The Press Information Bureau ( PIB ) has dispelled the authenticity of the viral message circulating on social media, that Senior Citizens above 75 years of age will not have to pay taxes as fake, on X (formerly twitter).
PIB has also outlined the correct facts about the fake news spreading on social media platforms like WhatsApp.
The circulating message on social media asserts that in celebration of India’s 75th Independence Anniversary, senior citizens over the age of 75 will be exempt from paying income tax.
Despite being red-flagged by PIB, the erroneous message continues to spread across platforms like WhatsApp and other social media channels, misleading many about the current tax regulations for senior citizens.
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First, we must understand who qualifies as a senior citizen for income tax purposes and the existing exemptions:
An individual resident who is 60 years or older but below 80 years during the previous financial year is classified as a Senior Citizen. Those aged 80 years and above are termed Super Senior Citizens.
Income Tax Return ( ITR ) Exemption: Under Section 194P of the Income Tax Act, 1961, certain senior citizens aged 75 and above are exempt from filing income tax returns. This provision has been in effect since April 1, 2021.
Conditions for ITR Exemption
Senior citizens can avail ITR filing exemption if they meet the following criteria:
The individual must be a resident of India and at least 75 years old during the previous financial year. The primary income should be from a pension, with no other sources of income. However, they may also receive interest income from the same bank where their pension is deposited.
The pension and interest income must be received from a bank that is designated as a ‘specified bank’ by the government. The senior citizen must submit a declaration to the specified bank. This declaration must include certain prescribed details and be verified as required.
Once these conditions are fulfilled, the designated bank is responsible for deducting Tax Deducted at Source ( TDS ) for senior citizens over 75, taking into account deductions under Chapter VI-A and rebates under Section 87A. Consequently, these individuals are not required to file an income tax return.
The Government of India has not introduced any new provisions that universally exempt senior citizens above 75 years from paying income tax as part of the 75th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Only the existing exemptions under Section 194P continue to apply, ensuring that eligible senior citizens benefit from simplified tax procedures without any additional mandates or broad tax reliefs.
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Given the widespread dissemination of the false claim, individuals rely on official sources for accurate tax-related information. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs ( MCA ) and the Income Tax Department regularly update guidelines and policies, which can be accessed through their official websites and verified social media accounts.
While the intention behind the circulating message may be to honor senior citizens, it is important to base decisions on verified information.
By dispelling myths and providing clear information, we can ensure that our elderly population receives the support and respect they deserve without unnecessary confusion or misinformation.
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