One wrong form selection can lead to rejection notices and filing headaches. The ITR 1 vs ITR 2 decision trips up many taxpayers, especially salaried individuals who venture into stock markets or own multiple properties. While ITR-1 handles simple income profiles, ITR-2 accommodates more complex financial situations.
This comprehensive guide clarifies who should file ITR 2 and when ITR-1 suffices. You'll understand capital gains ITR 2 requirements and learn about ITR for salary and shares income combinations. Whether you sold mutual funds this year or inherited property abroad, this article helps you pick the right form.
ITR 1 vs ITR 2: Key Differences at a Glance
Understanding the core ITR 1 vs ITR 2 differences starts with knowing their scope. The Income Tax Act defines specific applicability rules for each form.
| Parameter | ITR-1 (Sahaj) | ITR-2 |
| Taxpayer Type | Resident individuals only | Individuals and HUFs (including NRI) |
| Income Limit | Up to Rs. 50 lakhs | No limit |
| Capital Gains | Not allowed | Allowed (all types) |
| House Properties | One property only | Multiple properties allowed |
| Foreign Income/Assets | Not allowed | Allowed (Schedule FA) |
| Director in Company | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Unlisted Equity Shares | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Business Income | Not allowed | Not allowed (use ITR-3) |
| Agricultural Income | Up to Rs. 5,000 only | Any amount |
| Schedule AL (Assets) | Not applicable | Required if income > Rs. 50L |
Who Should File ITR 2: Complete Eligibility Guide
Determining who should file ITR 2 requires checking specific conditions. Check CBDT guidelines for latest applicability.
| Condition | Example |
| Any capital gains income | Sold shares, mutual funds, property, gold |
| Total income exceeds Rs. 50 lakhs | High salary earners, Schedule AL required |
| More than one house property | Own flat + ancestral house |
| Foreign income or assets | NRI bank account, foreign investments |
| Director in a company | Director in private limited company |
| Holding unlisted equity shares | ESOPs in unlisted company, startup shares |
| Agricultural income above Rs. 5,000 | Farm income from agricultural land |
| NRI or RNOR status | Working abroad, returning NRI |
Capital Gains ITR 2: Reporting Investment Income
Capital gains ITR 2 reporting is the most common reason for switching from ITR-1. Any profit from selling investments requires ITR-2.
| Asset Type | STCG Period | LTCG Period | LTCG Tax Rate |
| Listed Equity Shares | Up to 12 months | Over 12 months | 12.5% above Rs. 1.25L |
| Equity Mutual Funds | Up to 12 months | Over 12 months | 12.5% above Rs. 1.25L |
| Debt Mutual Funds | Any period | N/A (taxed as STCG) | Slab rates |
| Real Estate Property | Up to 24 months | Over 24 months | 12.5% (no indexation) |
| Gold/Jewellery | Up to 24 months | Over 24 months | 12.5% |
ITR-2 Capital Gains Schedules:
Schedule CG: Report all capital gains with cost, sale value, exemptions
Schedule 112A: Scrip-wise details of listed equity and equity MF LTCG
Schedule 115AD: For NRI investments, FII taxation
ITR for Salary and Shares: Common Scenarios
Choosing correct ITR for salary and shares income requires understanding your specific situation.
Scenario 1: Software engineer with Rs. 12 lakhs salary plus Rs. 50,000 LTCG from ELSS.
Answer: ITR-2. Any capital gains disqualify ITR-1, even if below exemption.
Scenario 2: Bank manager earning Rs. 15 lakhs with only FD and savings interest.
Answer: ITR-1. No capital gains, single property, under Rs. 50 lakhs.
Scenario 3: HR professional with salary, two flats (one self-occupied, one rented).
Answer: ITR-2. Multiple house properties require ITR-2.
Scenario 4: NRI with Indian salary income and NRE account interest.
Answer: ITR-2. NRI status mandates ITR-2 minimum.
For professional assistance with form selection, consider Income Tax Return Filing services or expert CA-Assisted ITR support.
Conclusion: Match Form to Your Income Profile
The ITR 1 vs ITR 2 choice depends on your complete income profile. Understanding who should file ITR 2 helps avoid filing errors and processing delays.
Report all capital gains ITR 2 accurately to claim exemptions and carry forward losses. The right ITR for salary and shares income ensures proper taxation. When in doubt, ITR-2 accommodates more situations. One extra schedule is better than a defective notice. File accurately, file on time.
