Missed the income tax return filing deadline? Still have a refund stuck with the department? Condonation of delay ITR is a formal mechanism that allows taxpayers to request acceptance of late-filed returns or refund claims beyond the statutory time limits. This provision offers relief when genuine hardships prevented timely compliance.
Understanding Condonation of Delay in Income Tax
Condonation of delay is a legal provision under Section 119(2)(b) of the Income Tax Act. It empowers CBDT and designated authorities to accept returns, claims, or applications filed beyond the prescribed time limits when the taxpayer demonstrates genuine hardship.
When Condonation Applies
| Situation | Applicable For |
| Late ITR filing for refund | When return couldn't be filed within due date or belated deadline |
| Delayed refund claims | Refund applications beyond time limit under various sections |
| Carry forward of losses | When loss return couldn't be filed on time |
| Revision applications | Under Section 264 when deadline missed |
| Appeals | Late filing of appeals before CIT(A) or ITAT |
Valid Grounds for Delay Condonation Request
Not every delay qualifies for condonation. Your delay condonation request income tax authorities will consider must demonstrate genuine and reasonable cause. Check CBDT guidelines for acceptable grounds.
Accepted Grounds
- Medical emergencies: Serious illness of taxpayer or immediate family member
- Natural calamities: Floods, earthquakes, cyclones affecting the taxpayer's area
- Death in family: Death of taxpayer's close relative causing disruption
- Technical issues: Portal downtime or glitches documented by the department
- CA/professional default: Tax professional's negligence with supporting evidence
- Force majeure: Circumstances beyond control like civil unrest, lockdowns
Generally Not Accepted
- Busy schedule or work pressure
- Financial difficulties in paying tax
- Simple forgetfulness
- Delay in receiving Form 16
CBDT Condonation Filing: Authority Levels
| Claim/Refund Amount | Competent Authority |
| Up to Rs. 10 Lakhs | Principal Commissioner/Commissioner |
| Rs. 10 Lakhs to Rs. 50 Lakhs | Chief Commissioner |
| Above Rs. 50 Lakhs | CBDT |
Step-by-Step: How to File Condonation Request
Follow these steps to submit your condonation of delay ITR application through the Income Tax e-Filing Portal.
Step 1: Login to E-Filing Portal - Visit incometax.gov.in and login using your PAN.
Step 2: Access Condonation Request - Go to Services > Condonation Request. Select the type.
Step 3: Select Assessment Year - Choose the relevant assessment year.
Step 4: Provide Reason for Delay - Select the reason from dropdown and provide detailed explanation.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents - Attach relevant proof: medical certificates, disaster certificates, etc.
Step 6: Submit and Track - Review all details and submit. Track status under Services > Condonation Request.
For professional assistance with condonation applications, consider Income Tax Return Filing services from Patron Accounting.
Conclusion
Condonation of delay ITR provides valuable relief for taxpayers who missed deadlines due to genuine reasons. A well-prepared delay condonation request income tax authorities accept requires strong documentation and valid grounds. Don't delay further, as each passing day makes approval more difficult.
