Understanding Income Tax in India
Income tax is a tax levied by the government on your income. The tax is calculated based on tax slabs, which define different tax rates for different income ranges.
Old vs New Tax Regime
Indian taxpayers can choose between two tax regimes:
Old Tax Regime
- Allows various deductions and exemptions (80C, 80D, HRA, LTA, etc.)
- Three tax slabs: 5%, 20%, 30%
- Best for those who can maximize deductions
- Requires documentation for claiming deductions
New Tax Regime
- Lower tax rates but minimal deductions
- More tax slabs: 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 30%
- Only standard deduction of ₹50,000 allowed
- Simpler with less paperwork
- Best for those with limited deductions
Common Deductions (Old Regime)
- Section 80C: Up to ₹1,50,000 - PPF, EPF, ELSS, Life Insurance, Home Loan Principal
- Section 80D: Up to ₹25,000 - Health Insurance Premium (₹50,000 for senior citizens)
- Section 80CCD(1B): Additional ₹50,000 - NPS contributions
- Section 24: Up to ₹2,00,000 - Home Loan Interest
- HRA: Exemption on House Rent Allowance
- LTA: Leave Travel Allowance exemption
- Standard Deduction: ₹50,000 for salaried individuals
Tax Saving Tips
- Maximize 80C: Invest in ELSS, PPF, EPF to claim ₹1.5 lakh deduction
- Health Insurance: Buy health insurance for yourself and parents for 80D benefit
- NPS: Additional ₹50,000 deduction under 80CCD(1B)
- Home Loan: Claim both principal (80C) and interest (24) deductions
- Choose Right Regime: Calculate tax under both regimes and choose the beneficial one
- Plan Early: Start tax planning at the beginning of financial year
Who Should Choose Old Regime?
- Those with home loans (interest deduction)
- Those investing heavily in 80C instruments
- Those claiming HRA exemption
- Higher deductions available (typically total deductions > ₹2.5 lakhs)
Who Should Choose New Regime?
- Those with minimal investments and deductions
- Those who prefer simplicity over documentation
- Lower income individuals (below ₹7.5 lakhs)
- Those not claiming HRA or home loan benefits
Important Notes
- Health and Education Cess: 4% on income tax
- Rebate under Section 87A: Up to ₹12,500 if income is below ₹5 lakhs (new regime: ₹7 lakhs)
- TDS: Tax Deducted at Source on salary
- You can switch between regimes every year (except for business income)
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on standard tax slabs. Actual tax liability may vary based on specific circumstances. Tax laws change periodically. Please consult a tax professional or refer to official government sources for accurate tax planning.