What are the main differences between the old and new tax regimes?

The old tax regime offers multiple deductions and exemptions, including Section 80C (investments), 80D (insurance premiums), HRA (House Rent Allowance), LTA (Leave Travel Allowance), and home loan interest under Section 24. These deductions help in reducing taxable income, making it beneficial for those who have substantial tax-saving investments. On the other hand, the new tax regime offers lower tax rates with fewer exemptions, such as a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals. It simplifies the filing process by removing the need for maintaining extensive documentation for deductions. The new regime is ideal for individuals with minimal deductions or those seeking ease in tax filing.

Can I claim HRA exemption under the new tax regime?

No, HRA exemption is not available under the new tax regime. While the old regime allows taxpayers to claim HRA exemptions based on the rent paid and other factors, the new regime simplifies the filing process but removes such exemptions. If you are someone who rents a house and claims HRA regularly, the old tax regime would likely offer better tax savings due to the ability to exempt rent payments from taxable income.

How does Section 80C work in the old tax regime?

Section 80C allows individuals to claim deductions for investments in specific tax-saving instruments, including PPF (Public Provident Fund), ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme), EPF (Employees' Provident Fund), tax-saving FDs (Fixed Deposits), and life insurance premiums. The maximum amount that can be claimed under Section 80C is ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year. For taxpayers who invest regularly in these instruments, the deductions can significantly reduce taxable income, thus lowering the overall tax burden. It is particularly beneficial for high-income earners who can claim deductions close to the ₹1.5 lakh limit.

Is it worth sticking to the old tax regime if I have significant deductions?

Yes, if you have significant deductions, such as those available under Section 80C, 80D (insurance premiums), home loan interest under Section 24, or HRA, the old tax regime is usually more advantageous. The ability to reduce taxable income by utilizing these deductions can result in substantial tax savings, especially for individuals with higher incomes and significant expenses in tax-saving instruments. If your total deductions exceed ₹5-8 lakh, sticking to the old regime will likely lower your tax liability more than the new regime.

How does the standard deduction in the new tax regime impact my tax savings?

The new tax regime provides a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals, which raises the effective basic exemption limit to ₹12.75 lakh. This standard deduction is available to everyone in the new regime without the need to provide investment proofs. However, while the standard deduction offers tax relief, it is limited compared to the wide range of deductions available under the old regime. For those with minimal deductions or investments, this could be a straightforward option. However, for individuals with significant tax-saving investments, the old regime would still provide greater benefits.

Can I claim home loan interest deductions under the new tax regime?

No, the new tax regime does not allow any deductions for home loan interest under Section 24. In contrast, the old regime allows taxpayers to claim up to ₹2 lakh per year for interest paid on home loans, which can result in substantial tax savings, especially for high-income earners who have large home loan obligations. If home loan interest is a significant part of your financial planning, sticking with the old tax regime would be more advantageous, as it helps reduce taxable income.

Which tax regime is better if my income is between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh?

If your income is between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh, the choice between the old and new regimes depends on your deductions. If you have substantial deductions (for example, under 80C, HRA, or home loan interest), the old regime may be more beneficial, as it allows you to reduce taxable income through these deductions. On the other hand, if your deductions are minimal, the new tax regime’s simplified filing process and lower tax rates may be the better choice, especially with the standard deduction bringing your taxable income closer to the ₹12.75 lakh limit.

Should I switch to the new tax regime if I have no major deductions?

Yes, if you have no major deductions, such as home loan interest, 80C investments, or HRA, the new tax regime is likely to be more beneficial. The new regime offers lower tax rates and a higher basic exemption limit of ₹12.75 lakh for salaried individuals (after considering the standard deduction). It simplifies tax filing by eliminating the need for maintaining proof of deductions, making it ideal for individuals who do not have significant deductions or prefer a hassle-free filing experience.

How does the tax calculation differ for someone earning ₹35 lakh under both regimes?

