ITR-6 Form: Step-by-Step Guide, Due Dates, and Latest Updates for AY 2025-26

The Income Tax Return Form 6 (ITR-6) is specifically designed for companies and certain business entities to report their income and calculate tax liability. For the Assessment Year 2025-26 (Financial Year 2024-25), companies must adhere to specific filing guidelines and deadlines to ensure compliance with tax regulations. This article explores everything you need to know about ITR-6, from its applicability to filing procedures and the latest updates for the current assessment year.

Also Read-ITR 7- How to file ITR-7 Online for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)

ITR-6 is mandatory for domestic companies, foreign companies with Indian-sourced income, and partnership firms (including LLPs) that don’t claim exemptions under Section 11 of the Income Tax Act. The form requires detailed reporting of income from various sources, including business operations, capital gains, and other income streams. Understanding the intricacies of this form is crucial for corporate entities to fulfill their tax obligations accurately and on time.

What is ITR-6 Form and Its Applicability.

ITR-6 is an income tax return form specifically designed for companies and certain business entities. It serves as a comprehensive reporting mechanism for declaring income earned during the financial year and calculating the applicable tax liability. The form is structured to capture detailed financial information, ensuring transparent and accurate tax assessment.

Who Should File ITR-6?

• Domestic Companies: Companies registered and having their place of business in India, governed by Indian tax laws.
• Foreign Companies: Entities registered outside India but deriving income from Indian sources.
• Partnership Firms: Including Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) that don’t claim exemptions under Section 11.
• Companies with Business or Professional Income: Any company earning income through business operations or professional services.

Who Cannot File ITR-6?

Companies whose income is derived from property held for charitable or religious purposes, covered under Section 11 of the Income Tax Act, are not eligible to use ITR-6. These entities must use alternative forms designated for organizations claiming such exemptions.

Key Features of ITR-6 Form.

• No Exemption Under Section 11: The form is specifically for companies and firms not claiming tax benefits under section 11.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Requires detailed reporting of income, expenses, and tax calculations from various sources including business operations and capital gains.
• Tax Computation: Contains dedicated sections for calculating tax liability according to applicable corporate tax rates.
• Specialized Schedules: Includes numerous schedules for reporting specific types of income, deductions, and other financial information.

Latest Updates for ITR-6 in Assessment Year 2025-26.

• Budget 2025 Changes: The Finance Act 2025 has introduced modifications that are now incorporated into the ITR-6 form.
• Extended Timeline for Updated Returns: The time limit for filing updated income tax returns has been extended from 2 years to 4 years from the end of the relevant assessment year.
• New Tax Regime Changes: Budget 2025 proposed new tax slab rates under section 115BAC (New Tax Regime), which companies should be aware of when calculating their tax liability.
• Enhanced TDS Thresholds: Effective from April 2025, thresholds for various TDS sections have been increased, affecting how companies report TDS in ITR-6.
• Additional Disclosure Requirements: Companies now need to provide information such as Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), MSME registration, and disclosure of winnings from online games taxable under section 115BBJ.

Due Dates for Filing ITR-6 for AY 2025-26.

The due dates for filing ITR-6 for the Assessment Year 2025-26 vary depending on the audit requirements of the company:

• Companies Requiring Audit Under the Income Tax Act: Due Date: October 31, 2025
• Companies with International or Specified Domestic Transactions (Form 3CEB): Due Date: November 30, 2025
• Companies Not Requiring Audit (Non-audit Cases): Due Date: July 31, 2025

Important Timelines for ITR-6 Filing.

Note: A penalty may be applicable for filing returns after the due date.

ITR-6 Form Structure Table.

Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the structure and key schedules of the ITR-6 Form, as relevant for companies filing their income tax returns in India for AY 2025-26. This table helps visualize the main components and what each part or schedule covers.

The ITR-6 form is divided into two main parts with numerous schedules. Understanding this structure is essential for accurate completion:

Part A: General Information and Financial Statements.

1. Basic Information: Name, PAN, address, Corporate Identity Number (CIN), date of incorporation, contact details.
2. Balance Sheet (Part A-BS): Shareholder’s funds, non-current and current liabilities, assets and capital structure.
3. Profit and Loss Account (Part A-P&L): Income and expenditure details, credits and debits, provisions made by the company.
4. Manufacturing Account (Part A-Manufacturing): Opening and closing inventory, cost of goods produced.
5. Trading Account (Part A-Trading): Details of trading operations, purchases and sales
6. Other Information (Part A-OI): Additional financial information, disallowances and other relevant details.

