26 July 2025
Sure! Here’s a clear explanation of **TDS (Tax Deducted at Source)**:
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### What is TDS?
**TDS (Tax Deducted at Source)** is a system introduced by the Income Tax Department to collect tax at the source of income itself. Instead of paying the entire tax at the end of the year, a certain percentage is deducted when the income is generated or payment is made.
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### How does TDS work?
* When a person or company (called the **payer**) pays certain types of income (like salary, interest, rent, professional fees) to another person (called the **payee**), the payer deducts tax before making the payment. * This deducted tax is then deposited with the government on behalf of the payee. * The payee can claim credit for this tax when filing their income tax return.
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### Why is TDS important?
* It helps the government collect tax regularly and prevent tax evasion. * Ensures taxpayers pay their due taxes in a timely manner. * Payees get a credit for tax already paid when they file their return.
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### Common TDS rates (examples):
| Nature of Payment | TDS Rate (approximate) | | ------------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------- | | Salary | As per income tax slab (via employer) | | Interest on securities | 10% | | Rent | 10% or 2% depending on type | | Professional fees | 10% | | Contract payments | 1% to 2% | | Payment to non-residents | 30% or as per DTAA (Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement) |
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### Important points:
* If the payee’s total income is below the taxable limit, they can submit a **Form 15G/15H** to avoid TDS. * If TDS is deducted but the actual tax liability is less, the payee can claim a refund by filing an income tax return. * TDS deducted is reflected in Form 26AS (tax credit statement).
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If you want, I can explain specific TDS provisions related to your job or any other payment! Would you like that?