Introduction:

Filing income tax can feel complex, especially for businesses that have moved beyond sole proprietorships or partnerships. 

This is where ITR-6 comes into play.

If you run a Private Limited MSME, then ITR-6 is the income tax return form you’ll most likely be using. 

This form is meant for companies registered under the Companies Act that do not claim exemption under Section 11 (that’s for charitable entities).

Now, why is this important? 

Because if you miss filing the right form or make errors, you risk penalties and scrutiny from tax departments. 

Also, a clean ITR-6 helps improve your credit score, investor trust, and even eligibility for business loans.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ITR-6, what it is, who needs to file it, documents required, deadlines, and smart filing tips.

Let’s help your Private Limited MSME stay compliant, save time, and avoid last-minute stress.

1. Who is required to file ITR-6 in India, and how is it different from other ITR forms?

If you run a Private Limited MSME, then you will most likely need to file ITR-6. 

This form is specially designed for companies registered under the Companies Act in India. 

So, if your business is a Private Limited Company, and it is earning income from any source (business, investments, etc.), this is the return you must file.

However, there is one exception. 

If your company is registered as a charitable or religious trust and claims exemption under Section 11, then you should not file ITR-6. 

Such entities usually file ITR-7.

Now, how is ITR-6 different from other ITR forms?

• ITR-1 to ITR-4 are meant for individuals, freelancers, professionals, and sole proprietors.

   

• ITR-5 is used by partnerships and LLPs.

   

• But ITR-6 is only for companies. You can’t use it if you’re running your business as an individual, partnership, or LLP.

   

In simple terms:

If you have a registered private limited company and you’re not claiming tax exemption as a charitable entity, then ITR-6 is mandatory.

2. What are the steps for a private limited MSME to file ITR-6 correctly in 2025?

Filing ITR-6 is an important part of tax compliance for Private Limited MSMEs. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it right:

Step 1: Prepare all financial documents

Before you start, gather your:

• Profit and Loss statement

   

• Balance Sheet

   

• Audit report (if turnover exceeds limits)

   

• Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) details

   

• GST returns (if applicable)

   

Step 2: Check the audit requirement

If your company’s turnover is above ₹1 crore, or you meet other audit conditions, you must get your accounts audited. You will also need to file:

• Form 3CA (audit report format for companies)

   

• Form 3CD (audit details like expenses, loans, depreciation)

   

These must be uploaded and digitally signed by a chartered accountant.

Step 3: Log in to the Income Tax e-Filing portal

Go to www.incometax.gov.in. Log in using your company’s PAN and password.

Step 4: Choose the correct assessment year and select ITR-6

For FY 2024–25, the assessment year will be 2025–26. Choose ITR-6 from the available forms.

Step 5: Fill out the ITR-6 form online or offline

You can either:

• Fill it out online through the portal, or

   

• Download the Java/Excel utility, fill it offline, then upload it.

   

Fill in all required details like:

• Company details

   

• Income from business/profession

   

• Deductions

   

• Taxes paid

   

• Schedule BP, P&L, Balance Sheet, etc.

   

Step 6: Attach required forms and reports

If your company is audited, make sure you attach:

• Form 3CA

   

• Form 3CD

   

• Audit reports

   

Step 7: Use Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

ITR-6 must be verified using a Digital Signature Certificate. 

This is mandatory for companies. Make sure your DSC is valid and registered on the income tax portal.

Step 8: Submit the return

Once everything is filled and verified, submit your ITR-6 and keep the acknowledgment for records.

Step 9: Reconcile with GST and TDS

Finally, ensure your reported turnover in ITR-6 matches your GSTR-3B and TDS details. This helps avoid future notices or mismatches.

By following these steps carefully, your Private Limited MSME can file ITR-6 smoothly and avoid penalties.

3. What documents and financial statements are needed to file ITR-6 for a company?

If your Private Limited MSME is filing ITR-6, you need to keep several documents ready. 

These are mostly related to your company’s financials and taxes. 

Here’s a clear and simple list of what you’ll need:

1. Audited Financial Statements

If your business turnover is above the audit threshold, your books must be audited by a Chartered Accountant. You will need:

• Audit report (Form 3CA and 3CD)

   

• Signed Balance Sheet

   

• Profit and Loss Statement

   

These documents must reflect the financial year’s complete picture.

2. Trial Balance and Ledger Statements

These help in preparing various schedules required in the ITR-6 form, such as:

• Capital accounts

   

• Loan accounts

   

• Expense categories

   

3. Depreciation Schedule

Companies must calculate depreciation as per the Companies Act and the Income Tax Act. 

This schedule shows the asset value decrease over time, which helps in claiming the correct deduction.

4. TDS Summary

You should keep a record of:

• All TDS certificates received

   

• Form 26AS from the income tax portal

   

• TDS Reconciliation Analysis and Correction Enabling System (TRACES) data

   

These help in verifying how much tax has already been paid on your behalf.

5. GST Returns (if applicable)

It’s important to reconcile your GSTR-3B and GSTR-1 returns with the sales shown in your income tax return. 

This avoids mismatches during scrutiny.

6. Bank Statements

For verification of:

• Revenue entries

   

• Loan repayments

   

• Interest credits

   

• Investments and other transactions

   

7. Fixed Asset Register

This register includes details of equipment, furniture, or any assets purchased and helps calculate depreciation accurately.

8. Loan and Investment Details

This includes:

• Loans received or repaid during the year

   

• Investments made in other companies or financial products

   

• Share capital issued or increased

   

9. Shareholding Pattern

Details of directors and shareholders are often needed when filling out the general company information in ITR-6.

10. Previous Year’s Return and Assessment Orders (if any)

Useful for reference and in case there are carry-forward losses or refunds from earlier years.

Tip: Organizing these documents ahead of time will make the ITR-6 filing process much easier. It will also help avoid errors, mismatches, or tax notices in the future.

4. What are the corporate tax rates, MAT applicability, and surcharge for MSME companies filing ITR-6?

If your MSME is registered as a Private Limited Company, understanding the corporate tax rates and related rules is very important before filing ITR-6.