For an income of ₹35 lakh, the tax calculation in the old tax regime will depend largely on the deductions you can claim. If deductions like 80C, home loan interest, and insurance premiums exceed ₹8 lakh, the taxable income will be significantly reduced, resulting in lower tax liability. In contrast, the new tax regime doesn’t allow these deductions, and while it has lower tax rates across various income slabs, the overall tax liability may be higher due to the absence of deductions. For high-income earners with substantial deductions, the old regime is likely the better option, whereas the new regime might suit those with fewer deductions.

Can I switch between the old and new tax regimes every year?

Yes, taxpayers are allowed to switch between the old and new tax regimes every year when filing income tax returns. However, it’s important to note that once you make a choice at the beginning of the financial year, it is mandatory to stick to that choice throughout the year for salary deductions. The flexibility to switch between regimes annually provides taxpayers with the opportunity to choose the best option based on their income and deductions for that particular year.

What is the best regime for salaried individuals earning less than ₹12 lakh?

For salaried individuals earning less than ₹12 lakh, the new tax regime is often the best option. This is because the new regime offers a higher basic exemption limit of ₹12.75 lakh after considering the ₹75,000 standard deduction, and the tax rates are lower. Additionally, the simplicity of the new regime, with fewer documentation requirements and no need for investment in tax-saving instruments, makes it a more straightforward option for individuals with minimal deductions.

What impact do surcharge rates have on the choice between tax regimes?

Surcharge rates can have a significant impact on high-income earners when choosing between tax regimes. The new tax regime caps the surcharge at 25% for incomes above ₹5 crore, which can result in lower overall tax rates for very high-income individuals. On the other hand, the old tax regime may have higher surcharge rates depending on the income level. For high-net-worth individuals, the new regime could offer better tax efficiency due to the lower surcharge, especially if their deductions are not substantial enough to warrant the complexities of the old regime.

Comparing old vs new tax regime for maximum deductions for FY 2024-2025

Nimisha Panda
Apr 30
13 min read

Updated: May 2

The decision between the old and new tax regimes can significantly impact your tax savings. The Union Budget 2025 introduced crucial changes, especially in the new tax regime, making it essential for taxpayers to carefully evaluate both options. While the old tax regime offers a wide range of deductions and exemptions, the new tax regime simplifies filing with lower tax rates and a higher basic exemption limit. Understanding the key differences and the ideal taxpayer profile for each regime is crucial for maximizing deductions and minimizing tax liabilities.

Comparing Old vs New Tax Regime for Maximum Deductions for FY 2024-25
Key Differences Between Old and New Tax Regimes
How Deductions Work in the Old Tax Regime
Is HRA Exemption Allowed in New Tax Regime?
How 80C Deductions Work in the Old Tax Regime
Is 80C Available in the New Tax Regime?
How Does the Standard Deduction in New Regime Compare to Old Tax Regime?
How Deductions for Home Loan Interest Work in the Old Tax Regime
Is Home Loan Interest Deduction Allowed in the New Tax Regime?
Practical Scenarios: Choosing Between Old and New Tax Regimes
Example 1: Income ₹13 Lakh (Salaried) - Which Regime Works Best?
Example 2: Income ₹35 Lakh (High Income) - Which Tax Regime Saves More?
Additional Considerations When Choosing Between Regimes
FAQs

Comparing Old vs New Tax Regime for Maximum Deductions for FY 2024-25

When comparing the old and new tax regimes, the most significant factor in maximizing deductions lies in the types of deductions available and their limits. The old tax regime allows for a variety of deductions such as those under Section 80C, 80D, HRA, and home loan interest, making it ideal for taxpayers with large investments and expenses. In contrast, the new tax regime simplifies tax filing by offering lower tax rates across more slabs and a higher basic exemption limit but limits deductions to a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals. For taxpayers with limited deductions or those preferring less paperwork, the new tax regime might be a better choice. However, individuals with substantial deductions could still find the old regime more advantageous, as it offers the potential for significantly reducing taxable income. Understanding your income, deductions, and financial goals is key to choosing the regime that maximizes your savings for FY 2024-25.

