Patna: The Income Tax Department has enabled online filing of Income Tax Return (ITR)-2 and released the Excel utility for Assessment Year (AY) 2026–27 on its e-filing portal.
The move allows eligible taxpayers to file their returns either directly through the portal or by using the offline Excel utility and uploading the completed form.
Filing options available
Taxpayers can now access the ITR-2 filing facility by logging into the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal. Those preferring offline preparation can download the Excel utility, complete the return, and upload it online.
According to tax professionals, both filing methods are available for AY 2026–27.
Relief for eligible taxpayers
The activation of the filing facility is expected to benefit salaried employees, pensioners and other eligible taxpayers who are preparing to submit their income tax returns for the financial year 2025–26.
The online and offline options are intended to simplify the return filing process and improve accessibility for users.
Who should file ITR-2?
Chartered accountants say ITR-2 is meant for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) whose income includes sources such as house property, capital gains, foreign income or other income streams in addition to salary.
Taxpayers are advised to verify the applicable return form before filing.
Deadline remains 31 July
The due date for filing income tax returns for Financial Year 2025–26 (Assessment Year 2026–27) is July 31.
Tax experts have advised taxpayers to complete the process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute congestion and potential technical issues on the portal.
Filing may be required in some cases despite lower income
While individuals with annual income below Rs. 2.5 lakh are generally not required to file an income tax return, tax professionals note that filing may still be necessary in certain situations depending on eligibility criteria, tax provisions and rebate-related requirements under the applicable tax regime.
Push towards digital compliance
The availability of online filing and the Excel utility is expected to help millions of taxpayers complete their returns more efficiently, supporting the government’s broader push towards digital tax administration and compliance.
