House Rent Allowance (HRA) exemption is one of the largest tax-saving opportunities for salaried individuals living in rented accommodation. When calculated correctly, HRA can save ₹50,000-₹2,00,000 in annual taxes, especially for those in metro cities with high rents.
HRA Exemption Calculation
The exempt HRA is the lowest of three amounts: actual HRA received from your employer, 50% of basic salary for metro cities (40% for non-metro), and actual rent paid minus 10% of basic salary. For example, if your basic salary is ₹8 lakh, HRA received is ₹4 lakh, and rent paid is ₹3.6 lakh in Mumbai: the three values are ₹4 lakh, ₹4 lakh (50% of ₹8 lakh), and ₹2.8 lakh (₹3.6 lakh – ₹80,000). The lowest is ₹2.8 lakh — this becomes your tax-exempt HRA.
Documents Required for HRA Claim
Rent receipts with revenue stamp for rent below ₹5,000/month, or rent agreement plus bank transfer proof for higher amounts. If annual rent exceeds ₹1 lakh, you must provide the landlord’s PAN card details. If the landlord does not have PAN, a declaration to that effect is required. Maintain bank statements showing rent transfers as proof — cash payments are harder to substantiate and may be questioned during assessment.
HRA When Paying Rent to Family Members
You can pay rent to your parents and claim HRA exemption, provided the arrangement is genuine. Your parent must declare the rental income in their ITR. If your parent is in a lower tax bracket or is a senior citizen with basic exemption, the family saves net tax through this arrangement. However, paying rent to your spouse is not allowed for HRA exemption. Ensure rent agreements and regular bank transfers exist as documentation.
HRA for Those Living in Their Own House
If you live in your own house, you cannot claim HRA exemption. However, if you own a house in one city but live in rented accommodation in another city for work, you can claim both HRA exemption and home loan interest deduction under Section 24(b) simultaneously. This is a legitimate and powerful dual benefit for those who have relocated for work while maintaining property in their hometown.
Section 80GG: HRA Alternative for Self-Employed
Self-employed individuals and salaried persons who do not receive HRA can claim rent deduction under Section 80GG. The maximum deduction is the least of ₹5,000 per month, 25% of total income, or actual rent minus 10% of total income. This provides some relief but is significantly lower than HRA benefits available to salaried individuals.
Is HRA available under the new tax regime?
No — HRA exemption is not available under the new tax regime. If your HRA exemption is substantial (especially in metro cities), this alone may make the old regime more beneficial for you. Calculate both scenarios before choosing.