Every year taxpayers pay more than they need to simply because they miss out on legitimate deductions. Here are seven worth checking before you file.
1. Section 80C (₹1.5 lakh)
PPF, ELSS, life insurance premiums, EPF, and children's tuition fees all count.
2. Section 80D — Health insurance
Premiums for yourself and your parents, plus preventive health check-ups.
3. HRA exemption
If you pay rent, you can claim a significant exemption even if HRA is part of your salary.
4. Home-loan interest (Section 24)
Up to ₹2 lakh on interest for a self-occupied property.
Rounding out the list are the NPS deduction under 80CCD(1B), education-loan interest under 80E, and donations under 80G. A quick review with a tax professional often pays for itself many times over.