As the financial year 2025-26 approaches, it’s essential to plan your taxes effectively to maximize savings and ensure compliance with the latest tax laws. Here are some smart ways to reduce your tax burden legally and efficiently.

1.   Optimize Deductions Under Section 80C

Section 80C allows a deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh from your taxable income. Some common investment options under this section include:

• Public Provident Fund (PPF)
• Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
• National Savings Certificate (NSC)
• Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
• Life Insurance Premiums
• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

2.   Avail Benefits Under Section 80D

Health insurance premiums paid for self, family, and parents qualify for deductions under Section 80D:

• Up to 25,000 for self and family (Rs. 50,000 if senior citizens are included)
• Additional 50,000 for health insurance of senior citizen parents

3.   Maximize House Rent Allowance (HRA) Exemption

If you live in a rented house and receive HRA as part of your salary, you can claim an exemption under Section 10(13A). The exemption is calculated based on actual rent paid, HRA received, and your salary.

4.   Claim Home Loan Tax Benefits

Under Section 24(b), you can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 2 lakh on home loan interest paid. Additionally, the principal repayment qualifies for deduction under Section 80C.

5.   Utilize the National Pension System (NPS) Deductions

Contributions to NPS qualify for additional deductions:

• Up to 50,000 under Section 80CCD(1B) (over and above 80C limit)

• Employer contributions up to 10% of salary under Section 80CCD(2) (for salaried individuals)

6.   Leverage Standard Deduction & Professional Tax

A standard deduction of Rs. 50,000 is available for salaried individuals and pensioners, reducing taxable income without requiring investments.

7.   Take Advantage of Section 80E for Education Loan

Interest paid on education loans qualifies for deduction under Section 80E for up to 8 years from the date of loan repayment commencement.

8.   Invest in Tax-Free Instruments

Consider investing in tax-free bonds, the interest from which is exempt from income tax. Additionally, long-term capital gains from certain investments like equity funds can be tax- efficient.

9.   Declare Investments & Expenses to Employer

To avoid higher TDS deductions, ensure you declare eligible investments and expenses to your employer at the beginning of the financial year.

10.   Opt for the Right Tax Regime

With the introduction of the new tax regime, taxpayers must assess which regime (old vs. new) suits them best, depending on their deductions and exemptions.