26 July 2024
### Calculation of Gratuity for Income Tax Return
**Gratuity Received by Employees** is an important consideration for tax calculation. The provisions for computing income tax on salary, including gratuity, are governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961. Here is a comprehensive guide on how gratuity is treated:
#### **1. Gratuity Tax Exemption**
Gratuity received by employees is partially or fully exempt from tax, depending on the type of employer and the amount received.
**a. Government Employees:** - Gratuity received by central or state government employees is fully exempt from tax under **Section 10(10)(i)** of the Income Tax Act, regardless of the amount received.
**b. Employees Covered Under Payment of Gratuity Act:** - **Exemption Limit:** Up to ₹20 lakh (from FY 2020-21 onwards) is exempt under **Section 10(10)(ii)**. For earlier years, the limit was ₹10 lakh. Any amount exceeding this limit is taxable.
**c. Employees Not Covered Under Payment of Gratuity Act:** - For non-Government employees not covered under the Payment of Gratuity Act, the tax exemption is subject to limits specified by the Act. The amount exempted is the least of: - The actual gratuity received - The amount specified under the Payment of Gratuity Act (up to ₹20 lakh) - 15 days' salary for each year of service based on the last drawn salary
#### **2. Tax Treatment of Gratuity**
**a. Exemption Calculation:**
For **non-Government employees**, the tax exemption is calculated as follows: 1. **Determine the Exempt Amount:** - **Exempt Portion = Least of:** - Actual Gratuity Received - ₹20 lakh (current limit) or the specified limit for the relevant financial year - 15 days' salary for each year of service
**b. For Government Employees:** - The entire amount received is exempt from tax.
**c. Reporting in Income Tax Return:** - **Exempt Portion:** Report under “Exempt Income” in the ITR form. - **Taxable Portion (if any):** Include under “Income from Salary” and calculate tax accordingly.
### **3. Current Provisions for Computing Income Tax on Salary**
As of the latest provisions:
1. **Salary Definition:** - Includes basic pay, allowances, perquisites, and bonuses.
2. **Allowances and Perquisites:** - Some allowances (like house rent allowance) and perquisites (like rent-free accommodation) are partially exempt or subject to specific rules.
3. **Deductions:** - Employees can claim deductions under Section 80C for investments like EPF, PPF, etc. - Other deductions include Section 24(b) for home loan interest and Section 10(14) for certain allowances.
4. **Tax Slabs for FY 2024-25:** - **For Individuals below 60 years:** Income up to ₹2.5 lakh is exempt; 5% tax for income between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹5 lakh; 10% tax for income between ₹5 lakh and ₹10 lakh; 20% tax for income above ₹10 lakh. - **For Senior Citizens (60 years and above):** Income up to ₹3 lakh is exempt; similar slabs apply as for individuals.
5. **Advance Tax and TDS:** - Tax on salary is generally deducted at source by the employer. Advance tax is applicable if the total tax liability exceeds ₹10,000.
### **4. Practical Steps for Filing IT Returns:**
1. **Gather Documents:** - Form 16, salary slips, proof of deductions, and details of gratuity received.
2. **Calculate Taxable Income:** - Sum up all sources of income, including salary, and deduct exemptions and deductions.
3. **File ITR:** - Use the appropriate ITR form (e.g., ITR-1 or ITR-2) to file your tax return, ensuring all income and exemptions are correctly reported.
4. **Review:** - Verify the return before submission to ensure accuracy.
### **References:**
1. **Income Tax Act, 1961** - Sections 10(10)(i) and 10(10)(ii) for gratuity exemptions. 2. **Finance Acts** - For changes in exemption limits. 3. **Income Tax Department Website** - For the latest forms and updates.
By following these guidelines, you can accurately determine the tax treatment of gratuity and ensure compliance with the Income Tax Act.