Taxpayers who have deducted tax at source (TDS) in March 2026 under sections 194-IA, 194-IB, 194M or 194S must ensure timely filing of the prescribed challan-cum-statement. This is a critical compliance requirement for individuals, HUFs and specified persons making such payments.

Due Date for March 2026 TDS Compliance

The due date for furnishing the challan-cum-statement for tax deducted in March 2026 under sections 194-IA, 194-IB, 194M and 194S is 30 April 2026.

This timeline follows the statutory rule that such challan-cum-statements must be filed within 30 days from the end of the month in which tax is deducted.

Applicable Forms and Sections

The applicable forms for reporting TDS deducted in March 2026 are:

• Section 194-IA – TDS on purchase of immovable property (Form 26QB)
  • Applicable where consideration for transfer of immovable property is Rs. 50 lakh or more
  • TDS rate: 1% (subject to PAN and applicable provisions)
• Section 194-IB – TDS on rent by certain individuals/HUF (Form 26QC)
  • Applicable where monthly rent exceeds Rs. 50,000
  • TDS is generally deducted at 2% (subject to prevailing law and PAN compliance)
• Section 194M – TDS on payment to resident contractors/professionals by certain individuals/HUF (Form 26QD)
  • Applicable where aggregate payment exceeds Rs. 50 lakh in a financial year
  • TDS rate: 2%
• Section 194S – TDS on transfer of virtual digital assets by specified persons (Form 26QE)
  • Applicable on transfer of virtual digital assets, subject to prescribed thresholds
  • TDS rate: 1%

Legal Basis

The due date and filing mechanism are governed by Rule 30 of the Income-tax Rules, 1962:

• Rule 30(2A) read with Form 26QB – Section 194-IA
• Rule 30(2B) read with Form 26QC – Section 194-IB
• Rule 30(2C) read with Form 26QD – Section 194M
• Rule 30(2D) read with Form 26QE – Section 194S

These forms are challan-cum-statements, meaning tax payment and statement filing are completed together in a single compliance step.

Consequences of Delay

Delay in filing or payment may attract:

• Interest under section 201(1A) for late deduction or late payment
• Late fee under section 234E at Rs. 200 per day, subject to TDS amount
• Penalty under section 271H in eligible cases

Action Point for Taxpayers

Taxpayers should verify the nature of payment, applicable section, threshold, PAN details and correct form before filing. Timely compliance helps avoid interest, late fees and notices from the department.

For expert guidance on this topic, contact your tax professional today.