How to Save Tax on Interest Earned from Fixed Deposits?

The interest earned on your FDs helps build wealth. It must be protected at all costs, and that includes saving tax on it

A fixed deposit (FD) is an asset class where you invest for a longer term and earn interest. Investors receive both the interest and the principal amount when the FD matures. Additionally, FDs up to ₹5 lakh are insured by the Deposit Insurance Guarantee Corporation (DIGCI) of India.

It makes FDs one of the safest investment instruments, especially for risk-averse investors. FDs have many other benefits as well, although returns earned through them are not tax-free. Here is everything you need to know about income tax on interest on fixed deposits.

When is interest on FD taxable?

The interest earned on an FD is taxable. It is added to your total income and taxed at the slab rates that apply to your entire income. Investors should declare it on their tax return under the category 'Income from Other Sources.'

Remember, though, that TDS is withdrawn when the FD interest rate is credited, not when the FD matures. Hence, if you have a three-year FD, the bank will deduct tax on the FD at the end of each year.

What is TDS?

When you receive money, the individual making the payment must deduct tax first. The gross amount must be subsequently included in your income when filing your income tax return.

In contrast, a TDS refund takes place when no tax is due. Salary, commission, rent, and bank interest payments are examples of such payments. The TDS charged at the point of filing the returns might then be adjusted by the taxpayer. If the taxable income exceeds the TDS, the taxpayer must pay the difference, and if the tax liability is less, you can request a TDS refund. It also makes income tax on FD interest chargeable.

How to turn your FD into a tax-saving asset?

Here are a few ways in which your FD can act as a tax-saving asset:

• You can file or use form 15G/15H if your total income for the year is less than ₹2.5 lakh. Because the interest on your FD is not taxable, the bank will not deduct TDS. You will not be obliged to pay any income tax on the FD interest.
• Instead of a bank, you can create your FD at a post office location. On post office fixed deposits, tax on FD is deducted, but not as much as in banks. The FD interest rate is lower at post offices, but you can save on taxes.
• You can deposit money in FDs under your spouse, parents, and kids’ name. The income tax on interest on fixed deposit income is calculated for each person on the slab they fall into. It may be possible to save or minimise taxes if you open fixed deposits at various branches and banks.

FD is the most common investment instrument used in India. It offers decent returns, and by using the above tricks, you can save tax as well. You can open an FD with banks via Mobile Banking and post offices, although the interest is more in banks such as IDFC FIRST Bank. IDFC FIRST offers one of the highest interest rates on FDs in the country, which helps build your wealth.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.