Understanding Income from Other Sources for Salaried Employees in India

For salaried employees in India, understanding "Income from Other Sources" is crucial for accurate tax reporting and financial planning. This guide explains what constitutes income from other sources, how it's taxed, and important considerations for tax filing.

What is Income from Other Sources?

Income from Other Sources (IFOS) is the residual category of income under the Income Tax Act, 1961, covering all taxable income that doesn't fall under the other four heads of income (Salary, House Property, Business/Profession, and Capital Gains). This category ensures that no taxable income escapes assessment.

Common Types of Income from Other Sources

Interest Income

• Savings Account Interest: Interest earned from savings bank accounts
• Fixed Deposit Interest: Interest from FDs with banks, post offices, or companies
• Recurring Deposit Interest: Interest earned from RD accounts
• Interest on Income Tax Refund: Interest received on delayed tax refunds

Example: Rahul, a software engineer, has:

• Savings account interest: ₹15,000
• Fixed deposit interest: ₹50,000
• Interest on tax refund: ₹2,000
• Total interest income: ₹67,000 (taxable under IFOS)

Dividends

Since April 1, 2020, all dividend income is taxable in the hands of shareholders at their applicable slab rates.

Example: Priya receives:

• Dividend from Indian companies: ₹75,000
• Dividend from mutual funds: ₹25,000
• Total dividend income: ₹1,00,000 (taxable under IFOS)

Gifts

Gifts received from non-relatives exceeding ₹50,000 in a financial year are taxable. However, gifts from specified relatives or received on certain occasions (marriage) are exempt.

Example: Amit receives:

• Cash gift from friend: ₹60,000
• Wedding gifts from relatives: ₹2,00,000
• Taxable amount: ₹60,000 (only non-relative gift as it exceeds ₹50,000)

Income from Sporting Events

• Prize money from tournaments and competitions
• Appearance fees for sports events
• Awards and incentives from sports organizations
• Cash rewards from state/central governments for sports achievements

Example: Deepika, a corporate employee who plays badminton:

• Won local tournament prize money: ₹75,000
• Received sports gear sponsorship: ₹40,000
• Cash award from state government: ₹1,00,000 (exempt under Section 10(17A))
• Taxable amount: ₹1,15,000 (tournament prize + sponsorship)

Other Common Sources

• Rental income from machinery, plant, or equipment
• Winning from lotteries, crossword puzzles, or games
• Income from subletting
• Family pension received by family members of deceased employees

Tax Deductions Available

Section 80TTA

• Deduction up to ₹10,000 on savings account interest
• Available for individuals and HUFs
• Not applicable to senior citizens (they can claim under 80TTB)

Section 80TTB (for Senior Citizens)

• Deduction up to ₹50,000 on interest from deposits
• Includes interest from savings accounts, FDs, and RDs

Example:

• Maya (35 years) has savings interest of ₹12,000
• Eligible deduction under 80TTA: ₹10,000
• Net taxable interest: ₹2,000

Tax Rates and TDS

Regular Income

• Taxed at applicable slab rates
• TDS on interest (if exceeding ₹40,000, ₹50,000 for senior citizens)
• TDS on dividend (if exceeding ₹5,000)

Special Rates

• Lottery/gambling winnings: 30% flat rate
• Horse race winnings: 30% flat rate

Record Keeping and Documentation

Maintain these documents for income from other sources:

• Interest certificates from banks
• Form 26AS showing TDS details
• Dividend payment advice
• Gift deed or documentation
• Bank statements showing interest credits

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Reporting Small Interest Amounts: Even small interest earnings must be reported
• Mixing Up Tax Treatment: Different types of interest have different tax treatments
• Ignoring TDS Already Deducted: Check Form 26AS for TDS credits
• Wrong Classification: Ensure income is reported under correct heads

Tips for Tax Planning

Interest Income Planning

• Consider tax-free bonds for higher tax brackets
• Distribute fixed deposits among family members
• Opt for growth option in mutual funds instead of dividend option

Gift Planning

• Plan gifts around occasions like marriage
• Understand the relationship criteria for tax-free gifts
• Keep proper documentation of gifts received

Documentation

• Maintain separate folders for different types of income
• Keep original documents safe
• Download and save Form 26AS regularly

Filing Returns

When filing your tax return:

• Aggregate all interest income
• Check Form 26AS for TDS details
• Claim eligible deductions
• Report income under correct schedule
• Maintain supporting documents

Important Deadlines

• Tax Filing: July 31 of the assessment year
• TDS Payment on Interest: 7th of next month
• TDS Returns: Quarterly as per prescribed schedule

Understanding and properly reporting Income from Other Sources is crucial for tax compliance. Regular monitoring of such income, maintaining proper documentation, and timely filing of returns will help avoid penalties and ensure smooth tax assessment. Consult a tax professional for complex cases or specific queries related to your situation.