To assist taxpayers in completing their pending tax-related tasks before the end of the financial year 2024-25, Income Tax Department offices across India will remain open from March 29 to March 31, 2025. Despite the weekend and the observance of Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, tax offices will continue operations to ensure smooth processing of financial transactions and compliance requirements.
Extended Working Hours to Ease Taxpayer Burden
In an official directive, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) confirmed that all income tax offices nationwide would stay open on March 29, 30, and 31 to assist individuals and businesses in completing their tax obligations.
The financial year concludes on March 31, 2025, making it the final deadline for various tax-related matters, including:
-
Government payments and settlements for FY 2024-25
-
Submission of pending tax documents
-
Filing of updated income tax returns for FY 2023-24
RBI Issues Special Banking Instructions
Alongside the Income Tax Department, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also instructed banks handling government transactions to remain operational on March 31. This measure ensures that taxpayers can successfully complete their financial transactions, government payments, and last-minute tax filings before the deadline.
To further streamline the process, the RBI has arranged special clearing operations for government receipts and payments, ensuring all transactions for the current financial year are properly accounted for within the designated timeframe.
Key Takeaways for Taxpayers
-
Income Tax Department offices will operate on March 29, 30, and 31, 2025, despite public holidays.
-
March 31, 2025, marks the final day for filing updated income tax returns for FY 2023-24.
-
Government-related payments and settlements must be completed by March 31.
-
Banks handling government transactions will also remain open on March 31 to facilitate tax payments.
-
Special banking clearances have been arranged to ensure smooth transactions.
Conclusion
The decision to keep tax offices open on holidays reflects the government’s commitment to helping taxpayers meet crucial financial deadlines. With extended banking and tax office services in place, individuals and businesses must take advantage of this opportunity to fulfill their tax obligations before the fiscal year ends.
