Have you ever wished taxes could just do themselves? You’re not alone. Income tax can be confusing, especially with changing rules every year. But here’s some good news for Financial Year 2025-26: Rebate under Section 87a might just be your saviour — and when combined with an automatic Excel-based tax preparation software, tax season becomes a breeze. Whether you’re a government or non-government employee, this guide will walk you through it in plain English.
Table of Contents
ToggleTable of Contents
Sr# | Headings |
1 | Eligibility Criteria for Section 87a in F.Y. 2025-26 |
2 | Eligibility Criteria for Section 87A in F.Y. 2025-26 |
3 | Maximum Rebate Limit for 2025-26 |
4 | Old vs. New Tax Regime: Which One Applies? |
5 | Understanding Form 10E and Why It Matters |
6 | How the Excel-Based Tax Software Works |
7 | Benefits of Using Automatic Tax Software |
8 | Special Features for Govt Employees |
9 | Useful Functions for Non-Govt Employees |
10 | Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them |
11 | Security of Your Financial Data |
12 | Step-by-Step Guide to File Taxes Using Excel Tool |
13 | Where to Download the Excel-Based Tool |
14 | Important Deadlines for F.Y. 2025-26 |
15 | Conclusion and Final Thoughts |
1. What is Rebate U/s 87a?
A rebate under Section 87a is like a discount coupon on your tax bill. If you meet certain conditions, the government allows you to reduce your total tax liability. For salaried individuals, this small provision can lead to big savings.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Section 87a in F.Y. 2025-26
To get this rebate, you must:
- Be an individual taxpayer (not HUF or firm).
- Be a resident Indian.
- Have a total taxable income below the threshold limit.
For F.Y. 2025-26, this limit is ₹7,00,000 under the new tax regime. That means if your income doesn’t exceed ₹7 lakh, you don’t owe any income tax, thanks to this rebate.
3. Maximum Rebate Limit for 2025-26
Under Section 87A, the rebate amount has been set at ₹25,000 for those opting into the new tax regime. This essentially means zero tax liability for those earning ₹7 lakh or less.
4. Old vs. New Tax Regime: Which One Applies?
Here’s where many people get confused. The rebate under 87a applies to both tax regimes, but the limits and tax slabs are different:
- Old Regime: You can still claim deductions like 80c, 80d, HRA, etc.
- New Regime: No deductions allowed, but lower tax rates and the ₹7 lakh rebate.
So, ask yourself: Do I want simplicity or deductions?
5. Understanding Form 10e and Why It Matters
Form 10E helps you claim relief under Section 89(1) — basically for arrears or back pay. Filing Form 10e is mandatory if you’re claiming such relief. And guess what? The automatic Excel software we’ll talk about includes this form!
6. How the Excel-Based Tax Software Works
Imagine having a digital tax assistant. That’s exactly what this tool is:
- Auto-calculates tax based on your income and regime choice.
- Includes Form 10e, salary structure, rebate calculator, and more.
- Designed specifically for F.Y. 2025-26.
You enter your data, and it does the rest—faster than you can make a cup of tea.
7. Benefits of Using Automatic Tax Software
Why go manual when Excel can do the heavy lifting?
- Error-free calculations
- Faster tax filing
- Helps avoid penalties
- Customizable for different types of employment
It’s like using GPS instead of reading a paper map!
8. Special Features for Govt Employees
Government employees often have complex pay structures. This Excel tool includes:
- DA, TA, HRA, and other allowances
- Special forms aligned with central and state govt norms
- Auto-fill for Form 16 and Form 10E
9. Useful Functions for Non-Government Employees
Private sector folks aren’t left out. The software supports:
- Bonuses, incentives, variable pay
- Employer-provided benefits
- Salary breakup compatible with IT returns
10. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistakes can cost money. Here are a few to dodge:
- Forgetting to file Form 10e after claiming arrear relief
- Choosing the wrong tax regime
- Not updating the latest deductions and exemptions
The tool warns you if something’s off, like a digital watchdog.
11. Security of Your Financial Data
Worried about privacy? The Excel tool is:
- Offline (no internet access needed)
- Password-protected
- Built with macros that are safe and virus-free
Your data stays with you, just like a diary under lock and key.
12. Step-by-Step Guide to File Taxes Using Excel Tool
- Download the tool from the link below
- Enter personal details
- Input salary and deductions
- Choose a tax regime
- Check 87a rebate status
- Generate Form 10e if required
- Review and print the computation
That’s it—you’re done!
13. Where to Download the Excel-Based Tool
Download this Excel Tool from the link below
14. Important Deadlines for F.Y. 2025-26
Mark your calendar:
- Form 10e: Before filing a return, if claiming relief
- ITR Filing: Usually by 31st July 2026
- Form 16 from the employer: By 15th June 2026
Don’t wait till the last moment. Beat the deadline like a pro.
15. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Tax season doesn’t have to feel like solving a Rubik’s cube. With the Section 87a rebate, many of you may end up paying zero tax. Pair that with the Excel-based automatic tax software, and suddenly, taxes don’t look so scary. Government or private—this tool makes your financial life easier, safer, and smarter.
FAQs
1. Who can claim the rebate under Section 87a for F.Y. 2025-26?
Any resident individual with total income up to ₹7,00,000 under the new tax regime is eligible.
2. Is Form 10e mandatory for claiming arrear relief?
Yes, if you’re claiming relief under Section 89(1), you must file Form 10e before filing your return.
3. Can I use the Excel tool if I’m self-employed?
It’s primarily built for salaried employees, but with tweaks, it can suit freelancers too.
4. Where can I get the Excel-based automatic tax software?
You can download the Excel Utility from the link below.
5. Do I still need a CA if I use the software?
Not necessarily. The tool is user-friendly. But if your case is complex, a CA’s help is recommended.