Key Differences Between Old and New Tax Regimes

Overview of the basic exemptions and tax slabs

The primary distinction between the old and new tax regimes lies in the basic exemptions and tax slabs. In the old tax regime, the basic exemption limit is ₹2.5 lakh, with various tax slabs based on income. The new tax regime, introduced in recent budgets, offers a higher basic exemption limit of ₹12 lakh for salaried individuals after the standard deduction, providing a broader range of tax relief for those with minimal deductions. The tax slabs in the new regime are more progressive, with rates ranging from 0% to 30%, making it potentially beneficial for lower and middle-income earners.

How deductions and exemptions vary between the two regimes

The old tax regime allows taxpayers to claim various deductions, such as those under Section 80C (for investments), Section 80D (for insurance), HRA (House Rent Allowance), LTA (Leave Travel Allowance), and home loan interest, significantly reducing the taxable income. Conversely, the new tax regime eliminates most of these deductions, offering only a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals. This makes the new tax regime attractive for individuals who prefer simplicity and lower documentation but less ideal for those who can benefit from significant deductions.

Ideal taxpayer profile for each regime

The old tax regime is ideal for individuals with large deductions, such as those claiming 80C, HRA, home loan interest, or medical insurance premiums. High-income earners with deductions over ₹5-8 lakh can maximize their savings through this regime. The new tax regime, on the other hand, works best for individuals with limited deductions or those preferring a simpler filing process. It is suitable for those with income below ₹12.75 lakh who prefer to avoid the burden of managing complex deductions.

How Deductions Work in the Old Tax Regime

Overview of popular deductions available (80C, 80D, HRA, etc.)

Under the old tax regime, several deductions are available that reduce taxable income. Section 80C allows for investments in PPF, EPF, ELSS, and life insurance premiums, up to a limit of ₹1.5 lakh. Section 80D provides deductions for premiums paid on health insurance policies, while HRA offers exemptions for rent paid by salaried individuals. Additionally, deductions for home loan interest under Section 24 and Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) for travel expenses incurred by employees are available.

Detailed examples on claiming deductions

For instance, a taxpayer making a ₹1 lakh contribution to PPF and ₹30,000 in health insurance premiums can claim ₹1.3 lakh in deductions. Similarly, an individual paying ₹10,000 monthly in rent can claim HRA exemption, reducing their taxable income further. These deductions can substantially lower the overall taxable income, depending on the individual's financial situation.

When the old tax regime is advantageous for maximizing deductions

The old tax regime is beneficial when taxpayers have significant deductions or exemptions to claim, particularly in the case of high-income earners who invest in tax-saving instruments like PPF, ELSS, and have significant home loan interest payments. If the total deductions exceed ₹5 lakh, the old regime can result in a considerably lower tax liability compared to the new regime.

Is HRA Exemption Allowed in New Tax Regime?

How HRA exemption works in the old tax regime

In the old tax regime, HRA exemption is available to salaried individuals who live in rented accommodation. The exemption amount is calculated based on the actual rent paid, the individual's salary, and the city of residence. For example, if a person pays ₹15,000 monthly rent and earns ₹40,000 monthly, they can claim a portion of their rent as HRA exemption, reducing taxable income.

Limitations of HRA exemption under the new regime

Under the new tax regime, HRA exemption is not available. The new regime simplifies the filing process but eliminates deductions like HRA, making it less advantageous for those who rely on HRA exemptions for significant tax savings. This makes the old regime more attractive for individuals who can claim HRA benefits.

Who should opt for which regime based on HRA benefits?

Taxpayers who are tenants and can claim substantial HRA exemptions should stick to the old tax regime. However, those with minimal or no rent-related expenses may benefit from the simplicity and lower tax rates of the new regime. In such cases, the new regime could provide a better overall tax experience.

How 80C Deductions Work in the Old Tax Regime

Explanation of 80C and other investment-based deductions

Section 80C allows individuals to claim deductions for investments made in eligible financial instruments such as PPF, EPF, LIC, tax-saving FDs, and ELSS, with a maximum limit of ₹1.5 lakh per year. Additionally, contributions to the National Pension System (NPS) under Section 80CCD(1) are also eligible for deductions, up to ₹50,000.

