by Jobuza Team | Dec 11, 2025 | BLOG, Trending News
Taxpayers, especially those in higher income brackets, are always searching for legitimate ways to reduce their tax burden. Beyond the usual investments in tax-saving instruments, many people now consider another approach: transferring money to family members so the investment income gets taxed at a lower slab.
This often involves giving money to a spouse, supporting parents, or transferring funds to an adult child with little or no income. At first glance, it appears to be an easy and legal way to save tax. But experts caution that while gifting money within the family is allowed, using it strictly as a tax-saving strategy can be complicated and may attract scrutiny if done incorrectly.
Is Gifting Money a Valid Tax-Saving Tool?
Dr Suresh Surana, Founder of RSM India, makes it clear that transferring money solely to reduce tax is usually ineffective. According to him, “Transferring money to family members with the sole intent of reducing one’s own income-tax liability is generally not a permissible tax-planning mechanism under Indian tax law.”
He explains that clubbing provisions often remove the benefit. If you transfer money without adequate consideration, any income generated from that amount can still be taxed in your hands, not in the hands of the person who receives it.
Abhishek Kumar, Sebi-registered investment adviser and Founder of Sahaj Money, agrees. He notes that the strategy works only in specific cases. “This strategy reduces tax burden only if the person receiving the money invests that money in lower tax brackets or tax-exempt instruments. Otherwise, clubbing provisions may apply, making the approach effective only when properly structured.”
Who Qualifies as a Relative Under Tax Law?
Dr Surana clarifies that there is no upper limit on how much money you can gift a relative, as long as the transaction is genuine and not part of an artificial arrangement.
Relatives under Indian tax laws include:
Gifts to non-relatives above Rs 50,000 in a year become taxable.
Abhishek adds that this Rs 50,000 limit applies strictly to non-relatives. Once the amount crosses that threshold, the entire gift becomes taxable in the hands of the receiver.
When Transfers Can Actually Save Tax
Abhishek gives a simple example to show where tax savings are possible.
If someone earning Rs 50 lakh annually gifts Rs 20 lakh to his adult son who has no income, and the son invests it in a fixed deposit earning 6 percent, the interest earned (Rs 1.2 lakh) can fall within the basic exemption limit. In such a case, the son pays no tax.
Had the father invested the same amount, he would have been taxed at 30 percent. This method works because the recipient is an adult and clubbing rules do not apply.
Who Pays the Tax on Investment Returns?
Abhishek explains that an adult child receiving money is responsible for paying tax on the investment income, based on their own tax slab. But the rules differ for minors. If the recipient is a minor, the income is clubbed with the parent’s income unless the gift comes from a grandparent or eligible relative.
Clubbing rules also affect married couples. If a spouse invests gifted money and earns returns, the income may still be taxed in the hands of the spouse who made the gift.
He warns that problems arise when people use money transfers to hide income or convert unaccounted money into legitimate funds. Such practices immediately trigger scrutiny from the tax department, especially for large cash transfers.
Essential Documents You Must Keep
Dr Surana emphasises the need for clear documentation. He advises maintaining proof of the relationship, a written gift deed, bank transfer receipts, PAN details, and statements showing how the money was used. For cash gifts, supporting documents showing the source of funds are crucial to avoid issues under Sections 68–69D.
Abhishek echoes the same advice. He recommends avoiding cash gifts and using only bank transfers for a clean audit trail. For property gifts, he suggests a properly registered gift deed with stamp duty and witnesses.
Final Verdict: Safe but Needs Caution
Both experts agree on one point: transferring money to family is completely legal in India. But using it as a tax-saving tool requires clarity, documentation, and awareness of clubbing rules. Without proper structure, what seems like a simple tax hack can lead to confusion and even tax notices.
by Jobuza Team | Dec 10, 2025 | BLOG, Trending News
Many taxpayers this year are noticing that their Income Tax Return (ITR) refunds are taking longer than usual. This delay is creating confusion and leaving people unsure about when their refund will actually arrive. The good news is that you can easily check your refund status online within a few minutes. This helps you avoid repeated follow-ups and unnecessary stress.
An income tax refund is issued when you have paid more tax than your actual tax liability for the year. This usually happens when the total TDS, advance tax or self-assessment tax paid by you turns out to be higher than the final tax amount after deductions and exemptions. In such cases, the Income Tax Department returns the extra amount directly to your registered bank account.
