Key Points:
- Standard deduction increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 75,000 in the new tax regime.
- New tax slabs introduced, providing relief to taxpayers.
- Significant changes in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) and capital gains taxation.
What’s New in the Income Tax Regime?
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the maiden budget for Modi 3.0, unveiling new income tax slabs aimed at providing substantial relief to middle-class taxpayers. The new tax regime introduces changes that could lead to significant savings and more disposable income for millions of taxpayers.
Standard Deduction Increase
One of the notable changes is the increase in the standard deduction under the new tax regime, from Rs 30,000 to Rs 75,000. This increase is expected to result in savings of up to Rs 17,500 for eligible taxpayers, providing more disposable income and encouraging consumer spending.
New Tax Slabs
Under the new tax regime:
- Income up to Rs 3 lakh will be exempt from tax.
- Income between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 7 lakh will be taxed at 5%.
- Income from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh will be taxed at 10%.
- Income between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 12 lakh will attract a 15% tax rate.
- Income from Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh will be taxed at 20%.
Comparison with Old Tax Regime
The old tax regime had different slabs:
- Income up to Rs 5 lakh was tax-free.
- Income from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7.5 lakh was taxed at 10%.
- Income from Rs 7.5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh was taxed at 15%.
- Income from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12.5 lakh was taxed at 20%.
- Income from Rs 12.5 lakh to Rs 15 lakh was taxed at 25%.
The new regime lowers the tax rates for certain income brackets, providing more progressive relief compared to the old regime.
Securities Transaction Tax (STT) Hike
The government has announced a doubling of the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) from 0.1% to 0.2%. This increase extends to Futures & Options (F&Os), with the STT on futures rising to 0.02% and on options to 0.01%. These changes are likely to impact traders and investors, potentially leading to higher transaction costs in the financial markets.
Simplified Capital Gains Taxation
Capital gains taxation will see significant changes. Short-term capital gains will now be taxed at a flat rate of 20%, while long-term capital gains (LTCG) will be reduced to 12.5% for certain assets. This overhaul aims to simplify the tax structure and make it more attractive for investors.
Conclusion
The new income tax regime in Budget 2024 offers several benefits for the middle class, with increased standard deductions and lower tax rates for specific income brackets. The changes in STT and capital gains taxation reflect a broader strategy to streamline and modernize the tax system. These adjustments are designed to provide financial relief, stimulate economic activity, and encourage investment, positioning the budget as a forward-looking measure to support the middle class and the broader economy.
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