It's common knowledge that buying health insurance helps you to save tax. Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act 1961, you can get a maximum tax benefit of Rs.15000 on health insurance premium paid. The exemption limits are as follows:
- An individual can avail an annual deduction of Rs.15000 from taxable income for health insurance premium paid for self and dependants. 'Dependents,' in this case, refers to spouse and children.
- In the case of senior citizens (aged 60 years and above), the annual deduction from taxable income goes up to Rs.20000.
But here's a tidbit that might help you save more tax than
you think:
- If you are paying the premium for your parents' health insurance, you can claim an additional tax benefit up to Rs.15000 under the provisions of Section 80D.
- If your parents are senior citizens (aged 60 years and above), the benefit goes up to Rs.20000.
However, there are a few conditions:
- You cannot claim tax benefit on health insurance premium paid for your in-laws.
- Proof of payment of premium has to be furnished, in order to avail the tax benefit.
- Except cash, any mode of payment is acceptable for claiming tax benefit.
- The health insurance premium must be paid from your taxable income of that year only if you want to claim a deduction. If you have paid the premium from your savings or from gifts of money received by you, then you will not be eligible to claim tax benefit under Section 80D.
*Tax benefits are subject to changes in tax laws.
