14 September 2009
Whether assets taken on finance lease will be covered under clause 24 (a) of tax audit r.w.s. 269 SS , assesse has shown the lease liability as an unsecured load and capitalised the leased assets
26 July 2025
Regarding your query on **Tax Audit Clause 24(a)** and **Section 269SS** in context of **finance lease**:
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### 1. **Finance Lease Liability Treatment:**
* Finance lease creates a **debt-like liability** because the lessee essentially finances the purchase of the asset over time. * However, legally, it is **not a loan** but a contractual obligation to pay lease rentals. * The leased asset is capitalized on the balance sheet, and the lease liability is shown as a liability.
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### 2. **Clause 24(a) of Tax Audit (Form 3CD):**
* Clause 24(a) requires disclosure of **details of loans and advances taken from parties** covered under Section 269SS (prohibition on taking loans or deposits exceeding Rs 20,000 otherwise than by account payee cheque or draft). * The key is whether the finance lease liability **qualifies as a loan** under the meaning of Section 269SS.
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### 3. **Is Finance Lease Liability Covered under Section 269SS?**
* **No, it is generally not considered a loan under Section 269SS.** * Finance lease is a form of credit for asset purchase but does not constitute a loan or deposit under the Income Tax Act. * Hence, **finance lease liability is not subject to Section 269SS restrictions**.
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### 4. **Presentation in Books:**
* If the lease liability is shown under **"secured loans" or "unsecured loans"**, it might create confusion. * Ideally, lease liabilities should be shown under a **separate head like 'Lease Obligations' or 'Finance Lease Liability'** in the balance sheet. * Showing it as a loan may not be accurate from an accounting and tax perspective.
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### **Summary:**
| Aspect | Treatment | | ----------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | | Finance lease liability | Not a loan under Income Tax Act | | Covered under Section 269SS? | No | | Disclosure under Clause 24(a) | Not required for lease liability | | Presentation in accounts | Should be shown separately, **not under loans** |
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If your audit accounts show it as unsecured loan, it is **not technically correct** and may cause issues during scrutiny. Best practice is to **classify separately** and disclose clearly.