Part B: Computation and Tax Liability

1. Computation of Total Income (Part B-TI): Income from various sources, deductions and exemptions, calculation of taxable income.
2. Computation of Tax Liability (Part B-TTI): Tax on total income, relief under various sections, interest and fees payable, final amount payable or refundable.

Key Schedules in ITR-6.

The form contains 46 schedules covering various aspects of income and taxation. Some critical schedules include:

• Schedule BP: Computation of income under “profits and gains from business or profession”
• Schedule CG: Details of capital gains.
• Schedule OS: Income from other sources (dividends, interest, etc.).
• Schedule MAT: Computation of Minimum Alternate Tax under section 115JB.
• Schedule DPM and DOA: Depreciation calculations.
• Schedule CYLA, BFLA, and CFL: Loss adjustments and carry forward.
• Schedule VIA: Deductions under Chapter VIA.
• Schedule FA: Foreign assets and income.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing ITR-6.

Filing ITR-6 involves a systematic process. Here’s a detailed guide to help companies navigate through each step:

Step 1: Registration on the E-Filing Portal.

• Visit the Income Tax e-filing portal.
• Register with your PAN, email ID, and mobile number.
• Ensure your contact details are updated for receiving important communications.

Step 2: Login to the Portal.

• Enter your credentials (User ID and password).
• Complete the two-factor authentication (if enabled).
• Use recommended browsers like Edge, Chrome, or Firefox for security.

Step 3: Select the Appropriate ITR Form.

• Navigate to the “e-File” section.
• Click on “Income Tax Return”.
• Select “ITR-6” from the available options.

Step 4: Fill in All Required Details.

• Enter basic company information.
• Complete all applicable schedules.
• Provide financial data as per your audited accounts.
• Ensure accuracy in all entries to avoid discrepancies.

Step 5: Validate the Information.

• Use the “Validate” function to check for errors or inconsistencies.
• Review any warnings or suggestions provided by the system.
• Make necessary corrections before proceeding.

Step 6: Calculate and Pay Taxes.

• Review the tax calculation.
• Pay any outstanding tax liability using the e-payment options.
• Keep payment confirmation details for reference.

Step 7: Submit the Form.

• Review all entries one final time.
• Submit the form electronically.
• Note the acknowledgment number for future reference.

Step 8: E-Verify the Return.

• Complete the verification process using any of these methods:
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
  • Aadhaar OTP
  • Electronic Verification Code (EVC)
  • Net banking verification
• Alternatively, send a signed physical copy of ITR-V to CPC, Bengaluru within 120 days of filing.

Important Tips for Accurate ITR-6 Filing.

• Gather All Required Documents: Audited financial statements, tax audit reports, TDS/TCS certificates, previous year’s returns, bank statements, investment proofs.
• Follow the Proper Sequence: Fill Part A, then schedules, then Part B, and finally verification.
• Ensure Consistency: Cross-check figures across different schedules.
• Review Tax Calculations: Verify all deductions and credits.
• File Before Deadline: Submit well before the due date to avoid last-minute issues.
• Maintain Documentary Evidence: Keep all supporting documents safely.
• Consult Professional Help if Needed: Seek assistance from qualified tax professionals for complex cases.

Latest Studies on Corporate Tax Compliance.

Recent data from the Income Tax Department shows that over 7.28 crore ITRs were filed by July 31, 2024, marking a 7.5% growth compared to the previous year, indicating increased awareness and compliance among taxpayers, including corporate entities.

Additionally, the New Tax Regime has been widely adopted, with approximately 72% of taxpayers filing under this system during the last assessment year. Companies should evaluate both tax regimes to determine which is more beneficial for their specific circumstances.

