New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- Freelancers earning income through independent professional services need to ensure they file their income tax return (ITR) within the applicable deadline. For assessment year (AY) 2026-27, the due date is 31 August for taxpayers who are not required to get their accounts audited.

Nishant Shanker, Tax & Investments Expert, Navraj Global Advisors, shared key insights on ITR filing requirements for freelancers, including the applicable ITR forms and taxation methods.

Freelancers are generally treated as carrying on a profession or business under the Income Tax Act. The applicable ITR form depends on how they report their income.

For AY 2026-27, the due date is 31 August for non-audit cases and 31 October where a tax ...