What Are The Legal Ways To Reduce Tax Liability In India?

Tax planning is an essential financial strategy that helps individuals and businesses legally reduce their tax burden. The Indian government provides various deductions, exemptions, and investment incentives under the Income Tax Act, 1961, to encourage savings and economic growth.

Steps to Reduce Tax Liability

1. Utilize Section 80C Deductions

Invest up to ₹1.5 lakh annually in eligible instruments like:

• Public Provident Fund (PPF)
• Employees' Provident Fund (EPF)
• National Savings Certificate (NSC)
• Life Insurance Premium
• Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)

2. Claim House Rent Allowance (HRA)

Salaried individuals living in rented accommodation can claim HRA exemptions under Section 10(13A). The exemption depends on salary, actual rent paid, and city of residence.

3. Benefit From Home Loan Deductions

Under Section 80C: Deduction on principal repayment (up to ₹1.5 lakh).

Under Section 24(b): Deduction on interest payment (up to ₹2 lakh for self-occupied property).

4. Utilize National Pension System (NPS) Benefits

Under Section 80CCD(1B), an additional ₹50,000 deduction is available for NPS contributions.

5. Take Advantage of Medical Insurance and Expenses

Under Section 80D, deduction up to ₹25,000 for self, spouse, and children, and ₹50,000 for senior citizen parents.

Section 80DDB allows deductions for treatment of specified diseases.

6. Capital Gains Tax Planning

Long-term capital gains (LTCG) from equities up to ₹1 lakh per year are tax-free.

Investing capital gains in Section 54 (real estate) or 54EC (bonds) can help avoid taxes.

7. Business and Professional Deductions

Business expenses such as rent, salaries, depreciation, and operational costs are deductible.

Under the Presumptive Taxation Scheme (Section 44AD/44ADA), small businesses and professionals can pay taxes at a fixed percentage of turnover.

Legal Actions and Protections

• Filing Tax Returns On Time: Ensure compliance with tax laws and avoid penalties.
• Tax-saving Investments: Choose government-approved tax-saving schemes.
• Avoid Tax Evasion: Always maintain proper documentation and avoid false claims, as tax evasion is illegal.

Example

A salaried employee earning ₹10 lakh annually can reduce tax liability as follows:

• Invest ₹1.5 lakh in PPF under Section 80C.
• Claim ₹2 lakh interest deduction on a home loan under Section 24(b).
• Contribute ₹50,000 to NPS under Section 80CCD(1B).
• Claim ₹25,000 deduction for health insurance under Section 80D.

By strategically using these deductions, their taxable income reduces significantly, leading to lower tax liability.