10 August 2024
Yes, pension income is taxable, and you need to consider it when filing your income tax return. Here’s how you should handle it:
### **1. Taxability of Pension Income:**
- **Pension as Income:** Pension received by an individual is taxable under the head "Income from Salary" as per the Income Tax Act, 1961. This is considered as a form of salary and is subject to tax.
- **Exemptions and Deductions:** - **Pension Amount:** In the case of a private pension, there are no specific exemptions; the entire amount is taxable. - **Standard Deduction:** You can claim a standard deduction of ₹50,000 on salary income, which includes pension.
### **2. Filing Your Income Tax Return:**
- **ITR Form Selection:** - **ITR-1 (Sahaj):** If you have only pension income and income from other sources like interest and if your total income does not exceed ₹50 lakh, you should ideally file ITR-1. - **ITR-4:** This form is used for individuals who have income from a profession or business, and it is not typically required for individuals who only have pension and interest income.
- **TDS Refund under Section 194J:** - **Section 194J:** This section pertains to TDS on professional fees, and if you have received TDS under this section, it needs to be reported in your return to claim a refund. - **ITR-4:** This form is for individuals who are carrying out a profession or business, and you would use this form if you have additional income from a profession or business.
### **Steps to File Your Return:**
1. **Determine Income Sources:** - Include pension income under the salary section. - Add any other income you may have, such as from profession or business, if applicable.
2. **Select the Correct ITR Form:** - **ITR-1:** Suitable if your total income includes salary (pension), interest income, and other income sources but does not involve business or profession. - **ITR-4:** Use this if you have income from a profession or business.
3. **Fill Out the Return:** - Report pension income under the "Salary" section. - Report any TDS on professional fees (if applicable) in the "Tax Paid and Verification" section. - Claim a refund for the excess TDS deducted by providing the correct details in your return.
4. **File Your Return:** - E-file your return through the Income Tax e-filing portal. - Ensure you provide accurate details and claim all eligible deductions and exemptions.
### **Summary:**
- **Pension Income:** Yes, it is taxable and should be included in your income while filing your return. - **ITR Form:** Use ITR-1 if you have only pension and other income sources and no profession or business income. Use ITR-4 if you are also engaged in a profession or business. - **Claim Refund:** Report TDS under the appropriate section to claim a refund if TDS has been deducted and you are entitled to a refund.
If you have any doubts or complex scenarios, it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or accountant to ensure that you are filing correctly and claiming any eligible refunds.