Introduction
The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced transformative reforms to simplify taxation, boost disposable income, and empower India’s middle class. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman focuses on fiscal prudence and economic growth. Her proposals aim to reshape how individuals manage their finances. They are designed to influence investments and tax liabilities. In this blog, we break down the key changes. We analyze their impact on your wallet and provide actionable insights. These insights help you maximize savings.
Plus, access our exclusive Google Spreadsheet to calculate your tax savings under the new regime!
1. New Income Tax Slabs: Middle-Class Relief Takes Center Stage
The Budget’s standout feature is the revised tax structure under the New Tax Regime (NTR), which raises the tax-free income threshold to ₹12 lakh (₹12.75 lakh for salaried individuals after a ₹75,000 standard deduction). Here’s the breakdown:
| Income Slab (₹) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| 0 – 4,00,000 | 0% |
| 4,00,001 – 8,00,000 | 5% |
| 8,00,001 – 12,00,000 | 10% |
| 12,00,001 – 16,00,000 | 15% |
| 16,00,001 – 20,00,000 | 20% |
| 20,00,001 – 24,00,000 | 25% |
| Above 24,00,000 | 30% |
Key Takeaway: A taxpayer earning ₹12 lakh pays zero tax after applying the ₹60,000 rebate under Section 87A. For example, a ₹15 lakh earner saves ₹36,400 annually.
Pro Tip: Use our Google Spreadsheet to compare old vs. new regime liabilities and choose the optimal plan.
2. Property Tax Reforms: Dual Homes, Zero Notional Rent
Homeowners rejoice! Budget 2025 allows two self-occupied properties to be declared tax-free, eliminating notional rental income on the second home. Previously, only one property qualified.
Impact:
- A second home valued at ₹30,000 monthly rent saves ₹1.08 lakh annually (assuming 30% tax slab).
- TDS on Rent threshold raised to ₹6 lakh/year (from ₹2.4 lakh), reducing compliance for landlords.
3. Senior Citizen Benefits: Higher Interest Deductions and NSS Relief
Retirees gain significant relief:
- Interest Income TDS Exemption doubled to ₹1 lakh/year for senior citizens.
- National Savings Scheme (NSS) withdrawals post-August 29, 2024, are tax-free if deductions were claimed earlier.
Example: A senior with ₹1.2 lakh interest income saves ₹15,600 annually (after 10% TDS).
4. ULIPs and Debt Mutual Funds: Tax Efficiency Redefined
ULIPs:
- Policies with premiums above ₹2.5 lakh/year taxed as capital gains (12.5% LTCG) instead of income (up to 30%). Aligns with equity funds.
Debt Mutual Funds:
- Post-April 2023 purchases under Section 50AA qualify for tax rebates. For instance, redeeming ₹12 lakh post-April 2025 saves ₹83,200.
Caution: Pre-2023 debt funds taxed at 12.5% LTCG with no rebates.
5. Crypto and Capital Gains: Stricter Compliance, Higher Risks
Crypto investors face tighter rules:
- 30% flat tax on gains, 1% TDS per trade, and no loss offsets.
- Mandatory disclosure of transactions under Section 285BAA, treating crypto as “undisclosed income” akin to gambling.
Advisory: Limit exposure to 2–5% of net worth and avoid speculative tokens.
6. NPS Vatsalya and Startup Incentives: Future-Proofing Investments
- NPS Vatsalya: Contributions for minors now eligible for ₹50,000 deductions under Section 80CCD(1B). Partial withdrawals tax-free.
- Startups: Section 80-IAC extended until 2030, fostering innovation and job creation.
7. TDS/TCS Simplifications: Easing Compliance
- LRS Threshold: Raised to ₹10 lakh (from ₹7 lakh). No TCS on education loans.
- Dividend Income: TDS exemption up to ₹10,000 (from ₹5,000).
Google Spreadsheet: Calculate Your Tax Savings
Maximize your savings with our interactive tool:
Budget 2025 Tax Calculator
Features:
- Compare old vs. new regime liabilities.
- Factor in deductions (Section 80C, 80D, HRA).
- Auto-calculate surcharge and cess.
Conclusion: Smart Moves for FY2025-26
Budget 2025-26 prioritizes middle-class empowerment through tax rationalization, property relief, and investment incentives. To capitalize:
- Switch to the New Tax Regime if income is under ₹24 lakh.
- Reallocate ULIPs and debt funds for tax efficiency.
- Leverage dual home tax benefits and senior citizen perks.
Stay ahead with Finvestinn’s expert analyses and tools.






