Updated Format of Form 16 (TDS Certificate for Salaried Taxpayer will make the ITR Filing Easy 

Form 16 is a document given to employees by their employer, which serves as proof that the employer has deposited TDS to the Income Tax Department. The Income Tax Department has announced some updates in the format of Form 16. The new format makes the details about taxes, deductions, and exemptions clearer. If you find tax filing confusing, this updated form can help make it simpler. If you are a salaried individual, you should know about these changes.

More Details In Form 16

The updated Form 16 contains more details than the earlier one, which only had basic information. The new version now shows which allowances are exempt from tax, how much deduction was made, and which parts of your salary were taxed. This will clear the confusion of taxpayers while filing the ITR. These changes have come into effect from February 20, 2025. This will be applicable on the tax returns for the financial year 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)

Additionally, changes have also been made in the Form 24Q. The reporting of TDS and TCS has become easier for the companies.

Agniveer Fund Now a Part of Your Salary

The contributions made towards the Agniveer Scheme will now be counted in your salary. However, the tax exemption on this amount will still be given under Section 80CCH.

Rent-Free Living from Employer Now Taxable

Some facilities will now be subject to taxation. If your company gives you a house to live in for free (rent-free accommodation), it will now be treated as a perk (perquisite) and may be taxed.

These changes are made to ensure that taxpayers receive correct and complete details so that they do not make any mistakes in their ITR submission. This will avoid getting a tax notice from the Income Tax Department.