Income Tax Return Filing Statistics in India
How many Indians file their ITR, which tax regime they choose, and when they actually file — the latest official numbers, the year-on-year trend, and what the data means for your own filing.
The headline numbers
ITRs filed, year on year
Filing has grown steadily — from 5.83 crore to a record 7.3 crore (figures shown as filed by the due date, in crore).
AY 2025-26 set a record, with over 7.3 crore returns filed by the extended deadline of 16 September 2025 — just above the previous year. Filing for AY 2026-27 is now underway; this page updates as the Income Tax Department releases data. See all income tax due dates for the current season.
The new regime is now the default choice
In AY 2024-25, of the 7.28 crore ITRs filed, the split was decisive — and the shift has only continued as the new regime's slabs and rebate improved.
Not sure which regime is cheaper for you? Compare both in the income tax calculator — for business income, remember Form 10-IEA must be filed by the due date to keep the old regime.
First-time filers keep joining
AY 2024-25 saw 58.57 lakh first-time ITR filers — a strong signal that the tax base is widening as digital filing, pre-filled forms and AIS/26AS integration make compliance simpler. More earners are formalising their income each year.
India files at the last minute — don't
On 31 July 2024, nearly 70 lakh returns were filed in a single day. That late-day crush is exactly when the portal slows, sessions drop and errors creep in.
Filing early avoids the rush, speeds your refund, and keeps you clear of the late-filing penalty. Know your due date and beat it.
Three takeaways from the numbers
File early, not at the deadline
With crores filing in the final days, early filers get a smoother portal, faster refunds and time to fix errors.
The new regime is the new normal
Most filers now choose the new regime — but old can still win with high deductions. Run both before you decide.
Compliance is rising, scrutiny with it
A wider tax base and AIS/26AS matching mean accuracy matters. A clean, on-time return is the safest filing.
Calculate it, then file it
Sources & notes
- Figures are drawn from official statements of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), the Income Tax Department and the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
- Year-on-year totals are stated as ITRs filed by the due date for each assessment year. AY 2025-26 saw a record of over 7.3 crore by the extended deadline of 16 September 2025.
- Counting belated and updated returns, total ITRs filed within a financial year have crossed 9 crore — higher than the by-due-date figure.
- The detailed regime split, first-time filer and peak-day figures are for AY 2024-25, the most recent year with a full CBDT breakdown.
- AY 2026-27 filing is in progress (ITR-1, ITR-2 and ITR-4 are live) — this page is updated as fresh data is published.
Income tax return filing statistics — FAQs
How many income tax returns were filed for AY 2024-25?
A record 7.28 crore ITRs were filed for AY 2024-25 by the 31 July 2024 due date — about 7.5% more than the previous year's by-July figure.
How many ITRs were filed for AY 2025-26?
A record of over 7.3 crore ITRs were filed for AY 2025-26 by the extended deadline of 16 September 2025 — the highest ever, just above the previous year's 7.28 crore. Counting belated and updated returns, the full-year figure is higher still.
What percentage of taxpayers chose the new tax regime?
In AY 2024-25, about 72% of filers (5.27 crore) chose the new regime, against 28% (2.01 crore) on the old regime — and the share has kept rising.
How many first-time filers were there?
AY 2024-25 saw 58.57 lakh first-time ITR filers, reflecting a steadily widening tax base.
When do most people file their ITR?
Filing peaks right at the deadline — nearly 70 lakh ITRs were filed on the single peak day in 2024. Filing early avoids the portal rush and the late-filing penalty.
Where can I see official ITR filing statistics?
The Income Tax Department, CBDT and PIB publish filing figures each season. We summarise the latest here and update the page as new data is released.
Join the 7 crore — the easy way
Crores file every year; the calm ones file early with a CA. Send your documents on WhatsApp and we pick the right ITR, choose the best regime, and file on time.
File my ITR with a CAStatistics on this page are compiled from public statements of the CBDT, the Income Tax Department and the PIB and are for general information only — not tax, legal or financial advice. Figures are as reported at the time of writing and may be revised. Verify current data with official sources, or consult a Chartered Accountant, before relying on it.