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Section 16(iii) of the Income Tax Act of 1961.

Professional tax is deductible according to Section 16(iii) of the Income Tax Act of 1961. By this clause, an employee’s professional tax payment may be deducted from their gross salary when completing their income tax reports.

Professional Tax (PT) is a state-level tax levied on individuals earning income through their profession, trade, or employment. It is imposed by state governments in India, and the rates and rules for professional tax vary from state to state. The tax is typically deducted by the employer from the salary of the employee and is paid to the respective state government. In the case of self-employed individuals or business owners, the tax is paid directly to the state.

 

Professional tax applies to individuals earning a certain threshold income, and its applicability depends on the state laws. In most cases, employed individuals and self-employed professionals (such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc.) are liable to pay professional tax. The amount of tax depends on the income slab set by the state government. For employed individuals, the employer deducts the tax from the salary and deposits it with the government. Self-employed professionals are required to pay the tax directly to the government.

 

Legal Compliance

Filing professional tax returns ensures that both employers and employees comply with state tax laws. This is a legal requirement, and timely filing avoids penalties, fines, or legal consequences. Compliance demonstrates that the business or individual is adhering to the local tax regulations, which helps maintain good standing with the authorities.

Avoidance of Penalties and Interest

One of the key advantages of timely filing and payment of professional tax is the avoidance of penalties or interest charges that can accrue when taxes are filed late or not paid. States usually levy penalties or charge interest on the outstanding amount, which can significantly increase the total tax liability.

Ease of Business Operations

For businesses, especially larger ones with numerous employees, filing professional tax returns and maintaining compliance with state tax laws is crucial for smooth operations. A well-managed tax filing system prevents disruptions in payroll and legal issues, allowing businesses to focus on growth and day-to-day activities.

Credibility and Reputation

Regular filing of professional tax returns boosts a company’s reputation and credibility. It sends a positive signal to employees, clients, and business partners that the business is well-managed and follows legal guidelines. This can also enhance the company's reputation in terms of corporate governance and responsibility.

Improved Employee TrustImproved Employee Trust

When employers properly deduct and remit professional tax on behalf of their employees, it fosters trust and a sense of security among the workforce. Employees appreciate that their tax obligations are being handled correctly, which improves job satisfaction and morale.

Tax Deductions

Professional tax paid by an employer on behalf of employees can be deducted from the employee's taxable income. This means that the professional tax is eligible for a deduction under Section 16 of the Income Tax Act for the employee, reducing the overall income tax liability.

The eligibility to pay Professional Tax (PT) varies depending on the state laws in India, but generally, the following criteria apply:

  • Employers:

    • Eligibility: Employers with 10 or more employees (in most states) or those with a total annual salary exceeding a certain threshold must register for professional tax and deduct the tax from employees’ wages.
    • Obligations: Employers are responsible for registering with the state, deducting professional tax from employees, and filing returns regularly.
  • Employees:

    • Eligibility: Employees earning above the state’s prescribed income threshold (e.g., ₹7,500 or ₹10,000 per month) are liable to pay professional tax. The tax amount depends on the income slab set by the state.
  • Self-Employed Professionals:

    • Eligibility: Self-employed individuals such as doctors, lawyers, and consultants with earnings above the threshold must pay professional tax directly to the state.
  • Exemptions:

    • Common exemptions include low-income earners, senior citizens, disabled individuals, and family members of armed forces. Retired individuals may also be exempt in certain states.
  • Registration:

    • Mandatory for employers with the required number of employees and income thresholds. Self-employed professionals must also register with the state.
    • Most states offer online registration through the Professional Tax Department.

Checklist for Professional Tax Registration and Filing:

  • Eligibility:

    • Employers with 10+ employees or meeting state income criteria must register.
    • Employees with income above the state threshold (e.g., ₹7,500/month) need to pay.
    • Self-employed professionals earning above the state threshold must also register and pay.
  • Registration:

    • Employers and self-employed professionals must complete registration online or offline, submitting required documents like PAN, business proof, and income details.
  • Filing Returns:

    • Employers must file returns monthly or quarterly, reporting employee details and deductions.
    • Tax must be calculated and deducted based on state-prescribed slabs.
  • Payment:

    • Professional tax payments must be made before the due date to avoid penalties.
    • Both employer and employee contributions should be paid.
  • Record Keeping:

    • Maintain accurate records of deductions, payments, and filings.
    • Keep proof of payment and tax filings for future reference.
  • Exemptions:

    • Check for eligible exemptions (e.g., low-income earners, senior citizens) and ensure proper documentation.

