Big update for taxpayers! The Income Tax Department has now released the Excel Utility of ITR-2 for AY 2026-27 on the Income Tax e-filing portal. Earlier, online filing and Excel utilities of ITR-1 and ITR-4 were already enabled from 15 May 2026.
This means taxpayers having capital gains, multiple house properties, foreign assets or other complex income sources can now start preparing and filing their Income Tax Returns using ITR-2 utility.
Earlier Released Utilities
The Income Tax Department had already enabled:
- Online filing of ITR-1 and ITR-4
- Excel Utility of ITR-1 and ITR-4
from 15 May 2026 on the e-filing portal.
Now with the release of ITR-2 Excel utility, a large category of taxpayers can begin return filing for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27).
Who Needs to File ITR-2?
ITR-2 is applicable mainly for individuals and HUFs who are not eligible to file ITR-1. Generally, taxpayers having following incomes use ITR-2:
- Capital Gains from shares, mutual funds or property
- More than one house property
- Foreign assets or foreign income
- Director in a company
- Investments in unlisted shares
- Income above ₹50 lakh
- Agricultural income above ₹5,000
However, taxpayers having business or professional income cannot use ITR-2.
Enroll in our Income Tax, ITR, TDS Course
Important Points Before Filing
Even though utilities are now available, taxpayers should avoid rushing to file returns immediately. Experts are advising taxpayers to wait till AIS, TDS details and Form 16 data are properly updated on the portal.
Before filing, ensure:
- Form 26AS is checked
- AIS/TIS is reconciled
- Form 16 and Form 16A are received
- Capital gains statements are verified
- Bank interest and dividend income are matched
Where to Download Utility?
Taxpayers can download the latest utilities from the official Income Tax portal:
Income Tax Portal Downloads Page
Due Date for AY 2026-27
For most non-audit taxpayers, the due date for filing ITR is 31 July 2026.
