Overview of TDS on Property Transactions
In India, whenever a property is bought or sold, Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) must be deducted by the buyer before making the payment to the seller. This deducted TDS amount must then be deposited with the Income Tax Department by the buyer. This rule equally applies to transactions involving Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
TDS Rate for Resident and Non-Resident Sellers
- Resident Indian Sellers: When a resident Indian sells a property, the buyer is required to deduct TDS at 1% of the sale price.
- NRI Sellers: The TDS rate for NRIs selling property is generally higher and depends on the amount received from the sale. The rate may vary based on factors like the total sale price and the seller’s income from Indian sources.
What is TDS on Sale of Property by NRI?
TDS on the sale of property by an NRI in India is a tax collection mechanism enforced by Indian tax authorities at the time of property transfer. The buyer is responsible for deducting TDS from the sale proceeds and depositing it with the Income Tax Department within the prescribed time. For long-term capital gains (property held for over two years), TDS is deducted at 20%, plus cess. For short-term gains (property held for less than two years), the TDS rate is 30%.
Threshold for TDS Deduction Under Section 195
Section 195 of the Income Tax Act specifies that there is no minimum limit for deducting TDS. However, TDS must be deducted only if the payment made to an NRI is taxable in India. If the payment is exempt from tax, no TDS is required.
Consequences of Not Deducting TDS
Failing to deduct the appropriate TDS can lead to severe legal repercussions, including penalties equal to the undeducted TDS amount and accrued interest. Additionally, it can hinder the seller’s ability to repatriate sale proceeds abroad and may result in prosecution for misrepresenting tax residency status.
