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

Step-by-Step: Pay Online (Income Tax Portal)

Method 1: Without Login (Quickest)

1. Visit incometax.gov.in → e-Pay Tax (homepage/quick links)
2. Enter PAN → Mobile → OTP verification
3. Select AY 2026-27 → (100) Advance Tax (Current Year)
4. Fill Tax, Surcharge, Cess, Interest (if any)
5. Choose Bank/Payment Mode (Net Banking/UPI/NEFT)
6. Validate → Pay Now → Download Challan 280 (BSR + serial #)​

Method 2: Login (Dashboard View)

1. Login with PAN/password
2. e-File → e-Pay Tax → New Payment
3. Income Tax → AY 2026-27 → Advance Tax (100)
4. 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.