Received a Large Amount from Parents? Understand Your Tax Liability for FY 2024-25

Receiving financial support from parents is a common practice in India, but a large gift can trigger questions about tax obligations. If your parents transferred a substantial amount, say ₹10 lakh, to your account digitally, it’s essential to understand how the Income Tax Act treats such gifts and what you need to report for FY 2024-25.

Gifts from Parents Are Fully Tax-Exempt

Under Section 56(2)(x) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, gifts from specified relatives, including parents, are entirely exempt from tax regardless of the amount or mode of transfer. This means that whether the gift is in cash, cheque, or a digital transfer, the original sum remains non-taxable.

Chartered Accountant Dr. Suresh Surana explains, “Even if the gifted amount exceeds ₹50,000, like a digital transfer of ₹10 lakh from your father, it is not taxable. However, any income generated from this gift, such as interest from a fixed deposit, is taxable.”

Why Documentation Matters

While there is no legal obligation to create a gift deed for transfers between parents and children, maintaining proper documentation is highly recommended for transparency and record-keeping. Taxpayers should:

• Draft a simple gift deed detailing the amount, relationship, transfer date, and the irrevocable nature of the gift.
• Keep bank statements or transfer proofs clearly showing the transaction.
• Retain the gift deed for personal records to safeguard against potential tax inquiries.

Income from Gifted Money Is Taxable

Although the gift itself is exempt, any income derived from the gifted sum must be reported. This includes interest from fixed deposits, dividends, or capital gains from investments.

Example: If a parent gifts ₹25 lakh to their child in FY 2024-25, the principal is exempt. But if the child invests this money in stocks or a fixed deposit, the resulting interest or capital gains are taxable under regular income tax rules.

Transparency Through Reporting

For smooth tax compliance, it is advisable to report exempt gifts from parents under “Exempt Income” (Schedule EI) in your income tax return. This ensures transparency and helps avoid future scrutiny.

Key Takeaways for FY 2024-25 Tax Filing:

• No tax is payable on gifts from parents.
• A gift deed is recommended but not mandatory.
• Income earned from the gifted amount is taxable.
• Declare exempt gifts in your tax return for clarity.

By following these guidelines, taxpayers can manage large parental gifts efficiently while staying fully compliant with India’s tax laws.