How to Track Your ITR Refund Online
You can check your refund status using the income tax e-filing portal or the TIN-NSDL website.
Checking Refund Status on the e-Filing Portal (Using PAN)
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Visit the official e-filing website.
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Log in using your PAN and password.
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On the home page, go to: e-File → Income Tax Returns → View Filed Returns.
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You will see a list of all filed returns along with the refund status for each year.
Checking Refund Status on the TIN-NSDL Portal
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Visit the TIN-NSDL refund status page.
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Enter your PAN and the relevant Assessment Year.
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The refund status will be displayed on the screen.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Refund?
The refund process begins only after your ITR is successfully e-verified. In most cases, refunds are credited within four to five weeks of filing. If your refund is delayed beyond this period, you should check for common mistakes or review any communication from the Income Tax Department.
Reasons Why Your Refund May Be Delayed
Refund delays usually happen due to small but important issues such as:
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Bank account not pre-validated
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Mismatch between bank account name and PAN
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Incorrect or inactive IFSC code
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Closed or inactive bank account
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PAN not linked with Aadhaar
Understanding Different ITR Statuses
Here are the common statuses displayed on the e-filing portal:
Submitted and pending for e-verification:
Your ITR is filed but not verified yet.
Successfully e-verified:
The return is verified but not processed.
Processed:
Your return has been completed successfully.
Defective:
There is an error in your ITR, and you will receive a notice under Section 139(9) to correct it.
Case transferred to Assessing Officer:
Your case has been moved from CPC to the jurisdictional Assessing Officer for further review.
by Jobuza Team | Dec 9, 2025 | BLOG, Trending News
In today’s digital world, Google has become our first choice for every question. Whether it is a small doubt or a complicated question, we quickly type it into the search bar and expect instant answers. But recent reports have warned that not all searches are innocent. Some online searches can be dangerous, especially for Indian users, and can even invite legal action.
A public notice published in major national newspapers recently highlighted that certain search terms are treated as threats to national security. If you are someone who searches out of curiosity, it is important to understand which Google searches can put you in trouble.
Types of Google Searches You Must Avoid
Here are the categories of searches that can lead to serious legal consequences according to recent reports.
1. Searches related to making weapons or explosives
Queries like “how to make a bomb” or similar instructions are monitored closely by national security agencies. Even searching for weapon-making guides can be treated as an attempt to gain illegal knowledge. Such searches raise red flags and can lead to investigation.
2. Child pornography or sexually exploitative content involving minors
This is one of the most serious offenses worldwide. Searching, viewing, or attempting to access child pornography is illegal in almost every country. Even accidental clicks or curiosity-driven searches can result in inquiry under child protection laws.
3. Hacking tools, cybercrime tutorials, or illegal software
Searching for ways to hack accounts, break into systems, or download tools used for cybercrime is treated as preparation for criminal activity. In India, such searches fall under cybercrime laws and can lead to legal action.
4. Pirated movies, illegal downloads, and free streaming sites
Queries like “free movie download” or searches for pirated streaming websites violate copyright laws. Even if you do not download anything, accessing or attempting to access pirated content can bring legal consequences under intellectual property law.
Reports also mention searches related to illegal drugs, dark web access, and instructions for committing any criminal acts. With advanced monitoring systems, agencies can track search patterns, IP addresses, and online activity. This makes it easier for authorities to identify suspicious behavior.
Why Some Searches Can Get You in Trouble
Search engines provide unlimited access to information, and that is both helpful and risky. You can learn about history, science, culture, skills, or hobbies instantly. But the same search system can also record your activity.
With modern artificial intelligence, digital surveillance, and cyber monitoring tools used by governments, almost all online activity can be reviewed. This includes your search history, browsing patterns, and social media behavior.
If a search appears suspicious or relates to harmful or illegal activities, authorities may investigate, even if you did not intend to commit a crime. In India, strict cybercrime, anti-terror, copyright, and child protection laws make such searches highly risky.
How to Google Safely
The rule is simple: Think before you type.
