | Period Covered | TDS Return Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | April – June 2025 | 31st July 2025 |
| Q2 | July – September 2025 | 31st October 2025 |
| Q3 | October – December 2025 | 31st January 2026 |
| Q4 | January – March 2026 | 31st May 2026 |
Penalties for Late TDS Payment or Filing
Non-compliance with TDS regulations can lead to various penalties:
1. Late Filing Fee (Section 234E)
- Amount: ₹200 per day of delay.
- Cap: Total fee cannot exceed the TDS amount.
2. Penalty for Late Filing or Incorrect Filing (Section 271H)
- Amount: Minimum ₹10,000 and up to ₹1,00,000.
- Applicability: For delayed filing beyond one year or incorrect details in the return.
3. Interest on Late Deduction or Payment (Section 201(1A))
- Late Deduction: 1% per month from the date tax was deductible to the date it is deducted.
- Late Payment: 1.5% per month from the date of deduction to the date of payment.
Interest is calculated for every month or part thereof, meaning even a delay of one day in a month can attract interest for the entire month.
Importance of Timely Compliance
- Avoid Financial Penalties: Timely payments and filings prevent unnecessary financial burdens.
- Ensure Deductee Benefits: Timely filing ensures that the deducted tax reflects in the deductee’s Form 26AS, allowing them to claim credit.
- Maintain Good Standing: Regular compliance builds trust with stakeholders and avoids scrutiny from tax authorities.
Note: This information is based on the latest guidelines for FY 2025-26. For specific cases or further assistance, consult a tax professional or refer to official resources.
