Smart Money Journal: Your Guide to Smart Finance & Investing

Filing your income tax return is an important responsibility that ensures you stay compliant with Indian tax laws . The Income Tax Department has made the process easier with online filing portals and e-filing systems , making it more convenient for taxpayers to file their returns. In this post, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to file your ITR for FY 2025-26 while covering the recent changes and new provisions. Step 1: Gather Your Documents Before you start filing, make sure you have all the necessary documents in place: Form 16 : Issued by your employer, detailing your salary and taxes deducted. Bank Statements : For details on interest income or other earnings. Form 26AS : A summary of taxes already paid or deducted. Investment Details : For claiming deductions under Section 80C, 80D, etc. TDS Certificates : If you are receiving income from sources like rent, freelance work, or professional services. Capital Gains Details : If you’ve sold property, shares,...

The new tax regime offers a simplified approach by reducing tax rates and eliminating the need for tax-saving investments . However, even without deductions like Section 80C or HRA , there are still ways to ensure you save taxes while following this new structure. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective tax-saving strategies for salaried employees who opt for the new tax regime in 2025 : 1️⃣ Understand the New Tax Slabs and Benefits Under the new tax regime , the income tax rates are lower as compared to the old tax regime . Here’s a quick look at the tax slabs for FY 2025-26: Income Tax Rate Up to ₹2.5 Lakh Nil ₹2.5 Lakh to ₹5 Lakh 5% ₹5 Lakh to ₹10 Lakh 20% Above ₹10 Lakh 30% Benefit : By choosing the new tax regime , you can save more if your total income falls under the higher tax slabs of the old regime . But, do keep in mind that you won’t be able to claim deductions and exemptions available under the old regime . Tip : Evaluate both the n...