57th GST Council meeting: what was recommended
The GST Council met on 8 October 2026 and recommended process reforms for registration, returns, refunds and adjudication, plus a few rate clarifications.
On 28 September 2026 the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) announced an extension for taxpayers whose accounts must be audited under the Income-tax Act, 1961. The extension was given effect through CBDT Circular No. 07/2026.
The new dates
- Tax audit report: 21 October 2026 (earlier 30 September 2026)
- Return of income for audit cases: 21 November 2026 (earlier 31 October 2026)
Who it applies to
The extension covers the category of taxpayers whose return was due on 31 October 2026 because their accounts are required to be audited. It does not move every AY 2026-27 date, so check which category you fall in before relying on it.
What we suggest doing now
- Finalise books and share the trial balance with your auditor this week.
- Reconcile turnover and TDS with AIS and Form 26AS before the audit report is signed.
- File the audit report first, then the return, keeping a margin before 21 November.
- Pay any balance self-assessment tax early.
Need help with your audit or return? Send us an enquiry or WhatsApp us.