How taxpayers with significant investments benefit from the old regime

Taxpayers with substantial investments in 80C-eligible instruments can significantly reduce their taxable income. For instance, if an individual invests ₹1.5 lakh in PPF, ₹50,000 in NPS, and ₹50,000 in LIC premiums, their taxable income can be reduced by ₹3 lakh, leading to substantial tax savings.

Who should stick with the old regime for maximizing 80C deductions?

Taxpayers with large investments and expenses that qualify for deductions under 80C, such as those saving in PPF, NPS, and life insurance, should stick with the old tax regime to maximize deductions. This regime provides considerable tax relief for individuals who can claim these deductions.

Is 80C Available in the New Tax Regime?

Availability of 80C and other deductions under the new regime

Under the new tax regime, the benefit of 80C and other similar deductions is not available. The regime simplifies filing but does not allow taxpayers to reduce taxable income through investments in PPF, ELSS, or other eligible instruments.

Pros and cons of the new regime for taxpayers with limited 80C deductions

For individuals with minimal 80C deductions, the new tax regime might be advantageous due to lower tax rates and a higher exemption limit. The regime’s simplicity and lower documentation requirements make it a good choice for individuals who do not have significant investments to claim under 80C.

Example scenarios for deciding between regimes based on 80C benefits

If a taxpayer has limited or no 80C deductions, such as a young individual with no home loan or life insurance, the new tax regime may be the better option due to its simplicity and higher exemption limit. However, if an individual is maximizing deductions with a ₹1.5 lakh investment in PPF, sticking to the old regime will yield greater tax benefits.

How Does the Standard Deduction in New Regime Compare to Old Tax Regime?

Understanding the ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals

In the new tax regime, salaried individuals are entitled to a ₹75,000 standard deduction, which increases the basic exemption limit effectively to ₹12.75 lakh. This deduction reduces taxable income but is limited compared to the broad range of deductions available under the old regime.

Why the new tax regime might be better for taxpayers with minimal deductions

For individuals with limited deductions (such as no home loan or investments), the new regime may be more beneficial as it offers a simple, streamlined process with a higher exemption limit. The lower tax rates across several slabs also make it an attractive choice for individuals with minimal or no tax-saving investments.

When is the standard deduction the deciding factor in regime choice?

The standard deduction becomes a deciding factor when taxpayers have minimal deductions and prefer simplicity. It helps lower taxable income without requiring the maintenance of records or proofs, making the new tax regime an appealing choice for salaried individuals without significant tax-saving investments.

How Deductions for Home Loan Interest Work in the Old Tax Regime

Claiming interest on home loans under the old regime

Under the old tax regime, taxpayers can claim deductions of up to ₹2 lakh per year for interest paid on home loans under Section 24(b). This is a significant benefit for those paying substantial amounts in home loan interest.

Impact on overall tax savings for high-income earners with home loans

For high-income earners with large home loan interest payments, the old regime can significantly reduce taxable income, especially when combined with other deductions like 80C and 80D. This makes it an attractive option for those with significant housing-related expenses.

When the old regime is better for home loan deduction maximization

The old regime is better for individuals with large home loan interest payments, particularly for high-income earners who have other deductions to claim. It provides a more substantial reduction in taxable income compared to the new regime, where home loan interest deductions are not available.

Is Home Loan Interest Deduction Allowed in the New Tax Regime?

Restrictions on home loan interest deduction under the new tax regime

The new tax regime does not allow deductions for home loan interest, eliminating a key benefit available under the old regime. This makes the new regime less attractive for homeowners with significant home loan interest payments.

Who should prefer the old regime for home loan tax benefits?

Homeowners with large home loan interest payments should prefer the old tax regime to take advantage of the ₹2 lakh deduction on interest. The new regime does not offer any tax relief in this regard, making it unsuitable for those with substantial home loan liabilities.

