Ways to save tax
Plain-English, no jargon. Most of these only apply if you pick the old regime — check both before you decide.
Section 80C
Old regimeEPF, PPF, ELSS funds and life-insurance premiums all count. The classic ₹1.5 lakh deduction most people use.
Health insurance · 80D
Old regimePremiums for you, your family and your parents. A higher limit applies if your parents are senior citizens.
NPS · 80CCD(1B)
Old regimeNational Pension System gives an additional ₹50,000 deduction over and above your 80C limit.
HRA exemption
Old regimePart of your House Rent Allowance is tax-free if you actually pay rent. Metro cities get a higher limit.
Term insurance
Old regimePure life-cover premiums count towards 80C. Cheap, and genuinely worth having if anyone depends on you.
Employer NPS · 80CCD(2)
Both regimesIf your employer contributes to NPS on your behalf, it stays deductible even in the new regime.
Educational only — not tax advice. Limits and eligibility change and depend on your situation. Confirm with a qualified advisor. Rules: Budget 2026 retained FY 2025-26 slabs unchanged. Verified against Income Tax Dept (incometax.gov.in) & ClearTax, July 2026.