Choosing the wrong ITR form can lead to notices, rejections, or unnecessary complications. The ITR 1 vs ITR 4 decision confuses many taxpayers, especially those with income from both salary and small businesses. Both forms serve different taxpayer profiles, and understanding their scope prevents filing errors.
This comprehensive guide explains the difference between ITR 1 and 4 in detail. You'll learn about presumptive taxation ITR 4 and understand which ITR for small business owners is appropriate. Whether you're a salaried professional with freelance income or a shopkeeper, this article helps you select the correct form.
Difference Between ITR 1 and 4: Quick Comparison
Understanding the core difference between ITR 1 and 4 starts with knowing who each form is designed for. The Income Tax Act specifies clear applicability rules.
| Parameter | ITR-1 (Sahaj) | ITR-4 (Sugam) |
| Taxpayer Type | Resident individuals only | Individuals, HUFs, Firms (not LLP) |
| Income Limit | Up to Rs. 50 lakhs | Up to Rs. 50 lakhs |
| Business Income | Not allowed | Allowed (presumptive only) |
| Professional Income | Not allowed | Allowed under 44ADA |
| Salary Income | Allowed | Allowed |
| House Property | One property only | One property only |
| Capital Gains | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Books of Accounts | Not required | Not required (presumptive) |
| Audit Requirement | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Presumptive Taxation ITR 4: Understanding the Scheme
Presumptive taxation ITR 4 is the key differentiator from ITR-1. This scheme allows small businesses and professionals to declare profits at a presumed rate without maintaining detailed books. Check CBDT guidelines for current thresholds.
| Section | Applicable To | Turnover Limit | Presumed Profit |
| 44AD | Eligible businesses (retail, trading, manufacturing) | Rs. 2 crore (Rs. 3 crore if digital > 95%) | 8% (6% for digital) |
| 44ADA | Professionals (doctors, lawyers, CAs, architects, etc.) | Rs. 50 lakhs (Rs. 75 lakhs if digital > 95%) | 50% |
| 44AE | Goods carriage operators | Up to 10 vehicles | Rs. 7,500 per vehicle per month |
Benefits of Presumptive Taxation:
• No need to maintain detailed books of accounts
• No audit requirement regardless of profit
• Simplified compliance for small taxpayers
• Can declare higher profit if actual profit exceeds presumed rate
Which ITR for Small Business: Decision Guide
Determining which ITR for small business depends on your business structure and income level. Here's a practical decision framework.
Choose ITR-1 When:
- You have only salary, pension, or interest income
- No business or professional income exists
- You own maximum one house property
- Total income is under Rs. 50 lakhs
Choose ITR-4 When:
- You run a small business (shop, trading, services)
- You're a professional (freelancer, consultant, doctor)
- Turnover is within presumptive scheme limits
- You want to avoid maintaining detailed books
- You may also have salary or one house property income
Real-World Scenarios
Scenario 1: Rahul earns Rs. 8 lakhs salary and Rs. 40,000 FD interest.
Answer: ITR-1. No business income, simple sources.
Scenario 2: Priya is a freelance graphic designer earning Rs. 12 lakhs annually.
Answer: ITR-4 under 44ADA. Declare 50% (Rs. 6 lakhs) as profit.
Scenario 3: Amit has Rs. 6 lakhs salary plus Rs. 80 lakhs trading business.
Answer: ITR-4. Salary + business under 44AD presumptive scheme.
When Neither ITR-1 nor ITR-4 Works
In the ITR 1 vs ITR 4 comparison, some situations require different forms entirely. You'll need ITR-2 or ITR-3 in these cases.
| Situation | Correct Form |
| Capital gains from shares, MF, property | ITR-2 (no business) or ITR-3 (with business) |
| Business income above presumptive limits | ITR-3 (with full books of accounts) |
| Declaring profit below presumptive rate | ITR-3 (audit required, maintains books) |
| Multiple house properties | ITR-2 (no business) or ITR-3 (with business) |
| Director in company or unlisted shares | ITR-2 or ITR-3 |
| NRI or RNOR status | ITR-2 or ITR-3 (ITR-1/4 not available) |
For professional assistance with form selection and filing, consider Income Tax Return Filing services or expert CA-Assisted ITR support.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely, File Correctly
The ITR 1 vs ITR 4 decision becomes clear once you understand your income sources. The difference between ITR 1 and 4 primarily lies in business and professional income accommodation.
Leverage presumptive taxation ITR 4 benefits if you're a small business owner or professional. Know which ITR for small business applies to your situation. When in doubt, consult a CA. Correct form selection ensures smooth processing, faster refunds, and no unnecessary notices. Your tax compliance starts with this fundamental choice.
