Why tax isn't a flat percentage
Income tax is progressive: only the income within each slab is taxed at that slab's rate. The new regime offers lower rates but fewer deductions. The standard deduction (₹75,000 for salaried) and the Section 87A rebate keep tax nil up to ₹12 lakh taxable income, and a 4% cess applies on top.
Common questions
FY 2025-26: nil up to ₹4L, 5% to ₹8L, 10% to ₹12L, 15% to ₹16L, 20% to ₹20L, 25% to ₹24L and 30% above ₹24L, plus 4% cess.
A rebate of up to ₹60,000 that makes tax nil for taxable income up to ₹12 lakh under the new regime.
This uses the new regime, which is now the default. The old regime allows more deductions (80C, HRA, etc.) and can be better for some.