Advance Tax March 15 2026 Deadline: Pay Online via Challan 280 Guide
March 15, 2026 marks the final advance tax installment deadline for FY 2025-26 – pay 100% of your estimated liability to avoid 1% monthly interest under Sections 234B/C. Advance tax applies to anyone with >₹10,000 tax liability after TDS; senior citizens (60+) without business income are exempt..
Who Needs to Pay Advance Tax?
Mandatory if estimated tax liability ≥₹10,000 post-TDS/TCS:
- Salaried with capital gains/rentals
- Freelancers/business owners
- Lottery/capital gains earners file:1
Exempt:
- Senior citizens ≥60 years
- No business/profession income file:1
Advance Tax Schedule FY 2025-26
|
Installment |
Due Date |
Cumulative % |
|
1st |
Jun 15, 2025 |
15% |
|
2nd |
Sep 15, 2025 |
45% |
|
3rd |
Dec 15, 2025 |
75% |
|
4th (Final) |
Mar 15, 2026 |
100% |
Step-by-Step: Pay Online (Income Tax Portal)
Method 1: Without Login (Quickest)
- Visit incometax.gov.in → e-Pay Tax (homepage/quick links)
- Enter PAN → Mobile → OTP verification
- Select AY 2026-27 → (100) Advance Tax (Current Year)
- Fill Tax, Surcharge, Cess, Interest (if any)
- Choose Bank/Payment Mode (Net Banking/UPI/NEFT)
- Validate → Pay Now → Download Challan 280 (BSR + serial #)
Method 2: Login (Dashboard View)
- Login with PAN/password
- e-File → e-Pay Tax → New Payment
- Income Tax → AY 2026-27 → Advance Tax (100)
- Enter amounts → Pay Now → Confirmation file:1
Pro Tip: Challan valid 30 days; save PDF for ITR.
Penalties for Missing March 15
- Section 234B: 1% p.m. on <90% tax by Mar 31
- Section 234C: 1% p.m. on installment shortfalls
- Even 1-day delay = full month interest file:1
Example: ₹50,000 shortfall after Mar 15 → ₹500/month till Jul 31 ITR.
FAQs – Advance Tax March 15 Deadline
Q1: Who is exempt from advance tax?
Resident senior citizens (60+) without business/profession income; tax liability <₹10,000 post-TDS.
Q2: What if I miss March 15 by 1 day?
1% interest for full month under 234B/C; pay immediately to stop compounding.
Q3: How to calculate advance tax amount?
Total estimated tax - TDS already deducted; use IT portal calculator or broker tools.
Q4: Is Challan 280 valid forever?
No, only 30 days from generation; regenerate for payment.
Q5: Can I pay advance tax via UPI?
Yes, through e-Pay Tax portal (Net Banking/UPI/NEFT/debit cards).
Q6: Where to check paid advance tax?
Form 26AS or AIS portal (instant reflection post-payment).
Q7: Does LTCG require advance tax?
Yes, if realized before Mar 15; estimate 12.5% LTCG tax payable.
