ITR
Asking for more time on a summons date
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Facts
You can ask for an adjournment in writing before the date, giving a genuine reason and a proposed new date. The officer decides whether to allow it.
Provisions and law
- Sec 131, Income-tax Act 1961 (now Sec 246, Income-tax Act 2025)Officers have civil court powers to summon, examine on oath and call for books and documents
- Sec 272A(1)(c), Income-tax Act 1961Penalty of ₹10,000 for each failure to attend or produce documents as required by summons (2025 Act number to be confirmed)
Analysis
A written request on time shows you are cooperating and protects against a penalty for non-attendance. Example: you are travelling abroad on the summons date for a pre-booked trip; send the ticket copy and propose a date two weeks later. Avoid repeated adjournments, which can look like avoidance. If the summons came through e-Proceedings, submit the request there.
Conclusion
- Write to the officer before the date
- Give a clear reason with proof
- Propose specific alternative dates
- Submit through e-Proceedings or by email to the official ID in the summons
- Keep the acknowledgement
A Savvy can do this for you
Summons, Sec 131 (now 246)
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