In property transactions involving a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), the buyer holds the responsibility of deducting the Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) from the sale proceeds and ensuring it is transferred to the NRI seller. This TDS deduction is a crucial step in complying with Indian tax laws.
The Buyer’s Responsibility in TDS Deduction
The buyer must deduct the applicable TDS amount from the payment made to the NRI seller. Once deducted, the buyer is required to submit the deduction and payment details using Form 27Q. This ensures that the TDS is correctly documented and reported to the Income Tax Department.
Obtaining a Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN)
To proceed with TDS deductions, the buyer must apply for and obtain a Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN) in their name. This is mandatory for buyers, especially in cases where the property is purchased jointly by two or more individuals, whether they are using personal funds or taking out a joint loan. Each individual involved in the purchase must obtain their TAN.
Depositing TDS and Filing Returns
After securing the TAN, the buyer must deduct the TDS during each payment transaction to the NRI seller. The deducted TDS amount should then be deposited with the Income Tax Department through an e-challan by the 7th day of the month following the payment.
To complete the process, the buyer must file the TDS return in the quarter following the deposit. Upon successful filing, the buyer can obtain Form 16A, which serves as proof of TDS deduction and should be provided to the NRI seller.
Ensuring Compliance and Transparency
By following these steps, both the buyer and the NRI seller can ensure compliance with Indian tax regulations, fostering a transparent and legally sound property transaction. This process helps safeguard the interests of all parties involved and maintains the integrity of the transaction.