Professional Expertise: Chartered Accountants in Corporate Taxation

Given the complexity of ITR-6 filing, many companies rely on chartered accountants specializing in corporate taxation. The demand for these professionals has led to attractive remuneration packages:

• Fresher CAs: ₹4.5 lakhs to ₹6 lakhs per annum
• Campus Placements: Average packages increased from ₹8 lakhs to ₹11.50 lakhs per annum in 2025
• Big 4 Accounting Firms: ₹6-8 lakhs for freshers and up to ₹23 lakhs for CAs with 4-5 years experience
• Multinational Corporations: ₹18-25 lakhs per annum
• Experienced Professionals: ₹80 lakhs to ₹2 crores annually

This earning potential reflects the critical role tax professionals play in corporate tax compliance and optimization.

Budget 2025: Key Changes Affecting Corporate Taxation

• Extended Timeline for Updated Returns: Updated returns can now be filed up to 4 years from the end of the relevant assessment year.
• Tax Slab Revisions: New tax regime slabs have been restructured, affecting tax liability calculations.
• Enhanced TDS Thresholds: Higher thresholds reduce compliance burden for smaller transactions.
• Additional Disclosure Requirements: New reporting for specific transactions and business arrangements.
• Legal Entity Identifier (LEI): Required for non-individuals for refunds exceeding ₹50 crore.

Companies should review these changes to understand their impact on tax planning and compliance for AY 2025-26.

Frequently Asked Questions About ITR-6.

Is filing ITR-6 mandatory for all companies?

Yes, filing ITR-6 is mandatory for all companies governed by the Income Tax Act, except those claiming exemption under Section 11. Failure to file returns can result in penalties and legal consequences.

Can a company file ITR-6 after the due date?

Yes, companies can file a belated return after the due date but before December 31, 2025. However, this may incur penalty charges and interest on any tax liability.

What happens if there are errors in the filed ITR-6?

If errors are discovered after filing, companies can file a revised return by December 31, 2025. Additionally, an updated return can be filed within 4 years from the end of the assessment year.

Can a taxpayer file a revised return with the New Tax Regime if the original return was filed under the Old Tax Regime?

Yes, if the taxpayer has submitted Form 10IB, 10IC, or 10ID within the due date, they can file a revised return and choose the new tax regime.

What documents are needed for filing ITR-6?

Essential documents include audited financial statements, tax audit reports, TDS/TCS certificates, bank statements, investment details, and previous year’s return copies.

Is e-filing mandatory for ITR-6?

Yes, electronic filing of ITR-6 is mandatory for all companies. Physical submission of returns is not accepted.

How do I calculate taxable income for ITR-6?

Calculating taxable income involves aggregating income from all sources (business, investments, etc.), deducting eligible expenses related to business income, and applying applicable tax rates to determine the final tax liability.

What are the penalties for late filing of ITR-6?

Late filing can attract penalties under Section 234F, and interest may be charged on any unpaid tax liability under Sections 234A, 234B, and 234C of the Income Tax Act.

How long should supporting documents be retained after filing ITR-6?

It’s advisable to maintain all supporting documents for at least 8 years, as the Income Tax Department can initiate assessment or reassessment proceedings within this period.

Can foreign companies with operations in India file ITR-6?

Yes, foreign companies deriving income from Indian sources are required to file ITR-6 to report their Indian income and pay applicable taxes.

In conclusion, ITR-6 is a comprehensive form that requires meticulous attention to detail. Companies must stay updated with the latest tax regulations, adhere to filing deadlines, and ensure accurate reporting to maintain compliance with tax laws. With the new changes introduced in Budget 2025 and extended timelines for updated returns, companies have both additional flexibility and responsibilities in managing their tax affairs for Assessment Year 2025-26.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or tax advice. Please consult a qualified tax professional or chartered accountant for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

C.K. Gupta

Hello, I am C.K. Gupta Founder of Taxgst.in, a seasoned finance professional with a Master of Commerce degree and over 20 years of experience in accounting and finance. My extensive career has been dedicated to mastering the intricacies of financial management, tax consultancy, and strategic planning. Throughout my professional journey, I have honed my skills in financial analysis, tax planning, and compliance, ensuring that all practices adhere to the latest financial regulations. My expertise also extends to auditing, where I focus on maintaining accuracy and integrity in financial reporting. I am passionate about using my knowledge to provide insightful and reliable financial advice, helping businesses optimize their financial strategies and achieve their economic goals. At Taxgst.in, I aim to share valuable insights that assist our readers in navigating the complex world of taxes and finance with ease.