Calculating income tax in India may seem difficult, especially for salaried employees. But, understanding this process is crucial for managing personal finances effectively and staying in line with tax regulations.
Times Now breaks down the steps involved in calculating income tax on salary, simplifying the complexities.
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Step By Step Guide To Calculate Income Tax
Step 1: Determine Gross Salary
Begin by figuring out your gross salary. This includes your basic salary, allowances, bonuses and any other components that are taxable.
Step 2: Identify Exemptions
Certain parts of your salary may be exempt from income tax. These exemptions could include house rent allowance (HRA), leave travel allowance (LTA) and standard deductions. Subtract these exemptions from your gross salary to find your taxable salary.
Step 3: Calculate Deductions
Explore deductions available under different sections of the Income Tax Act, like Section 80C (for investments in Provident Fund, PPF, or life insurance), Section 80D (for health insurance premiums) and Section 24b (for home loan interest). Subtract these deductions from your taxable salary to determine your net taxable income.
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Step 4: Determine Taxable Income
After considering exemptions and deductions, you’ll arrive at your taxable income.
Step 5: Apply Income Slabs and Tax Rates
India follows a progressive tax system with different income slabs and corresponding tax rates. Calculate the tax for each slab based on your taxable income.
Step 6: Calculate Tax Liability
Calculate the tax liability for each slab and add them up to get your total income tax liability.
Step 7: Consider Rebates and Surcharge
Apply any applicable rebates or surcharges based on your circumstances. For instance, there might be a rebate under Section 87A for individuals with a taxable income up to Rs. 7 lakh.
Step 8: Calculate Health and Education Cess
Add the Health and Education Cess (currently 4 per cent) to your total tax liability.
Step 9: Final Tax Liability
Considering all factors, you’ll arrive at your final income tax liability for the financial year.
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Step 10: TDS and Advance Tax
If you’re a salaried individual, your employer deducts Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) from your salary each month. This TDS is adjusted against your final tax liability. If your tax liability is over Rs. 10,000 for the financial year, you may need to pay Advance Tax in instalments.
Step 11: File Income Tax Return
To stay compliant, file your Income Tax Return (ITR) with the Income Tax Department. This involves reporting your income, deductions, and tax payments.
Income tax can be calculated on the official income tax website calculator in a few simple steps by providing the necessary details.
(https://incometaxindia.gov.in/pages/tools/income-tax-calculator.aspx)
By following these steps, you can navigate the process of calculating income tax on your salary and always consult with a financial advisor to tailor these approaches to your specific financial situation.