Do not search for anything that involves weapons, harm, illegal acts, or abusive content. Avoid clicking on or viewing:
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Sexual content involving minors
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Hacking tools, cybercrime software, or websites that promote illegal activity
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Pirated movie sites, illegal downloads, or file-sharing platforms
Use the internet responsibly. For learning or entertainment, rely on trusted educational websites, legal streaming platforms, verified sources, and reliable forums.
Every country has different laws, and what seems harmless in one place may be criminal in another. With increasing cyber monitoring and strict digital laws in 2025, even a curiosity-driven Google search can bring serious consequences.
The internet offers knowledge, convenience, and limitless information. But it also demands responsibility. A single careless search can turn into legal trouble. Use the internet wisely, search safely, and always choose ethical and legal online behavior. A moment of curiosity is never worth risking your freedom.
by Jobuza Team | Dec 8, 2025 | Trending News
Indian Railways is preparing to introduce a major change in the Tatkal ticket system, and this new rule will directly impact passengers. Many people are curious to know what this rule is and how it will change the booking process.
For years, getting a Tatkal ticket from the counter was considered easier compared to online booking. But soon, this will no longer be the case. Indian Railways is bringing in an OTP-based system for all Tatkal counter tickets, making the process more secure and transparent.
The biggest reason behind this change is misuse. Railways received several complaints about passengers using fake mobile numbers, taking help from middlemen, and booking tickets unfairly. To stop these practices, the Railways has decided to make OTP verification mandatory. With this system, only genuine passengers will be able to secure Tatkal tickets.
The Railways had already tested Aadhaar-based and OTP-based verification for online bookings earlier. In July 2025, Aadhaar verification for online Tatkal tickets was introduced. Later, in October 2025, OTP verification was added for general online reservations. Passengers quickly adjusted, and the new process helped make online booking more transparent and secure.
From November 17, 2025, Railways also began a pilot project for OTP verification on counter Tatkal tickets. This started with a few selected trains and was later expanded to 52 trains. Under this system, passengers write their mobile number on the reservation form at the counter. An OTP is sent to that number, and the ticket is issued only when the passenger shares the correct OTP with the booking clerk. If the OTP does not match, the ticket is not generated.
This rule is expected to roll out across all trains very soon. The main aim of this system is to keep Tatkal ticketing fair, safe, and free from misuse. With OTP verification, the role of middlemen will reduce, and the use of fake numbers or fake identities will come to an end. Most importantly, it will ensure that tickets go to real passengers who genuinely need them.
This new rule marks a strong step by the Railways toward secure and transparent ticketing, giving passengers a more reliable and trustworthy booking experience.
by Jobuza Team | Dec 4, 2025 | BLOG, Trending News
December has turned into a critical month for taxpayers, bank customers, and government pensioners. Several mandatory financial tasks must be completed within this month to avoid penalties, blocked transactions, or even suspended pension benefits. From income tax filings to Aadhaar–PAN linking, multiple important deadlines are approaching fast. Delaying any of these could lead to unnecessary financial trouble.
ITR Filing Deadline for Audit Cases Extended
The Central Board of Direct Taxes has extended the income tax return filing deadline for taxpayers who are required to undergo a tax audit. Businesses and professionals can now file their returns for Assessment Year 2025–26 till December 10. This extension offers relief to those facing delays due to audits and documentation issues.
Deadline for Belated and Revised ITRs
Taxpayers who either missed filing their FY25 income tax return or want to correct errors in their already filed return must submit their belated or revised return by December 31. If this deadline is missed, the following penalties may apply:
A late fee of up to Rs 5,000. If total income is below Rs 5 lakh, the late fee is limited to Rs 1,000.
Interest will continue to be charged on unpaid tax until the return is filed.
After December 31, taxpayers will only be able to use the ITR-U or Updated Return option. This facility allows corrections for up to two years but comes with an extra tax burden of 25 percent to 50 percent of the total tax and interest payable.
Aadhaar–PAN Linking Deadline
Individuals who received their Aadhaar card on or before October 1, 2024, must link it with their PAN by December 31, 2025. If PAN is not linked with Aadhaar, it will become inoperative. This can directly affect income tax filing, major financial transactions, investments, and routine banking services. Keeping PAN active is necessary for uninterrupted financial access.
Important Compliance Changes That Ended in November
Some key financial deadlines were already completed in November, and missing them may impact certain users:
The State Bank of India permanently discontinued its mCASH facility on November 30. Customers must now use UPI, IMPS, NEFT, or RTGS for fund transfers.
