Friday, 29 March 2024

Salaried Person's Tax Deductions: A Complete Guide

 

Introduction

It's important for taxpayers to have a clear understanding of the available allowances and deductions, as they can greatly reduce tax liabilities. Throughout this article, we aim to provide you with all the necessary details on income tax allowances and deductions, empowering you to make informed decisions when filing your tax returns

Understanding Income Tax Allowances

Income tax allowances are specific deductions that can reduce your taxable income. The following are some of the most commonly available income tax allowances in India.

1.  Standard Deduction

Standard deduction is a flat deduction of INR 50,000 (for FY 2022-23) from the total income of salaried individuals. This deduction was introduced in Budget 2018 and is available to all salaried individuals irrespective of their actual expenses.

2.  House Rent Allowance (HRA)

HRA is an allowance received by employees from their employer to pay for their rented accommodation. HRA is partially or fully exempt from tax, subject to certain conditions.

3.  Leave Travel Allowance (LTA)

LTA is an allowance received by employees to meet their travel expenses while on leave from work. LTA can be claimed twice in a block of four years, and the exemption is limited to the actual expenses incurred on travel.

4.  Children Education Allowance

Children Education Allowance is an allowance received by employees for the education of their children. The exemption limit for this allowance is INR 100 per month per child, up to a maximum of two children.

5.  Medical Reimbursement

Medical reimbursement is an allowance received by employees to meet their medical expenses. The exemption limit for this allowance is INR 15,000 per annum.

Understanding Income Tax Deductions

Income tax deductions are expenses or investments that can be claimed as deductions from your total income. The following are some of the most commonly available income tax deductions in India.

1.  Section 80C

Section 80C is one of the most commonly used tax-saving options for individuals. Under this section, you can claim a deduction of up to INR 1.5 lakh by investing in various instruments such as Public Provident Fund (PPF), Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), National Pension Scheme (NPS), etc.

2.  Section 80D

Section 80D allows you to claim a deduction for the premium paid towards health insurance policies for yourself, spouse, and dependent children. The deduction limit is INR 25,000 for individuals below 60 years and INR 50,000 for senior citizens.

3.  Section 80E

Section 80E allows you to claim a deduction for the interest paid on an education loan for higher studies. There is no upper limit on the amount that can be claimed as a deduction, and the deduction is available for a maximum of eight years.

4.  Section 80TTA

Section 80TTA allows you to claim a deduction of up to INR 10,000 on the interest earned on savings bank accounts. This deduction is available to individuals and HUFs.

5.  Section 80G

Section 80G allows you to claim a deduction for donations made to charitable institutions. The deduction limit varies from 50% to 100% of the donation amount, depending on the type of institution.

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