Section 80TTB, introduced in the Budget of 2018, aims to provide tax relief for senior citizens on interest earned from deposits. Under this provision, senior citizens can enjoy significant tax deductions, making it crucial for those eligible to understand its eligibility criteria, limitations, and benefits fully.
Who Can Claim Deductions Under Section 80TTB?
Section 80 TTB deductions are available only to resident individuals aged 60 or above. Senior citizens holding savings accounts, fixed deposits (FDs), or recurring deposits (RDs) can claim deductions on interest earned from these accounts during the fiscal year.
Deductions Allowed Under Section 80TTB
The deduction limit under Section 80TTB is the lower of:
Total interest amount earned during the fiscal year
Maximum deduction of ₹50,000
For example, if the interest earned in a year is ₹40,000, then the full ₹40,000 can be deducted under Section 80 TTB. However, if the interest exceeds ₹50,000, only ₹50,000 will be eligible for deduction.
Documentation Required for Section 80TTB Deduction
To claim deductions under Section 80 TTB, senior citizens should maintain:
Deductions can only be claimed on interest earned from savings, fixed, and recurring deposits with:
Banking institutions
Post offices
Cooperative societies
Interest earned on company deposits, NCDs (Non-Convertible Debentures), or bonds does not qualify. Additionally, senior citizens opting for the Alternative Tax Regime under Section 115BAC will not be eligible for Section 80 TTB deductions starting FY 2022-23.
How to Avail of Section 80TTB Deductions in ITR
Senior citizens can claim Section 80 TTB deductions by filing their Income Tax Returns (ITR). Here’s how:
Disclose interest income under the “Income from Other Sources” section in ITR.
Report the eligible deduction amount under Section 80 TTB.
Benefits of Section 80TTB for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens enjoy a higher basic exemption limit than regular taxpayers. Section 80 TTB offers additional tax-saving opportunities on interest earnings, reducing their overall tax liability significantly.
Example Calculation
Let’s assume Mr. Ravi, a senior citizen, has earned:
Section 80TTB of the Income Tax Act is a valuable provision for senior citizens, promoting tax savings on interest earnings from deposits. Understanding this section’s provisions, eligibility, and limitations ensures that senior citizens maximize their tax savings effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can avail of deductions under Section 80TTB?
Only resident senior citizens (aged 60 and above) can claim deductions under Section 80TTB.
What is the maximum deduction allowed under Section 80TTB?
The maximum deduction available is ₹50,000 or the actual interest earned, whichever is lower.
Are NRIs eligible for 80TTB deductions?
No, NRIs cannot claim deductions under Section 80TTB. It applies only to resident senior citizens.
Can senior citizens claim deductions under both Sections 80TTA and 80TTB?
No, only one of these sections can be claimed. Section 80TTB provides a higher deduction limit, but only for senior citizens.
What interest earnings are eligible under Section 80TTB?
Interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits, and recurring deposits held with banks, post offices, or cooperative societies qualify under Section 80TTB.