Income Tax Calculator
Navigating India’s Tax System: Understanding Slab Rates and Deductions
India’s tax system can seem complex and overwhelming, but with a bit of understanding, you can navigate it effectively to ensure compliance and maximize your savings. One key aspect to grasp is the structure of slab rates for taxation and the various deductions allowed. Let’s delve into the details:
1. Slab Rates for Taxation
India’s income tax system operates on a progressive tax rate, which means that individuals are taxed at increasing rates as their income rises. The current slab rates for individual taxpayers for the financial year 2023-24 are as follows:
- Up to Rs 2.5 lakhs: Nil (No tax)
- Rs 2.5 lakhs to Rs 5 lakhs: 5%
- Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs: 10%
- Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 12.5 lakhs: 20%
- Rs 12.5 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs: 25%
- Above Rs 15 lakhs: 30%
Additionally, a 4% Health and Education Cess is applicable on the total tax payable.
2. Deductions Allowed
To reduce the tax burden on taxpayers, the Indian tax system allows for various deductions under different sections of the Income Tax Act. Some of the most commonly availed deductions include:
- Section 80C: Deduction for investments in specified instruments such as Employee Provident Fund (EPF), Public Provident Fund (PPF), Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS), National Savings Certificate (NSC), and life insurance premiums, subject to a maximum limit of Rs 1.5 lakhs per annum.
- Section 80D: Deduction for payment of health insurance premiums for self, spouse, children, and parents. The maximum deduction allowed is Rs 25,000 for individuals below 60 years of age and Rs 50,000 for senior citizens (above 60 years). An additional deduction of up to Rs 5,000 is allowed for preventive health check-up expenses.
- Section 24(b): Deduction for interest paid on home loan for self-occupied or rented property. The maximum deduction allowed is Rs 2 lakhs per annum for self-occupied property and the actual interest paid for rented property.
- Section 80E: Deduction for repayment of interest on education loan for higher studies. The entire interest amount paid during the financial year is eligible for deduction, with no upper limit.
- Section 80TTA and 80TTB: Deduction for interest earned on savings bank account and deposits for senior citizens, respectively. The maximum deduction allowed under section 80TTA is Rs 10,000, while senior citizens can claim a deduction of up to Rs 50,000 under section 80TTB.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Conclusion
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