Professional tax (salary)

In India, the professional tax is imposed at the state level. However, not all the states impose this tax, the following states impose this levy in India – Karnataka, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamilnadu, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Business owners, working individuals, merchants and people carrying out various occupations comes under the purview of this tax.

Professional tax is levied by particular Municipal Corporations and majority of the Indian states impose this duty. It is a source of revenue for the government. The maximum amount payable per year is Rs.2,400/- and in line with your salary, there are predetermined slabs. It is paid by every member of staff employed in private companies. It is subtracted by the employer each month and sent to the Municipal Corporation. It is compulsory just like income tax. You will be eligible for income tax deduction for this payment.

Criteria in various states of India

In Maharashtra, this duty is applicable both on individuals and companies as laid down by the guidelines of the Maharashtra Professional Tax Act of 1975.

Every individual living in Maharashtra, involved in any business, profession, occupation or employment is legally responsible to pay it and has to get a Certificate of Enrolment from the Professional Authority.

As soon as you receive this certificate, you can fulfill your personal tax liability for 5 years by making a one-time payment, which is equivalent to the sum of Professional Tax for 4 years beforehand, getting relief for payment of one year.

In Tamil Nadu, it is imposed by the Municipal Council on businessmen, professionals, and employed individuals.

Every company which conducts business and every individual, who is involved directly in any business, occupation, or employment in the town panchayat on the first day of the half-year for which return has been submitted, needs to pay biannual tax at the rates stipulated.

Professional Tax Slabs in Various States

In West Bengal

In Maharashtra

In Tamil Nadu

In New Delhi