In the Indian Income Tax system, different Income Tax Returns (ITRs) cater to various categories of taxpayers based on their income sources and nature of income. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between ITR-1, ITR-2, ITR-3, and ITR-4:

1. ITR-1 :

  • Eligibility:
    • For resident individuals.
    • Income from salary/pension.
    • Income from one house property.
    • Other sources of income (e.g., interest).
    • Total income should not exceed ₹50 lakh.
  • Not Eligible:
    • If you have income from capital gains, business or profession.
    • If you hold directorship in a company or have investments in unlisted equity shares.
  • Features:
    • Simplified form for individuals with straightforward financial scenarios.
    • Suitable for salaried individuals, pensioners, and those with minor investments.

2. ITR-2:

  • Eligibility:
    • For individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs).
    • If you have income from salary/pension.
    • Income from more than one house property.
    • Capital gains (short-term or long-term).
    • Income from other sources (e.g., interest, dividends).
  • Not Eligible:
    • If you have income from business or profession (you need ITR-3 or ITR-4 in such cases).
  • Features:
    • Suitable for individuals with multiple sources of income and those who need to report capital gains.

3. ITR-3:

  • Eligibility:
    • For individuals and HUFs.
    • If you have income from a business or profession. (F&O traders treating their income as business income)
    • Also applicable if you have income from salary/pension.
    • Income from more than one house property.
    • Capital gains.
    • Income from other sources.
  • Not Eligible:
    • If you wish to opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under section 44ADA, then ITR-4 would be more appropriate.
  • Features:
    • Suitable for professionals like doctors, accountants, or anyone running a business.
    • Requires detailed reporting of business income and expenses.

4. ITR-4 :

  • Eligibility:
    • For individuals, HUFs, and firms (other than LLP).
    • If you have income from a business or profession and opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under section 44AD, 44ADA, or 44AE.
    • Income from salary/pension.
    • Income from one house property.
    • Other sources of income.
  • Not Eligible:
    • If your income exceeds the presumptive limit or if you have income from capital gains.
  • Features:
    • Designed for those who opt for a simplified taxation scheme, meaning they can declare income on a presumptive basis rather than keeping detailed accounts.

Summary:

  • ITR-1: Simple, for salaried individuals with basic income.
  • ITR-2: For those with more complex income sources like capital gains or multiple house properties.
  • ITR-3: For those running a business or profession along with other income.
  • ITR-4: For those opting for presumptive taxation, including small businesses and professionals with simplified accounting.

Choosing the correct form is essential for compliance and ensuring accurate reporting of income.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *