August 2026 financial changes: ITR filing deadline, Axis Bank card rules, Kotak DCC fee hike; check key dates

August 2026 brings several important financial changes that could impact taxpayers and bank customers. From the income tax return (ITR) filing deadline for certain taxpayers to revised debit card insurance eligibility and higher Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) charges on select bank cards, these changes will take effect at different points during the month. Here's a look at the key financial deadlines and rule changes in August 2026 that you should be aware of.

The deadline for filing ITR-3 and ITR-4 forms is August 31 for taxpayers having business/profession income whose accounts are not required to be audited (not being a company. Freelancers, self-employed professionals, small firms, and taxpayers choosing presumptive taxation plans under Sections 44AD and 44ADA are also subject to the August 31 deadline.

The eligibility criterion for complimentary insurance benefits available on the Axis Bank PRESTIGE debit card has been revised. To remain eligible for the insurance cover, customers will now be required to carry out at least one eligible debit card transaction within 30 days before the date of the insurance event.

Earlier, customers were required to complete at least one eligible debit card transaction within 90 days before the date of the insurance event to qualify for the insurance cover.

Axis Bank will increase the DCC fee on its debit cards to 3.5% from 1.5%, effective August 28, 2026, according to the bank's revised terms and conditions.

Effective August 1, 2026, the Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fee on Kotak Debit Card transactions will be 3.5% + GST of the transaction amount. Earlier, it was 1% + GST). The DCC fee is applicable on transactions conducted at international merchants, including transactions initiated within India but processed by overseas merchants.