Earned interest from PPF? Received dividends from an Indian company? Have agricultural income? Even though these incomes are tax-free, you must still report them as exempt income ITR. Many taxpayers mistakenly ignore this disclosure, leading to notices and unnecessary scrutiny from the Income Tax Department.
Understanding Exempt Income Under Section 10
Section 10 exempt income refers to income categories that are completely free from tax under the Income Tax Act. While you don't pay tax on these, the department requires disclosure for transparency.
Common Types of Exempt Income
| Section | Income Type | Where to Report |
| 10(1) | Agricultural Income | Schedule EI, Item A1 |
| 10(11) | PPF Interest | Schedule EI, Others |
| 10(13A) | HRA Exemption | Schedule S (Salary) |
| 10(14) | LTA, Transport Allowance | Schedule S (Salary) |
| 10(10D) | LIC Maturity Proceeds | Schedule EI, Others |
| 10(10) | Gratuity | Schedule S (within limits) |
Agricultural Income ITR: Special Reporting Rules
Agricultural income ITR reporting has unique requirements because it affects tax calculation even though it's exempt. Agricultural income is used for rate purposes when non-agricultural income exceeds the basic exemption limit.
PPF Interest Reporting
PPF interest reporting is often overlooked by taxpayers. Interest earned on PPF is exempt under Section 10(11) but should be disclosed in Schedule EI for complete transparency. Check your PPF passbook and enter under "Any other exempt income" in Schedule EI.
Step-by-Step: Filling Exempt Income in ITR
Follow these steps to correctly report exempt income on the Income Tax e-Filing Portal.
Step 1: Identify Your Exempt Income - Review bank statements, investment accounts, and Form 26AS/AIS.
Step 2: Navigate to Schedule EI in your ITR form
Step 3: Enter Agricultural Income if applicable in Item A1
Step 4: Report Other Exempt Income - Enter PPF interest, LIC maturity, and other Section 10 income
Step 5: Verify Against AIS/26AS - Cross-check entries with Annual Information Statement
For professional assistance, consider Income Tax Return Filing services from Patron Accounting.
Conclusion
Reporting exempt income ITR correctly is essential for tax transparency. Whether it's agricultural income that affects your tax rate or PPF interest for completeness, accurate disclosure prevents notices and demonstrates compliance.
