income tax slab 2024 25
Understanding the income tax slab for the financial year 2024-25 is essential for every salaried individual, self-employed professional, and taxpayer in general. The income tax system in India is based on slabs, which are predetermined income ranges taxed at different rates. These slabs are reviewed regularly by the government, taking into account inflation, public feedback, and broader economic goals. For the assessment year 2025-26, individuals can choose between the old tax regime and the new tax regime, depending on which is more beneficial to them. The new regime offers lower tax rates but fewer deductions, while the old regime retains various exemptions and deductions. This topic explores the income tax slab 2024-25 in detail and helps you understand how to plan your finances accordingly.
Income Tax Slab 2024-25: An Overview
The income tax structure in India is progressive, which means higher income is taxed at higher rates. For the financial year 2024-25, both the old and new tax regimes are available to individual taxpayers. The choice depends on their income composition, investments, and eligible deductions.
Key Points:
- Taxpayers can choose between the old and new tax regimes
- The new regime has simplified tax rates with no or limited exemptions
- The old regime continues to offer various deductions under sections like 80C, 80D, etc.
- The default tax regime is the new one unless the taxpayer opts out
New Tax Regime: Income Tax Slabs for FY 2024-25
Under the new tax regime, the government has introduced revised tax slabs with lower rates but has removed most exemptions and deductions. The new regime is now the default option and is more beneficial for those with fewer investments or who prefer a simpler tax calculation.
New Tax Slab Rates:
- Income up to â¹3,00,000 Nil
- â¹3,00,001 to â¹6,00,000 5%
- â¹6,00,001 to â¹9,00,000 10%
- â¹9,00,001 to â¹12,00,000 15%
- â¹12,00,001 to â¹15,00,000 20%
- Above â¹15,00,000 30%
This new structure applies to individuals below 60 years, senior citizens, and very senior citizens alike, as age-based slabs are not applicable in the new regime. A standard deduction of â¹50,000 is allowed, and rebate under Section 87A is available for taxable income up to â¹7,00,000.
Old Tax Regime: Income Tax Slabs for FY 2024-25
For those who opt for the old regime, several exemptions and deductions such as House Rent Allowance (HRA), Leave Travel Allowance (LTA), and Section 80C investments are available. This regime is suitable for individuals who have significant tax-saving investments or who prefer to maximize their deductions.
Old Regime Slab Rates:
For Individuals Below 60 Years:
- Income up to â¹2,50,000 Nil
- â¹2,50,001 to â¹5,00,000 5%
- â¹5,00,001 to â¹10,00,000 20%
- Above â¹10,00,000 30%
For Senior Citizens (6080 Years):
- Income up to â¹3,00,000 Nil
- â¹3,00,001 to â¹5,00,000 5%
- â¹5,00,001 to â¹10,00,000 20%
- Above â¹10,00,000 30%
For Very Senior Citizens (Above 80 Years):
- Income up to â¹5,00,000 Nil
- â¹5,00,001 to â¹10,00,000 20%
- Above â¹10,00,000 30%
Common Deductions Allowed Under Old Regime:
- Section 80C (up to â¹1,50,000 for LIC, PPF, ELSS, etc.)
- Section 80D (for medical insurance premiums)
- Section 24(b) (interest on home loan up to â¹2,00,000)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Standard deduction of â¹50,000 for salaried individuals
Rebate Under Section 87A
Both regimes offer a tax rebate under Section 87A for individuals with lower income. If the total taxable income is less than â¹7,00,000 in the new regime or â¹5,00,000 in the old regime, the entire tax liability is waived off up to â¹25,000 and â¹12,500 respectively.
Eligibility for Rebate:
- Resident individuals
- Taxable income up to â¹7,00,000 (new regime)
- Taxable income up to â¹5,00,000 (old regime)
This provision ensures zero tax liability for low-income individuals and encourages honest tax filing.
Surcharge and Cess
In both regimes, a health and education cess of 4% is applicable on the total tax payable. Additionally, a surcharge is levied on high-income individuals.
Surcharge Rates:
- 10% of income tax if total income exceeds â¹50 lakh
- 15% if income exceeds â¹1 crore
- 25% if income exceeds â¹2 crore (only under old regime)
- 37% surcharge capped at 25% under new regime as per Budget 2023
Choosing Between Old and New Tax Regime
Deciding which regime to choose depends on your financial habits and income profile. The new regime is simpler but offers fewer deductions. It suits taxpayers with fewer investments or those who prefer a no-calculation approach. The old regime benefits those who claim multiple deductions and exemptions.
Factors to Consider:
- Investment in tax-saving instruments
- Home loan interest payments
- Health insurance premiums
- Eligibility for HRA and LTA
- Retirement planning contributions
Use an online tax calculator to compare your liability under both regimes before filing your return. The option can be changed every year by salaried individuals, while others need to follow specific rules if they switch.
Filing Income Tax Return for AY 2025-26
Once you have calculated your total income and tax liability based on the chosen regime, the next step is filing your Income Tax Return (ITR). Ensure you file before the due date to avoid penalties and interest.
Important Dates:
- Start of the financial year: April 1, 2024
- End of the financial year: March 31, 2025
- ITR filing deadline for individuals: July 31, 2025 (unless extended)
The income tax slab for 2024-25 offers flexibility to taxpayers through the dual regime system. While the new regime is streamlined and easier to navigate, the old regime continues to provide significant savings for those who plan their investments smartly. As tax rules continue to evolve, staying informed and comparing options annually is key to optimizing your financial outcomes.
Whether you’re salaried, self-employed, or a pensioner, understanding the income tax slab for FY 2024-25 helps you take control of your money, reduce tax outgo, and ensure compliance. Make informed decisions and file your returns confidently to take full advantage of the provisions available to you.