Slow growth in Tax filers but, India Sees Sharp Rise in Crore-Plus Earners

In India, the number of individuals earning more than Rs 1 crore a year has increased sharply. At the same time, the total number of people who file income tax returns has not grown much. This means that a larger share of the country’s reported income is now going to people at the top income level.

Data from the Income Tax e-filing portal shows that people declaring income above Rs 1 crore increased by about 22% in the financial year 2026. Experts say this rise is mainly because high-income households are earning more due to better salaries, higher bonuses, and improved profits in businesses.

Income tax return filers’ data

Following is the data of income tax return filers up-to December 31, 2025.

Even though the total number of people filing tax returns hasn’t increased much, the type of incomes being reported has clearly gone up. Fewer people are filing returns in the lowest income group (up to Rs 5 lakh), while many more people are now reporting higher incomes. Every income group above Rs 5 lakh has grown strongly, especially the richest groups. The four highest income categories, from Rs 50 lakh to more than Rs 10 crore, have all grown by over 20%, with the very top earners increasing the fastest.