What is the standard deduction for salaried employees in India?

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The standard deduction is a flat deduction from your salary or pension income. No proof of expenses is needed.

Standard deduction amounts:

Tax Regime Standard Deduction
New tax regime (FY 2025-26) ₹75,000
Old tax regime ₹50,000

Who can claim it:

  • Salaried employees (receiving salary under Section 15)
  • Pensioners (receiving pension under Section 17)
  • Family pension recipients (₹15,000 or 1/3 of pension, whichever is lower, under Section 57)

How it works in the new regime:

Under the new tax regime, the ₹75,000 standard deduction combined with the Section 87A rebate makes income up to ₹12,75,000 effectively tax-free for salaried individuals. Here's the math:

  • Total income: ₹12,75,000
  • Less standard deduction: ₹75,000
  • Taxable income: ₹12,00,000
  • Tax on ₹12,00,000 under new regime: ₹80,000
  • Less Section 87A rebate: ₹80,000
  • Net tax: ₹0

Important points:

  • The standard deduction replaced the earlier transport allowance (₹19,200) and medical reimbursement (₹15,000) from FY 2018-19
  • It is available in both the old and new tax regimes (one of the few deductions allowed in the new regime)
  • It is a per-person deduction. If both spouses are salaried, each can claim it separately
  • No bills, receipts, or investment proofs required. Your employer automatically factors it into TDS calculations

The standard deduction was increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 in the new regime starting FY 2024-25 (Budget 2024). Under the old regime, it remains at ₹50,000.

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Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes and is not professional tax advice. Tax situations vary. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your circumstances.