What this means
Section 276B of IT Act 1961 (prosecution for failure to pay TDS/TCS to the Central Government within prescribed time: rigorous imprisonment 3 months to 7 years plus fine) maps to Section 468 of IT Act 2025. The 3 to 7 year imprisonment for TDS non-payment is unchanged. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
Change type — Section renumbered
The section number changed when the IT Act 1961 was reorganised into the IT Act 2025. The substance, rates, thresholds, and conditions are preserved. Any reference to the old section number in contracts, certificates, or returns before 1 April 2026 remains valid under the transitional provisions in §536.
Effective date
This change takes effect from 1 April 2026 (Tax Year 2026-27 onwards). For income earned before 1 April 2026, the old Section 276B continues to apply under the transitional provisions of Section 536 of the IT Act 2025. Returns for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27) are filed under the IT Act 1961 — old section numbers apply.
Frequently asked questions
Where did Section 276B go in the Income Tax Act 2025?▾
Section 276B of the IT Act 1961 maps to 468 in the IT Act 2025, effective 1 April 2026. Section 276B of IT Act 1961 (prosecution for failure to pay TDS/TCS to the Central Government within prescribed time: rigorous imprisonment 3 months to 7 years plus fine) maps to Section 468 of IT Act 2025. The 3 to 7 year imprisonment for TDS non-payment is unchanged. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
Does Section 276B still apply for FY 2025-26 (AY 2026-27)?▾
Yes. For income earned in FY 2025-26 (April 2025 to March 2026), the IT Act 1961 continues to apply — including Section 276B. The IT Act 2025 (and its new section numbering) applies from Tax Year 2026-27 (income earned on or after 1 April 2026). Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.
What is the new section number for 276B in the IT Act 2025?▾
The new corresponding provision is 468 under the Income Tax Act 2025. Change type: Section renumbered. The section number changed when the IT Act 1961 was reorganised into the IT Act 2025. The substance, rates, thresholds, and conditions are preserved. Any reference to the old section number in contracts, certificates, or returns before 1 April 2026 remains valid under the transitional provisions in §536. Verify on the income-tax portal before filing.