The Income Tax Rules after Budget 2026 bring big shifts in how we file. While the tax slabs remain the same, the timing for ITR has changed. Specifically, the Govt wants to make tax filing easier for the common man. Now, these new rules will kick in from April 1, 2026.
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Income Tax Rules After Budget 2026: What Stays the Same
First, the Finance Minister kept the core tax rates steady this year. This means your monthly take-home pay will not change due to new rates. Specifically, the New Tax Regime is still the default choice for all.
Later, you can still switch to the Old Regime to claim deductions. Therefore, your tax planning from last year still works for the 2026-27 period. Still, the way you fix errors in your form is now very different.
New ITR Filing and Revision Deadlines
Next, the deadline to fix a wrong ITR has been pushed back. You now have until March 31 of the next year to file a revised form. Previously, you had to finish this task by December 31.
Therefore, you get three extra months to correct any small typos or misses. In fact, a nominal fee will apply for these late revisions. Finally, original filing for non-audit cases now moves from July 31 to August 31.
| Return Type | Old Deadline | New Deadline (Budget 2026) |
| Original ITR-1/2 | July 31 | July 31 (No Change) |
| Non-Audit Business | July 31 | August 31 |
| Revised Return | December 31 | March 31 |
TCS and TDS: Major Relief for Families
Then, the Govt cut the tax on foreign trips and education. The TCS rate on overseas tour packages is now a flat 2%. Specifically, this replaces the old high rates of 5% and 20%.
Next, the same 2% rate applies to medical and study costs abroad. This move helps families manage their cash flow much better during the year. In fact, no TDS will be cut on motor accident claim interest now. Thus, victims of road mishaps will get their full due amount faster.
New Tax Regime: Slabs for FY 2026-27
Meanwhile, the New Tax Regime remains best for those earning up to ₹12 lakh. With a ₹75,000 standard deduction, salary up to ₹12.75 lakh is tax-free. Specifically, the slabs are set to help the middle class save more.
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₹0 – ₹4 Lakh: Nil
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₹4 – ₹8 Lakh: 5%
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₹8 – ₹12 Lakh: 10%
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₹12 – ₹16 Lakh: 15%
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Above ₹24 Lakh: 30%
Old Tax Regime: Slabs for FY 2026-27
Next, the Old Regime is still here for people with big home loans. You can claim up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C for PPF or LIC. Specifically, the slab for people under 60 years starts at ₹2.5 lakh.
Therefore, you must compute your tax under both paths to see the winner. In fact, senior citizens get a higher exemption of up to ₹3 lakh. Still, you must choose this regime manually at the time of filing. Thus, do not forget to tell your boss which one you want.
The Truth: Why the 1961 Act is Ending
Indeed, the biggest news is the birth of the Income Tax Act 2025. This new law replaces the old 1961 Act from April 1, 2026. In fact, it cuts the number of sections from 800 down to 536.
The Govt says this will end messy legal fights and save your time. Specifically, the language of the law is now simple for a layman to read. Therefore, you may not need a pro to explain basic tax rules. Finally, the act aims to make the whole process digital and fast.
What This Means for You
Now, you have more time to fix your tax errors than before. You should use the extra window to match your ITR with your AIS. Specifically, look out for the new tax forms coming out in April. Keep your receipts for foreign tours to claim the lower 2% TCS rate.
Next Steps
First, check your total tax-saving proof for the current year. Next, use an Income Tax Calculator to compare both regimes for your salary. Finally, set a reminder for the new July 31 filing date.
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