21 July 2024
Yes, a Deemed Let Out Property (DLOP) is required to be included in the calculation of income for taxation purposes in India. Here’s how it works practically:
### Understanding Deemed Let Out Property (DLOP):
Under the Income Tax Act, 1961, if an individual owns more than one house property and does not use them for residential purposes throughout the year, certain properties are deemed to be let out. This means even if the property is not actually rented out, the income tax laws assume that it is let out and generate rental income.
### Practical Implications:
1. **Calculation of Income:** - The rental value of the property (based on market rates) is treated as rental income. - This rental income is added to the individual’s total income for the year.
2. **Taxation:** - The rental income from the Deemed Let Out Property is subject to income tax under the head 'Income from House Property'. - Standard deductions such as 30% of the annual value (for repairs and maintenance) and deduction of municipal taxes paid are allowed.
3. **Taxation of Multiple Properties:** - If an individual owns multiple properties, only one property is treated as self-occupied (if applicable), and the rest are deemed let out. - The individual has the option to choose which property to treat as self-occupied, typically the one that offers the maximum tax benefit.
4. **Filing of Income Tax Return:** - In the Income Tax Return (ITR), details of all owned properties, whether self-occupied or deemed let out, must be disclosed. - The deemed rental income should be computed and included in the calculation of total income.
### Example:
Suppose an individual owns two residential properties: - Property A is self-occupied. - Property B is deemed let out because it is not used for residential purposes.
Even if Property B is not rented out to an actual tenant, the individual must calculate and declare the deemed rental income from Property B in their income tax return.
### Conclusion:
In practice, deemed let out properties are crucial for income tax calculations. They require individuals to include notional rental income in their total income, thereby affecting their tax liability. Properly declaring and calculating income from deemed let out properties is essential to comply with income tax laws and avoid penalties or scrutiny from tax authorities.