Insights · Direct tax
ITR forms for AY 2026-27: the key dates and what to gather now
CBDT notified the income-tax return forms for AY 2026-27 on 30 March 2026, ahead of the financial year. The early release lets taxpayers and the firm begin preparation before the 31 July 2026 due date.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes notified the income-tax return forms for Assessment Year 2026-27 — ITR-1 through ITR-7, together with ITR-V and ITR-U — on 30 March 2026. Notifying the forms before the start of the financial year allows return preparation to begin early, and the e-filing utilities for the simpler forms have followed.
Due dates
For individuals and other non-audit cases, the due date for AY 2026-27 is 31 July 2026. For assessees subject to audit it is generally 31 October 2026, and where transfer-pricing provisions apply, 30 November 2026. The tax-audit report is due one month before the relevant return.
What to gather now
- Form 16 / 16A and salary particulars
- The Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS)
- Capital-gains statements from brokers and mutual funds
- Bank and deposit interest certificates
- Details of deductions, and of foreign assets or income, where applicable
Early reconciliation of the AIS against the books typically removes most return-filing friction. The firm prepares and files returns across ITR-1 to ITR-7 and treats the AIS reconciliation as a standing step.
References
This article is for general information and is not professional advice. Thresholds and rules change; your position should be confirmed for your facts before it is acted upon.