Income Tax Return Filing: Who's Obligated under Budget 2025?

Ans: Salary income is taxed at slab rate i.e. from 3 to 7 lacs 5% and 7 to 10 lakhs 10% in FY 2023-24.

Tax on capital gain will depend on date of sale as tax rate is changed from 23rd July. Tax rate also depends on type of gain i.e. short or long term.

Ans: You will have to talk to the college regarding their rules and request them for the degree.

Ans: Can file a case against the university. In most cases the university will try to settle before it goes to the court. Simultaneously can look at option of doing correspondence post graduation where you can get admission based on your current credentials.

Ans: Yes you can claim refund of TDS as you are required to show gain amount and CGAS amount in ITR.

If you fail to purchase the property, you will be required to pay tax in the year of expiry of period allowed for purchase/construction

Ans: Your long-term investment plan is well-structured and shows a strong commitment. Since your goal is to maximize returns for your daughter’s education and marriage, let’s evaluate your approach from multiple angles.

Investment Horizon and Discipline
A 25-year investment horizon is a strong advantage.
Staying invested through market cycles can help compound your wealth.
Adding more funds during market corrections is a smart approach.
Avoid panic selling during market downturns.
Disadvantages of Index ETFs
Index ETFs do not aim to beat the market.
They follow a fixed set of stocks, limiting growth potential.
Active funds adjust portfolios to maximize returns.
ETFs do not benefit from expert fund management.
Some ETFs struggle with liquidity and tracking errors.
Advantages of Actively Managed Funds
Fund managers select high-growth stocks.
They adjust portfolios based on market conditions.
Active funds can outperform indices over long periods.
Well-managed funds can deliver higher alpha.
Diversification within active funds helps reduce risk.
Portfolio Diversification
Your investments cover large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap segments.
Exposure to international markets adds diversification.
Including thematic and sectoral funds increases risk but can yield high returns.
A balanced mix of growth and stability is important.
Potential Portfolio Improvements
Reducing ETF allocation can improve long-term returns.
A mix of flexi-cap and focused funds can enhance growth.
Too many funds can dilute portfolio performance.
Reducing overlapping funds may improve efficiency.
Mid and small-cap allocation should align with your risk profile.
Investment Through a Certified Financial Planner
Direct plans lack expert guidance.
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps in fund selection.
Portfolio rebalancing is crucial for maximizing returns.
Regular funds through a CFP provide structured wealth management.
Risk Management and Market Corrections
Market downturns are opportunities, not threats.
Investing extra during dips can boost returns.
Avoid over-concentration in a single asset type.
Ensure an emergency fund before deploying surplus.
Taxation Impact on Mutual Fund Returns
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
International fund taxation differs from domestic equity funds.
Reviewing tax implications can optimize post-tax returns.
Inflation and Future Planning
Education costs will rise significantly over 25 years.
Inflation-adjusted returns matter more than absolute returns.
Staying invested in high-growth funds helps beat inflation.
Regular portfolio reviews ensure alignment with goals.
Final Insights
Your plan is strong but needs fine-tuning.
Reducing ETF exposure can improve long-term gains.
Active fund management provides better growth potential.
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures structured wealth building.
Market corrections should be used strategically for additional investments.
Periodic review and rebalancing will keep your portfolio on track.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

Ans: 01. First of all, kindly confirm what was your Income during A/Y 2022-23.
02. If this income was less than Rs.2,50,000.00, you may not file your ITR.
03. If your income during this period was more than Rs.2,50,000.00, it is mandatory for you to file your ITR.
04. You may file Updated ITR, if para no.3 above is applicable in your case.
05. Otherwise write to IT Department that your income was below minimum taxable limit, as such you are not required to file ITR. In this case, you are not required to take any action on the mail of department.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.

Ans: Hello;

You may update your service record through your current employer based on documentary proofs to substantiate your claim.

If the employer doesn't co-operate or this doesn't work you may raise grievance at EPFiGMS portal.

Best wishes;

Ans: Hello;

If you have been in service for more then 10 years without any break while being contributing member of EPFO, then you are eligible for EPS.

If you sign-in into the EPFO portal you get your PPO by clicking on the "Know your PPO number" link.

Best wishes;

Ans: 01. I feel Form ITR-02 would be applicable in your case.
02. You need to declare the Sale & Cost of shares you have sold to work out LTCG/STCG.
03. If shares sold are of Listed company, it shall be covered under LTCG.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.