Should I choose the old or new tax regime? A question from Sanjeev Kumar, a pharmaceutical worker in Himachal Pradesh.

Ans: Based on the information you have provided, you can calculate your tax liability under both the old tax regime and the new tax regime to see which one is more beneficial for you.

Under the old tax regime, you can claim deductions under Section 80C for your home loan principal repayment, ELSS, life insurance premium, tuition fees, and PPF, which amounts to a total deduction of up to INR 1.5 lakh. In addition, you can claim a deduction of up to INR 25,000 for medical insurance premium under Section 80D. Your total deductions would be INR 1.75 lakh, which reduces your taxable income to INR 10.25 lakh.

Your tax liability under the old tax regime would be as follows:

Up to INR 2.5 lakh: Nil
INR 2.5 lakh to INR 5 lakh: 5% of (taxable income - INR 2.5 lakh)
INR 5 lakh to INR 7.5 lakh: INR 12,500 + 10% of (taxable income - INR 5 lakh)
INR 7.5 lakh to INR 10 lakh: INR 37,500 + 15% of (taxable income - INR 7.5 lakh)
INR 10 lakh to INR 12.5 lakh: INR 75,000 + 20% of (taxable income - INR 10 lakh)
Above INR 12.5 lakh: INR 1,25,000 + 30% of (taxable income - INR 12.5 lakh)
Under the new tax regime, you cannot claim the deductions under Section 80C, Section 80D, and other sections. However, you can claim a standard deduction of INR 50,000. Your taxable income would be INR 11.1 lakh.

Your tax liability under the new tax regime would be as follows:

Up to INR 2.5 lakh: Nil
INR 2.5 lakh to INR 5 lakh: 5% of (taxable income - INR 2.5 lakh)
INR 5 lakh to INR 7.5 lakh: INR 12,500 + 10% of (taxable income - INR 5 lakh)
INR 7.5 lakh to INR 10 lakh: INR 37,500 + 15% of (taxable income - INR 7.5 lakh)
INR 10 lakh to INR 12.5 lakh: INR 75,000 + 20% of (taxable income - INR 10 lakh)
Above INR 12.5 lakh: INR 1,25,000 + 30% of (taxable income - INR 12.5 lakh)
Based on the above calculations, it seems like the old tax regime may be more beneficial for you as your taxable income would be lower due to the deductions under Section 80C and Section 80D. However, you should consult a tax expert or a financial advisor to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

Ans: Since you have eligible deductions of over Rs. 3.70 Lacs it is better to go with the old tax regime.

Plz. seek help from a tax advisor/CA for further clarity.