ITR Filing 2025: ITR-2 and ITR-3 Forms Now Live — Who Can Use Them and How to File

Income Tax Filing 2025: ITR-2 and ITR-3 Forms Activated — Know Who Should Use These and What’s New This Year

In a significant update for taxpayers, the Income Tax Department has activated the Excel utilities for ITR-2 and ITR-3 forms for the Assessment Year 2025–26. This means that eligible taxpayers can now start filing their returns through the official income tax e-filing portal using these forms.

This announcement was officially shared by the Income Tax Department on X (formerly Twitter) on July 11, 2025, as part of its efforts to streamline the return filing process. The last date to file your Income Tax Return (ITR) for this year is September 15, 2025.

Why Is the ITR Filing Deadline Extended to September 15?

Typically, the deadline for ITR filing is July 31 each year. However, in this assessment year, the government has extended the deadline to September 15, 2025. The reason behind this extension is the series of regulatory and tax structure changes announced in Union Budget 2025, particularly those involving capital gains taxation.

These changes necessitated updates in the ITR forms, which the department is gradually releasing after necessary adjustments. As of now, ITR-1, ITR-4, ITR-2, and ITR-3 have been activated for offline filing through their Excel utilities.

Who Should Use ITR-2?

ITR-2 is meant for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who do not earn income from business or professional activities. It is suitable for taxpayers who have income from the following sources:

• Salary or pension

• Multiple house properties

• Capital gains/losses from sale of stocks, mutual funds, or real estate

• Income from lotteries or horse races

• Foreign income and assets

• Investment-related income

• Resident Non-Ordinarily Residents (RNORs) and Non-Residents (NRIs)

If you’re someone who has earned short-term or long-term capital gains, or if you own more than one residential property, ITR-2 is likely the right form for you.

Who Should Use ITR-3?

ITR-3 is used by individuals and HUFs who have income from business or professional services. This form is often referred to as a “master form” because it accommodates a broad range of income sources, including:

• Profits or losses from business or profession

• Income from house property

• Salary/pension

• Capital gains

• Income from other sources

• Income as a partner in a firm

So, if you are a freelancer, self-employed professional, shop owner, consultant, or have income from a partnership firm, ITR-3 is the form you should be using.

How to Use the Excel Utility

To file using the Excel utility for ITR-2 or ITR-3:

Visit the official Income Tax e-Filing Portal

Go to the “Downloads” section and select AY 2025–26

Download the respective Excel Utility (ITR-2 or ITR-3)

Extract the ZIP file and open the Excel sheet

Fill in all required fields related to income, deductions, taxes paid, and personal details

Log in to the portal and upload the completed file

Submit the form and verify it within 30 days using Aadhaar OTP, Net Banking, or by sending a signed ITR-V

Important Tips Before You File

• Choose the correct ITR form based on your income sources. Filing with the wrong form may result in rejection of your return.

• If you’re unsure about which form to use, consult with a certified tax advisor or use the portal’s help section.

• Keep all necessary documents ready, such as Form 16, capital gain statements, bank interest certificates, investment proofs, and TDS certificates.

Final Word

With the September 15 deadline approaching, taxpayers must begin preparing their documents and selecting the correct ITR forms. Whether you're a salaried employee with investment gains or a self-employed professional, choosing between ITR-2 and ITR-3 is crucial for a smooth and compliant return filing experience.

Now that these forms are live, don't delay — start filing early to avoid last-minute rush and errors.