In order to lessen the tax burden on different types of payments, the TDS rates under Sections 194-IB, 194-DA, 194-G, 194-H, 194-M, and 194-O have recently changed. The TDS rate for insurance commissions, life insurance payouts, lottery commissions, brokerage fees, and rent payments will be lowered from 5% to 2% as of October 1, 2024, and April 1, 2025. A 2% tax under Section 194M will also be applied to payments made by non-auditable businesses to contractors and professionals. In addition, Section 194-O will apply a reduced TDS rate of 0.75% to e-commerce transactions. These adjustments aim to increase tax compliance across a range of industries and enhance liquidity for professionals, small enterprises, and individuals.

This blog provides a detailed and descriptive overview of Section 194M of the Income Tax Act, 1961. It explains the key aspects of this section, including the types of payments covered, the threshold limit for TDS applicability, the TDS rates, and the compliance requirements for both payers and payees.