How to Calculate Taxable House Rent Income For Indian Income Tax compliance
If you earn rent from a house, flat, shop, or any other property in India, the Income Tax Act
classifies it
under Income from House Property. Understanding how this income is calculated helps you plan
better,
avoid surprises, and make the most of available deductions.
Let’s break it down in a simple, practical way.
Step 1: Determine the Gross Annual Value (GAV)
The
Gross Annual Value is essentially the reasonable expected rent from your property. For most
taxpayers,
this is simply:
-
Actual rent received or receivable for the year
However, if the municipal value or fair rent is higher, the tax rules may require using the higher
figure. This
is the basis on which rental income is computed.
Step 2: Subtract Municipal Taxes Paid
Municipal taxes (property tax)
actually paid during the year are fully deductible from GAV.
Net Annual Value (NAV) = GAV – Municipal Taxes Paid
Step 3: Apply Standard Deduction (30%)
The Income Tax Act allows a
flat 30% deduction on NAV for repairs and maintenance — regardless of
your
actual expenses. This is automatic and requires no bills or proof.
Step 4: Deduct Home Loan Interest (Section 24)
If you have a home loan on the rented property, the
entire interest amount is deductible under
Section
24(b). There is
no upper limit for let‑out properties.
Final Formula
Here’s the complete calculation in one place:
- Income = (Gross Annual Value – Municipal Taxes Paid)
- Deductions: 30% Standard Deduction + Interest on Home Loan (if any)
- Total House property income = Income - Deductions
The resulting figure is added to your total income and taxed as per your slab.
Quick Example
Suppose:
- Annual rent received: ₹3,60,000
- Municipal tax paid: ₹10,000
- Home loan interest: ₹1,20,000
Step-by-step
- GAV = ₹3,60,000
- NAV = ₹3,60,000 – ₹10,000 = ₹3,50,000
- Standard deduction = 30% of ₹3,50,000 = ₹1,05,000
- Taxable income = ₹3,50,000 – ₹1,05,000 – ₹1,20,000
- Final taxable rental income = ₹1,25,000