Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is a critical component of India’s tax collection framework. It ensures timely tax collection and facilitates accurate reporting to the Income Tax Department. For every business, organization, or deductor, timely TDS return filing is not just a legal obligation but also a key compliance factor that avoids penalties and interest.
This blog provides a detailed calendar of quarterly TDS return due dates, filing formats, and the procedural guidelines applicable across India. Businesses operating in Kerala can also avail dedicated TDS return filing support from OurTaxPartner.com, a leading compliance consultancy.
What is a TDS Return?
A TDS return is a quarterly statement submitted by the deductor to the Income Tax Department. It contains details of TDS deducted, the PAN of the deductee, TDS payment details, and the nature of the payment. These returns must be submitted in specific formats and within the due dates prescribed by the tax authorities.
Who Needs to File TDS Returns?
- Employers deducting TDS on salaries
- Businesses deducting TDS on contractor payments, rent, professional fees, etc.
- Banks deducting TDS on interest paid
- Any entity making payments requiring TDS deduction under the Income Tax Act
Quarterly TDS Return Filing Calendar
The Income Tax Department requires that TDS returns be filed quarterly. Below is the official TDS return filing calendar along with forms applicable for each category.
| Quarter | Period Covered | Form 24Q (Salaries) | Form 26Q (Non-Salaries) | Form 27Q (Non-resident payments) | Form 27EQ (TCS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | April 1 – June 30 | 31st July | 31st July | 31st July | 15th July |
| Q2 | July 1 – September 30 | 31st October | 31st October | 31st October | 15th October |
| Q3 | October 1 – December 31 | 31st January | 31st January | 31st January | 15th January |
| Q4 | January 1 – March 31 | 31st May | 31st May | 31st May | 15th May |
TDS Return Filing Formats
The TDS return is filed in electronic format using the File Validation Utility (FVU) provided by NSDL. Each form has a specific purpose:
- Form 24Q: For TDS on salary payments under Section 192.
- Form 26Q: For TDS on non-salary payments to residents (contractors, rent, interest, etc.).
- Form 27Q: For TDS on payments to non-resident Indians or foreign entities.
- Form 27EQ: For Tax Collected at Source (TCS) filings.
Important Points to Remember
- Returns must be filed online using valid DSC or through TRACES portal login.
- PAN of deductee and TAN of deductor must be valid and active.
- Quarterly filing is mandatory, even if there is a nil deduction.
- Returns must be verified using e-verification methods like DSC or Aadhaar OTP.
Consequences of Missing the Due Dates
Failure to file TDS returns on time can result in the following penalties:
- Late Fee under Section 234E: ₹200 per day of delay, up to the TDS amount.
- Penalty under Section 271H: ₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000 for incorrect or non-filing.
- Ineligibility to generate Form 16/16A for employees or vendors.
How OurTaxPartner.com Can Help
OurTaxPartner.com offers expert quarterly TDS return filing services for businesses and organizations in Kerala and across India. Services include:
- Preparation and online submission of TDS returns in correct formats
- Timely reminders for upcoming filing due dates
- PAN and TDS reconciliation to avoid mismatch errors
- DSC-based e-verification and TRACES coordination
Whether you’re a salaried employer, contractor, or SME in Kerala, our tax professionals ensure seamless compliance with the TDS return filing cycle.
Conclusion
Adhering to the quarterly TDS return filing calendar is essential to avoid penalties, stay compliant, and build trust with employees and vendors. With a clear understanding of due dates and formats, you can manage TDS obligations efficiently. If you’re seeking expert guidance or need help with bulk return filing, OurTaxPartner.com is your go-to partner for compliance in Kerala and beyond.
