Life happens. Maybe you missed declaring a capital gain, left out a deduction, or entered the wrong bank account number in your tax return. Fortunately, Section 139(5) offers relief—it lets you file a revised return to correct mistakes. This tax provision offers flexibility and ensures compliance without incurring penalties, provided you adhere to its rules.
✅ What Is Section 139(5)?
Section 139(5) allows taxpayers who have filed their original income tax return under Section 139(1) (or a belated return under Section 139(4)) to file a revised return. The aim? To correct errors, omissions, or missed claims before the deadline or before the assessment is completed
So, whether you missed reporting ₹10,000 in interest income or forgot to claim ₹50,000 in 80C deductions, Section 139(5) gives you a second chance.
🕒 Who Is Eligible?
Eligible taxpayers include:
- Individuals, HUFs, firms, companies, & others
- Those who filed an original return on time or a belated return
- Even those who missed the deadline but filed under Section 139(4) can still revise
⏳ What’s the Deadline?
You can file a revised return:
- On or before December 31 of the relevant Assessment Year, or
- Before the completion of the assessment under Section 143(3), whichever is earlier
Example: For FY 2024‑25 (AY 2025‑26), the deadline is 31 December 2025, unless the assessment closes earlier."
🔄 Can You Revise Multiple Times?
Yes, there's no limit on the number of revisions—provided they're filed within the allowed time . Each revised return replaces the previous one.
🧾 Why File a Revised Return?
Here are common reasons:
- Missed income: interest, rent, etc.
- Unclaimed deductions: under Sections 80C, 80D, 80G
- Bank or PAN/Aadhaar errors
- Incorrect ITR form
- Mathematical or clerical mistakes
- Response to IT dept notice
📝 How to File a Revised Return
- Log in to the Income‑Tax e‑filing portal
- Select “Revised Return” under Section 139(5)
- Enter the original ITR acknowledgment number & date
- Make corrections—add income, claim missed deductions, fix details
- Submit and e‑verify via Aadhaar OTP, EVC, or net‑banking
🚫 After Assessment, Can You Still Revise?
No. Once the assessment under Section 143(3) is complete, you can’t revise your return under 139(5) . Your final option may then be an updated return under Section 139(8A), which comes with penalties & restrictions.
🔍 What About Belated Returns?
Belated returns filed under Section 139(4) are also eligible for revision under 139(5), within the same deadline . Good news if you filed late!"
💸 Penalty & Interest Implications
Filing a revised return itself is free of penalties. But, if your revision increases tax liability, interest under Sections 234A/B/C may apply. And late original filing under 139(4)? You’ll face fees under Section 234F.
📌 Key Points to Remember
- Always provide the original ITR’s acknowledgment number
- Use the same ITR form as originally filed
- Ensure timely e-verification of the revised return
- Correct all errors—mismatches may invite notices
- Upload supporting documents if required
- Once the deadline passes or the assessment is completed, no more revisions
🔎 Real-Life Example
You filed your FY 2023‑24 return but forgot to include ₹50,000 interest income in March. In June, you log in, select “Revised Return,” enter your earlier acknowledgment, add the interest income, pay any extra tax interest, e-verify, & wait. Done, within the 139(5) window.
Final Thoughts
Section 139(5) is a powerful safety net. It allows three extra months beyond the due date for corrections, ensuring that genuine mistakes don’t land you in trouble. You can amend income, deductions, bank details—even switch ITR forms—multiple times, all within the allowed timeframe. Just remember: once the assessment is done, this option closes.
Missed income or deductions? Need help filing an accurate revised return under Section 139(5)? At Callmyca.com, our expert CAs can help you correct your ITR seamlessly—no hassle, full compliance. Click now to fix your tax return and secure peace of mind!