Practical Scenarios: Choosing Between Old and New Tax Regimes

Income up to ₹12.75 lakh: When the new regime works better

For taxpayers earning up to ₹12.75 lakh with limited deductions, the new regime is usually the better choice due to the higher basic exemption limit and simplicity in filing.

Income between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh: Which regime maximizes deductions?

Between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh, individuals with significant deductions may benefit from the old regime, while those with limited deductions might find the new regime more advantageous.

Income above ₹24 lakh: Which regime saves more tax?

For individuals earning above ₹24 lakh, the old regime can lead to substantial tax savings, especially if they have significant deductions. However, high-income earners with limited deductions may still find the new regime appealing due to the lower tax rates across multiple slabs.

Example 1: Income ₹13 Lakh (Salaried) - Which Regime Works Best?

Detailed comparison of tax liabilities in both regimes

For an income of ₹13 lakh, the new regime provides a lower tax liability due to the ₹75,000 standard deduction. However, if deductions such as HRA or 80C are available, the old regime may be more beneficial. This scenario depends on the taxpayer's ability to claim deductions.

When the new regime is preferable for salaried individuals

The new regime is preferable for those without significant deductions or exemptions, offering a straightforward and lower tax liability with minimal documentation.

Example 2: Income ₹35 Lakh (High Income) - Which Tax Regime Saves More?

How the old regime can significantly reduce taxable income for high-income earners

For individuals earning ₹35 lakh, the old regime can significantly reduce taxable income if they have large deductions. With deductions exceeding ₹8 lakh, the old regime will result in a lower tax liability.

When the new regime still provides benefits despite fewer deductions

For individuals with limited deductions, the new regime may still provide benefits through its lower tax slabs, particularly when combined with the higher exemption limit.

Additional Considerations When Choosing Between Regimes

Surcharge rates and their impact on high-income earners

Surcharge rates differ between the two regimes, especially for high-income earners. The new regime caps the surcharge at 25%, making it more favorable for very high earners.

Flexibility to switch between regimes while filing returns

Taxpayers can switch between the old and new tax regimes while filing their returns, offering flexibility to choose the most beneficial option for the year.

Important points to consider when switching between regimes annually

When switching between regimes, it is important to carefully evaluate deductions, exemptions, and taxable income to ensure the best tax outcome for the year.

