Tax Smarter in FY 2024-25: Standard Deduction Updates for Salaried & Pensioners

Grasping the concept of standard deduction is essential for every salaried person in India. Following the recent updates in the Union Budget 2024, the framework for standard deduction has changed, particularly within the new tax framework. This comprehensive guide clarifies what standard deduction entails, the updated limits for both regimes, eligibility criteria, advantages, and practical illustrations.

What does Standard Deduction mean?

Standard deduction refers to a set amount that salaried individuals and pensioners can deduct from their total salary or pension income to lower their taxable income. It operates as a flat deduction—there's no need for investments, expenses, or any documentation to claim it. The main goal is to streamline tax filing and offer consistent relief to all qualified taxpayers.

Standard Deduction Limits for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)

• Under the old tax regime, salaried individuals are permitted to claim ₹50,000, while the new regime allows for a ₹75,000 claim.
• Pensioners can utilize deductions of ₹15,000 in the old regime and ₹25,000 in the new regime.

Key Characteristics of Standard Deduction

• Fixed Deduction: The amount remains constant, no matter the actual salary or expenses incurred.
• No Requirement for Documentation: There’s no necessity to present receipts or evidence; it’s automatically applied.
• Automatic Eligibility: All salaried employees and qualifying pensioners can take advantage of it.
• Decreases Taxable Income: It effectively reduces the income level on which taxes are calculated.

Standard Deduction under the Old Tax Regime

• Amount: ₹50,000
• Additional Deductions: You can still make deductions under Sections 80C, 80D, 80G, HRA, LTA, among others.
• Example:
  • Gross Income: ₹10,00,000
  • Standard Deduction: ₹50,000
  • Taxable Income: ₹9,50,000

Standard Deduction under the New Tax Regime

• Amount: ₹75,000 (an increase from ₹50,000 as announced in Budget 2024)
• Additional Deductions: Most other exemptions and deductions are disallowed, except for a few (like employer’s NPS contributions, interest on home loans for rented properties, and family pension deductions).
• Example:
  • Gross Income: ₹13,00,000
  • Standard Deduction: ₹75,000
  • Taxable Income: ₹12,25,000

Advantages of Standard Deduction

• Simplifies Tax Returns: Eliminates the need to monitor or validate expenses.
• Universal Benefit: Accessible to everyone, regardless of their actual expenses.
• Predictable Financial Planning: The deduction amount remains constant yearly, facilitating easier budgeting.
• Lowers Tax Liability: Particularly advantageous for individuals in higher income tax brackets.

How to Avail Standard Deduction

• The deduction is automatically included in Form 16 provided by your employer.
• There is no requirement for a separate claim or documentation.
• Make sure your salary or pension earnings are accurately reported when you file your Income Tax Return (ITR).

Comparison of Standard Deduction in Old and New Tax Regimes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to claim the standard deduction under both tax regimes?
   No, you can only claim it under the regime you select for the year. The amount of deduction varies depending on the regime.
2. Am I required to provide any documentation?
   No, the standard deduction does not necessitate any proof or paperwork.
3. Can pensioners take advantage of the standard deduction?
   Yes, pensioners are eligible to claim a standard deduction of ₹15,000 (under the old regime) or ₹25,000 (under the new regime).

Conclusion

The standard deduction serves as an important tax relief for both salaried individuals and pensioners. With the increase to ₹75,000 in the new tax regime starting from FY 2024-25, it offers even greater benefits. Nonetheless, the decision to choose between the old and new regimes should be based on your total deductions and tax planning requirements. Always evaluate your total tax liability under both regimes prior to submitting your tax return.

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