Reporting us social security income in india tax return

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Peter Boxer (Querist)

13 June 2013 I am asking this question on behalf of a relative who is a US citizen (of Indian origin) living in India permanently on OCI status. He is retired and gets US Social Security Income.

As we understand it, per the US-India DTAA treaty US Social Security Income is not taxed in India. However, the question is, does it still need to be reported on the India Tax Return? If so, where does it get reported and how does it get excluded from taxable income?

Thanks for the assistance on this.

Peter Boxer

Peter Boxer (Querist)

21 June 2013 Any advice from any expert?

Aashok Kumar Sharma online

Aashok Kumar Sharma

(Expert)

21 July 2025 Here’s a clear, professional explanation you can share regarding reporting US Social Security Income on Indian tax returns for an OCI holder:

Subject: Reporting of US Social Security Income on Indian Income Tax Return

Dear [Name],

Regarding your query on reporting US Social Security Income for a US citizen of Indian origin living in India on OCI status:

Taxability under India-US DTAA:
The India-US Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) specifically states that US Social Security benefits are taxable only in the United States and not taxable in India.

Therefore, your relative’s US Social Security Income is exempt from tax in India.

Reporting Requirements in India:
Despite being exempt from tax, it is advisable to disclose the US Social Security Income in the Indian Income Tax Return (ITR) for full transparency.

Typically, such income is reported under Schedule OS (Income from Other Sources) or Schedule FSI (Foreign Source Income) depending on the ITR form used.

When reporting, claim exemption under the relevant article of the DTAA (Article 17 generally covers Social Security pensions).

Attach a declaration or note stating that the income is exempt under the India-US DTAA.

How to Report and Exclude from Taxable Income:
Declare the gross amount of Social Security Income under foreign income sections in the ITR.

Claim exemption under the relevant DTAA article (provide details in the “Exempt Income” section).

Keep a copy of the DTAA provisions and your US Social Security statements as proof for future reference.

Additional Notes:
Your relative should also ensure compliance with Foreign Income and Assets disclosure in the ITR as required.

If your relative has other income taxable in India, the Social Security Income exemption helps avoid double taxation.

If you want, I can help prepare a sample declaration or assist with the exact ITR form and schedule where this should be reported.

Please let me know.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

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