Extension Granted Due to E-filing Portal Glitches

In a significant relief for deductors, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has announced an extension for the deadline to issue Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) certificates for the third quarter of Financial Year 2025-26. The new deadline for issuing TDS certificates (Form 16A) for the quarter ending December 31, 2025, is now March 31, 2026.

The extension comes in response to representations received by the CBDT regarding persistent technical glitches on the income tax e-filing portal. Deductors were reportedly facing difficulties in generating and issuing these crucial certificates within the previously prescribed timeframes.

“Representations have been received by the Central Board of Direct Taxes regarding delay in issuance of TDS certificates for the quarter ending 31st December, 2025, due to technical glitches on the e-filing portal. On account of such glitches, deductors have faced difficulties in generating and issuing the certificates within the prescribed time.”

This move by the CBDT aims to alleviate genuine hardship faced by those responsible for tax deductions, ensuring that deductors can issue certificates smoothly without the worry of penalties. It also helps deductees receive the necessary information to accurately file their income tax returns.

Impact on Taxpayers

• Deductors: Have additional time until March 31, 2026, to issue Form 16A for Q3 FY 2025-26. Certificates issued within this extended period will be considered timely.
• Deductees: Will have their TDS certificates for Q3 FY 2025-26 available by the extended deadline, enabling them to verify TDS details and plan their advance tax payments or claim refunds accordingly.

ET Bureau

Source Correspondent

ET Bureau is a research contributor specializing in TDS Update.