Learn all about Tax
How ESOPs and RSUs are taxed in India: Latest capital gains tax rates and startup ESOP tax rules
May 12, 2026 | 20 mins read
ESOPs (Employee Stock Option Plans) and RSUs (Restricted Stock Units) are popular components of employee compensation, especially in startups, listed companies, and MNCs. However, their taxation often confuses employees because tax is triggered at two different stages.
What is UTGST and Why Is It Charged?
May 12, 2026 | 5 mins read
Short for Union Territory Goods and Services Tax, UTGST refers to the GST levied on intra-union territory supplies of goods and services. It functions in a similar manner to State GST (SGST), with one key difference – SGST is applicable only in states and union territories with legislatures, while UTGST applies to union territories without legislatures. UTGST was introduced to ensure the uniform applicability of GST across regions in India.
Surcharge on Tax: Is It a Separate Tax or an Extra Tax?
May 12, 2026 | 6 mins read
When you go out to eat at a restaurant, your bill often shows GST split into CGST and SGST. Sometimes, you may also notice a service charge. While GST is mandatory, the service charge is optional, though many people are unaware of this distinction. Similarly, when it comes to income tax, your total tax outgo is not just limited to basic income tax. It may also include other levies such as a surcharge.
Inheritance tax in India, history, abolition and how its linked to capital gains?
May 12, 2026 | 16 mins read
Inheritance tax is a levy on wealth transferred after death either on the estate or on the individual heirs who receive assets. These could be property, money, gold, shares and mutual funds. Many countries use such taxes to curb concentration of wealth and raise revenue, but India currently does not levy any tax merely on receiving an inheritance. Historically, India followed an estate duty system, where tax was charged on the total value of an estate beyond a threshold, e.g. higher-value estates were charged with higher tax rates. This system decided how inherited wealth was taxed for many years. But it was later repealed, and today India doesn’t tax assets and money inherited by individuals itself.
How to Avoid TDS on Dividend Income in FY 2025-26
May 12, 2026 | 4 mins read
Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) refers to the tax that is deducted by the payer at the time an income is credited or paid to the recipient. Certain types of income, such as interest and dividends, are subject to TDS under the Income Tax Act. Over the years, the taxation of dividend income has undergone significant changes, including the application of TDS. This blog explains the current rules for TDS deduction on dividend income and how eligible taxpayers can legally avoid TDS.
Why Form 15G and Form 15H Are Important for Taxpayers
May 12, 2026 | 7 mins read
Forms are an integral part of the financial world, including taxation. While the Income Tax Act, 2025 is expected to streamline and reduce the number of tax-related forms, two declarations continue to remain important for investors – Form 15G and Form 15H.
How Form 26AS Helps You Claim Tax Credits in ITR
May 12, 2026 | 4 mins read
Keeping all your tax-related documents handy while filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) makes the process smoother and reduces the risks of errors or notices. One such crucial document is Form 26AS, often referred to as the Form 26AS income tax statement. Issued by the Income Tax (IT) Department of India, it serves as a record of annual tax credits for taxpayers. This article explains what Form 26AS is, what information it contains, why it is important for claiming tax credits, and how to download it.
Understanding the taxation rules of Market-Linked Debentures (MLDs)
May 11, 2026 | 3 mins read
In contrast to traditional fixed-income securities, market-linked investments offer the potential for higher returns. However, higher return potential may also mean higher taxes. Understanding the tax implications of the investment you choose is essential for optimising post-tax returns.
How to claim Section 80GGC or Section 80GGB deduction in the ITR?
May 11, 2026 | 4 mins read
The Income Tax Act, 1961, offers deductions not only for investments or expenses, but also for money spent on socially and democratically important causes such as donations. While Section 80G allows deductions for donations to specified charitable institutions and funds, Sections 80GGB and 80GGC specifically deal with donations made to political parties and approved electoral trusts. This article explains these sections and how to claim the deduction in your Income Tax Return (ITR).
How Capital Gains Tax Differs from Income Tax
March 13, 2026 | 7 mins read
India's tax system includes different kinds of levies, two of which are income tax and capital gains tax. Income tax is levied on incomes like salaries, business profits, and rent, according to a slab system that is progressive. In contrast, capital gains tax is levied on gains made on the sale of capital assets like property, stocks, or mutual funds. These two taxes not only vary in the source of their income but also in calculation and rates applicable to them.
Rent relief ahead? how 50% HRA deduction could change tax for you
March 11, 2026 | 5 mins read
The government has released draft Income tax Rules 2026 proposing a major change in how House Rent Allowance (HRA) exemption is calculated for salaried taxpayers in select cities. The rules add Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Ahmedabad into the list of metro cities for HRA purposes. This will make those earning HRA in these cities eligible for the higher 50% exemption limit under the old tax regime.
Freelancer’s Guide to Filing Income Tax Returns in India
March 11, 2026 | 7 mins read
Freelancing in India has witnessed significant growth in recent years. With increased access to digital platforms and remote opportunities, many professionals have started freelancing as a full-time or part-time source of income.
What is Advance Tax?, Meaning, eligibility, process, due dates, and steps to calculate & more
March 2, 2026 | 8 mins read
Out of the various types of income tax payments in India, the three major ones are Tax Deducted at Source (TDS), advance tax, and self-assessment tax. TDS refers to the tax withheld or deducted by the payer at the time of making a payment. Advance tax involves paying income tax in advance in installments, if applicable. After adjusting TDS and advance tax, any remaining tax payable is paid as self-assessment tax. This article focuses on advance tax payments in India.
Tax Filing Rules: Should You File Returns If Your Income Is Under the Exemption Limit?
January 16, 2026 | 6 mins read
Filing income tax returns (ITR) is generally associated with those who earn above the taxable income limit set by the government. However, many individuals who fall below the exemption threshold may still benefit from filing a tax return. While it may not be mandatory in many cases, filing a tax return voluntarily can offer financial and legal advantages.
Types of ITR forms available to Indian taxpayers
January 16, 2026 | 4 mins read
From visa applications to bank loans and beyond, the Income Tax Return (ITR) plays a vital role in various aspects of financial life. While its uses may be diverse, its primary significance lies in taxation. This article explores the meaning of ITR, the types of ITR forms available and the steps to file an ITR online.