Opting out of 44ad - tax audit applicability

CA Romil Shah (CA ) (669 Points)

23 August 2019  
My Brother has opted for 44AD in relation to business income for F.Y 2016-17 and 2017-18.

However, my brother residential status for tax year 2018-19 becomes to "Non resident". So, he cannot opt for Presumptive income.

His turnover is around £33Lakh for 2018-19 and income will be between 2.5 to 3.0 Lakh.

My Question (Related to F.Y 2018-19)
As my brother has opted out of Presumptive income for 2018-19, so is it mandatory for him to get his account audited as well maintain books of account?

 

One of consultants told me that tax audit will be applicable in subsequent 5 years not in current year i.e F.Y 18-19 If income chargeable to tax exceeds basic exemption limit.

 

Please advice?