FAQs

What are the main differences between the old and new tax regimes?
The old tax regime offers multiple deductions and exemptions, including Section 80C (investments), 80D (insurance premiums), HRA (House Rent Allowance), LTA (Leave Travel Allowance), and home loan interest under Section 24. These deductions help in reducing taxable income, making it beneficial for those who have substantial tax-saving investments. On the other hand, the new tax regime offers lower tax rates with fewer exemptions, such as a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals. It simplifies the filing process by removing the need for maintaining extensive documentation for deductions. The new regime is ideal for individuals with minimal deductions or those seeking ease in tax filing.
Can I claim HRA exemption under the new tax regime?
No, HRA exemption is not available under the new tax regime. While the old regime allows taxpayers to claim HRA exemptions based on the rent paid and other factors, the new regime simplifies the filing process but removes such exemptions. If you are someone who rents a house and claims HRA regularly, the old tax regime would likely offer better tax savings due to the ability to exempt rent payments from taxable income.
How does Section 80C work in the old tax regime?
Section 80C allows individuals to claim deductions for investments in specific tax-saving instruments, including PPF (Public Provident Fund), ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme), EPF (Employees' Provident Fund), tax-saving FDs (Fixed Deposits), and life insurance premiums. The maximum amount that can be claimed under Section 80C is ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year. For taxpayers who invest regularly in these instruments, the deductions can significantly reduce taxable income, thus lowering the overall tax burden. It is particularly beneficial for high-income earners who can claim deductions close to the ₹1.5 lakh limit.
Is it worth sticking to the old tax regime if I have significant deductions?
Yes, if you have significant deductions, such as those available under Section 80C, 80D (insurance premiums), home loan interest under Section 24, or HRA, the old tax regime is usually more advantageous. The ability to reduce taxable income by utilizing these deductions can result in substantial tax savings, especially for individuals with higher incomes and significant expenses in tax-saving instruments. If your total deductions exceed ₹5-8 lakh, sticking to the old regime will likely lower your tax liability more than the new regime.
How does the standard deduction in the new tax regime impact my tax savings?
The new tax regime provides a ₹75,000 standard deduction for salaried individuals, which raises the effective basic exemption limit to ₹12.75 lakh. This standard deduction is available to everyone in the new regime without the need to provide investment proofs. However, while the standard deduction offers tax relief, it is limited compared to the wide range of deductions available under the old regime. For those with minimal deductions or investments, this could be a straightforward option. However, for individuals with significant tax-saving investments, the old regime would still provide greater benefits.
Can I claim home loan interest deductions under the new tax regime?
No, the new tax regime does not allow any deductions for home loan interest under Section 24. In contrast, the old regime allows taxpayers to claim up to ₹2 lakh per year for interest paid on home loans, which can result in substantial tax savings, especially for high-income earners who have large home loan obligations. If home loan interest is a significant part of your financial planning, sticking with the old tax regime would be more advantageous, as it helps reduce taxable income.
Which tax regime is better if my income is between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh?
If your income is between ₹12.75 lakh and ₹20 lakh, the choice between the old and new regimes depends on your deductions. If you have substantial deductions (for example, under 80C, HRA, or home loan interest), the old regime may be more beneficial, as it allows you to reduce taxable income through these deductions. On the other hand, if your deductions are minimal, the new tax regime’s simplified filing process and lower tax rates may be the better choice, especially with the standard deduction bringing your taxable income closer to the ₹12.75 lakh limit.
Should I switch to the new tax regime if I have no major deductions?
Yes, if you have no major deductions, such as home loan interest, 80C investments, or HRA, the new tax regime is likely to be more beneficial. The new regime offers lower tax rates and a higher basic exemption limit of ₹12.75 lakh for salaried individuals (after considering the standard deduction). It simplifies tax filing by eliminating the need for maintaining proof of deductions, making it ideal for individuals who do not have significant deductions or prefer a hassle-free filing experience.
How does the tax calculation differ for someone earning ₹35 lakh under both regimes?
For an income of ₹35 lakh, the tax calculation in the old tax regime will depend largely on the deductions you can claim. If deductions like 80C, home loan interest, and insurance premiums exceed ₹8 lakh, the taxable income will be significantly reduced, resulting in lower tax liability. In contrast, the new tax regime doesn’t allow these deductions, and while it has lower tax rates across various income slabs, the overall tax liability may be higher due to the absence of deductions. For high-income earners with substantial deductions, the old regime is likely the better option, whereas the new regime might suit those with fewer deductions.
Can I switch between the old and new tax regimes every year?
Yes, taxpayers are allowed to switch between the old and new tax regimes every year when filing income tax returns. However, it’s important to note that once you make a choice at the beginning of the financial year, it is mandatory to stick to that choice throughout the year for salary deductions. The flexibility to switch between regimes annually provides taxpayers with the opportunity to choose the best option based on their income and deductions for that particular year.
What is the best regime for salaried individuals earning less than ₹12 lakh?
For salaried individuals earning less than ₹12 lakh, the new tax regime is often the best option. This is because the new regime offers a higher basic exemption limit of ₹12.75 lakh after considering the ₹75,000 standard deduction, and the tax rates are lower. Additionally, the simplicity of the new regime, with fewer documentation requirements and no need for investment in tax-saving instruments, makes it a more straightforward option for individuals with minimal deductions.
What impact do surcharge rates have on the choice between tax regimes?
Surcharge rates can have a significant impact on high-income earners when choosing between tax regimes. The new tax regime caps the surcharge at 25% for incomes above ₹5 crore, which can result in lower overall tax rates for very high-income individuals. On the other hand, the old tax regime may have higher surcharge rates depending on the income level. For high-net-worth individuals, the new regime could offer better tax efficiency due to the lower surcharge, especially if their deductions are not substantial enough to warrant the complexities of the old regime.