Significant TDS & TCS reforms are introduced in the Union Budget 2025 with the goals of easing tax compliance, lowering financial burdens, and fostering economic expansion. Lower TDS rates, lower TCS on foreign transactions, and more exemptions for small taxpayers are some of the main attractions.

The Income Tax Department (ITD) has started sending SMS alerts to taxpayers who have claimed Section 80GGC deductions for donations made to political parties and electoral trusts. The notice applies to Assessment Years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25 and urges taxpayers to verify their claims on the Compliance Portal. If the claim is incorrect, taxpayers must file an Updated Return (ITR-U) under Section 139(8A) before 31st March 2025 to avoid penalties under Section 270A (up to 200% fine) and interest under Section 234F (₹5,000 late fee). This blog explains Section 80GGC deductions, compliance requirements, and the steps to correct errors in tax filings.

The Income Tax Department's (ITD) capricious limitations on Section 87A refund applications have been invalidated by the Bombay High Court. The court decided that it was unreasonable for qualified taxpayers to be denied refunds due to technical constraints. Many people who were previously refused tax relief because of technical limitations now benefit from this ruling. To guarantee that rebate claims are handled efficiently, ITD must now modernize its systems. In order to get any refunds to which they are entitled, taxpayers should verify their status.

Important clarification about the GST applicability of fines levied by banks and NBFCs for loan breaches is provided by Circular 245. In the past, it was unclear if punitive costs like late payment fines were subject to GST. The circular affirms that these fines are free from GST as they are a result of contract violations rather than a compensation for services. This clarification ensures equitable and transparent taxes in financial transactions by lowering the tax burden on borrowers and financial institutions.

Under Section 51 of the GST Act, specified entities must deduct TDS at 2% for payments exceeding ₹2.5 lakh. Exemptions include unregistered suppliers, exempt goods, and small contracts. Deductors must adhere to filing deadlines and compliance norms, while suppliers can claim TDS as ITC, fostering transparency and tax compliance.

To maintain tax compliance, encourage transparency, and identify tax evasion, the GST department uses Form 26AS, AIS, and ITR data in an integrated approach. To stay out of trouble with the law, taxpayers must make sure that their reports are correct and that they are regularly reconciled. Read this blog to understand the process, its effects, and how to maintain compliance.

The new TDS rate chart for AY 2025–2026, which details the relevant rates for residents and non-residents, has been made public by the CBDT. Important clauses, noteworthy modifications, compliance dates, and advice on implementing the most recent TDS rates into your financial procedures are all highlighted in this article. To guarantee timely tax filing and prevent fines, be informed.

Late costs for GSTR-9C files that were postponed from FY 2017–18 to FY 2022–23 have been forgiven by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). The 55th meeting of the GST Council accepted this plan, which permits taxpayers to file outstanding taxes by March 31, 2025, without incurring penalties. Businesses gain from the waiver because it promotes compliance, lessens financial strains, and streamlines the GST system. Discover its significance, qualifying requirements, and detailed application procedure in this extensive blog.

With effect from February 2025, the GSTN has implemented Phase-3 modifications for HSN code reporting in GSTR-1 and GSTR-1A. These modifications are intended to improve compliance, guarantee standardization, and increase data accuracy. Businesses may face initial difficulties, but there are substantial long-term advantages. To guarantee a seamless transfer, get ready today.

The Government of India has extended the deadline for the Vivad se Vishwas Scheme 2024 till January 31, 2025, giving taxpayers extra time to resolve their tax problems peacefully. This method, designed to reduce litigation and improve compliance, allows taxpayers to resolve concerns without incurring fines or interest. The expansion is intended to increase participation and contribute to India's objective of streamlining its tax system.

The FORM CSR-2 filing date has been extended by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to March 31, 2025. This extension ensures openness and adherence to the Companies Act of 2013 by giving businesses more time to meet CSR reporting requirements. Read our in-depth blog to find out more about FORM CSR-2, its significance, and the effects of this expansion.

Middle-class taxpayers may benefit greatly from the plan to streamline the TDS structure and raise the income tax exemption level to Rs 5.7 lakh. These adjustments seek to promote justice and economic growth by bringing taxing rules into line with inflation trends and removing obstacles to TDS compliance. The present situation, difficulties, and possible effects of these reforms are examined in this blog.