Government pensioners were required to submit their annual life certificate by November 30. Failure to do so may result in temporary suspension of pension payments until verification is completed.
Central government employees who wanted to shift from the National Pension System to the Unified Pension Scheme had to exercise their option by November 30. Those who switched can return to NPS later, but only once.
Why December Is Financially Important
December is the final low-cost compliance window before stricter penalties and higher charges come into effect. Completing these tasks on time ensures smooth financial operations, including tax filing, pension credits, banking services, and investment activities. Timely action now can help avoid legal issues, financial losses, and last-minute stress.
by Jobuza Team | Dec 2, 2025 | BLOG, Trending News
Missing due dates for mobile, OTT, electricity, or insurance bills can lead to late fees, service disruption, and unnecessary stress. This is where the Autopay or E-Mandate feature becomes highly useful. With Autopay, your bills are deducted automatically on the due date without requiring any manual action.
However, this automatic payment facility works strictly under the guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). These rules ensure both convenience and security for users. Let’s understand how Autopay works, its benefits, and the most important rules every user should know.
What Is Autopay and How Does It Work?
Autopay is a system that allows your bank to automatically deduct recurring payments from your account on a fixed schedule. You can activate it through your bank’s website, mobile app, or directly on a merchant platform such as OTT services, electricity boards, or insurance portals.
Autopay is commonly used for:
Once enabled, the payment is deducted automatically every month without the need for manual approval.
Types of Autopay Mandates
RBI allows two types of Autopay mandates:
Fixed Mandate:
The amount remains the same every billing cycle, such as a fixed OTT subscription fee.
Variable Mandate:
The amount changes every month, as seen in electricity, water, or gas bills.
After successful registration, Autopay usually becomes active within seven working days. If your bill is due during this period, you must make the payment manually for that cycle.
Charges and Balance Requirements
If Autopay is linked to your debit card or bank account, you must ensure sufficient balance is available on the due date. If the payment fails due to low balance, the bank may charge a penalty. This charge is usually around 2 percent of the transaction amount or a minimum of ₹500, whichever is higher.
RBI’s Rules for Autopay Transactions
The current Autopay framework introduced by RBI from October 1, 2021, focuses strongly on customer security and fraud prevention. According to these rules:
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For transactions up to ₹15,000, no OTP is required.
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For transactions above ₹15,000, OTP confirmation is mandatory.
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For insurance premiums and mutual fund investments, the transaction limit goes up to ₹1 lakh.
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For credit card bill payments, Standing Instructions apply only up to ₹1 lakh. Any amount above this requires OTP approval every time.
When Is Additional Factor Authentication Required?
Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) is required in these situations:
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While setting up a new recurring transaction above ₹15,000.
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Every time a deduction exceeds ₹15,000.
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No transaction can be completed without the customer’s approval.
Banks also send a pre-transaction alert at least 24 hours before every Autopay deduction. This alert includes an option to cancel or pause the payment if required, giving full control to the customer.
Information Required for E-Mandate Registration
To activate Autopay, users generally need to provide:
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Consumer ID or account number
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Maximum payment limit (for variable bills)
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Mobile number and email ID for alerts
Only RBI-approved merchants and payment platforms are allowed to offer E-Mandate services.
What Happens If Your Card Is Lost or Blocked?
If your debit or credit card is lost, stolen, or blocked, all linked Autopay mandates stop automatically. You will need to delete the old mandate and register again using your new card.
In such cases, the bank is not responsible for delayed or missed payments. It remains the customer’s responsibility to ensure bills are paid on time.
Key Takeaways
Autopay is a powerful tool that helps manage regular expenses without missing deadlines.
Transactions up to ₹15,000 do not need OTP, while higher amounts require verification.
Insurance and mutual fund transactions are allowed up to ₹1 lakh under Autopay.
Pre-transaction alerts ensure transparency and customer control.
Lost or blocked cards automatically deactivate linked mandates.
Final Word
RBI’s Autopay rules are designed to create a perfect balance between ease of use and financial security. While Autopay saves users from the stress of forgotten due dates, it also ensures that every transaction is safe, authorized, and transparent. If you manage multiple subscriptions or monthly bills, Autopay can be a smart digital solution when used responsibly and within RBI’s approved limits.