Documents Required for Professional Tax Registration and Filing

  • 1. For Employers:

    • Proof of Establishment:

      • Certificate of Incorporation (for companies) or Partnership Deed (for partnerships).
      • Trade License or any document proving the business existence.
    • PAN Card:

      • PAN Card of the business and the authorized signatory.
    • Proof of Business/Employment:

      • List of employees: Name, designation, and salary details.
      • Salary Structure or payroll information.
    • GST Registration (if applicable):

      • Copy of GST Registration Certificate if the business is registered under GST.
    • Bank Account Details:

      • Cancelled cheque or bank account statement for the business.
    • Aadhaar Card:

      • Aadhaar details of the employer and authorized signatory (if required by the state).
    • Previous Tax Payment Details (if applicable):

      • Tax payment receipts for previous filings (for businesses already registered).

    2. For Self-Employed Professionals:

    • Proof of Profession:

      • Business License or Degree/License relevant to the profession (e.g., a medical degree for doctors, law degree for lawyers).
    • PAN Card:

      • PAN Card of the individual professional.
    • Income Details:

      • Proof of income such as tax returns, bank statements, or earnings certificate.
    • Bank Account Details:

      • Bank details for payment of professional tax.
    • Aadhaar Card (if required by the state).

    3. For Filing Professional Tax Returns:

    • Employee Details:

      • List of employees with their name, designation, and salary.
      • Tax deductions made for each employee.
    • Tax Payment Proof:

      • Receipts or challans confirming the payment of professional tax to the government.
    • Professional Tax Return Forms:

      • Completed return forms with the required employee and payment information.

Documents necessary for filing SPICe+ form (INC-32) for the registration of a private limited company are outlined as follows:

A. For Indian Nationals serving as directors and subscribers:
  • Affidavit on stamp paper: a declaration by all subscribers affirming their intention to become shareholders of the company
  • Office address proof like the Rental Agreement or Ownership Deed
  • Electricity bill, water bill and other utility bills of the last two months
  • Copy of approval if required
  • Trademark registration details
  • NOC from property owner
  • Proof of identity and address
B. Required Documents For Foreign Nationals serving as directors/Shareholders
  • Passport: Proof of identity
  • Address proof: Accepted documents include a driving license, residence card, bank statement, or government-issued identification with a valid address.

Types of Professional Tax (PT)

Professional Tax (PT) is levied by state governments in India, and the types and rates of professional tax vary based on the nature of the profession and the income level. Below are the common types of professional tax:

Employer Professional Tax (Employer Contribution)

This is the tax that employers are required to deduct from employees' salaries and pay to the state government. The employer is responsible for registering the establishment, collecting professional tax from employees, and filing returns.

Self-Employed Professional Tax

Self-employed professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, consultants, and freelancers, who earn an income above the prescribed threshold, must pay professional tax directly to the state government.

Fixed or Lump Sum Professional Tax

In some states, self-employed individuals and small businesses may be required to pay a fixed amount of professional tax annually, regardless of income, based on the nature of the profession.

Monthly/Quarterly/Annual Professional Tax

In some states, professional tax returns must be filed monthly, especially by businesses with large workforces.

Municipal Professional Tax

Certain cities or municipalities levy professional tax at the local level. This type of tax is distinct from the state-level professional tax and is applicable only within that municipality or local jurisdiction.

Characteristics of Professional Tax (PT)

  • State-Specific: Professional tax is regulated by state governments, with varying rules, rates, and exemptions.
  • Income-Based: The tax is levied on income, either as a slab-based deduction for salaried employees or a fixed amount for certain professions.
  • Employer and Employee Contributions: Employers deduct professional tax from employees’ salaries and remit it to the state, while self-employed professionals pay it directly.
  • Periodic Payments: Professional tax is paid monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on state requirements.
  • Registration Requirement: Businesses with a certain number of employees and self-employed professionals earning above a threshold must register with the state’s tax department.
  • Exemptions: Certain individuals, such as low-income earners, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, may be exempt from paying the tax.
  • Welfare Use: Funds collected from professional tax are typically used for local welfare and infrastructure programs.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Late payments or failure to file returns result in penalties or legal action.
  • Non-Refundable: Unlike income tax, professional tax is non-refundable, but it can be deducted from taxable income for employees.

The process for registering for professional tax (PT) varies slightly depending on the state, but here is a general outline of how to register:

step

1. Determine Eligibility for Registration

  • Employers: If you have 10 or more employees (depending on the state) or meet the prescribed income threshold, you must register for professional tax.
  • Self-Employed Professionals: If you are a self-employed individual (e.g., a doctor, lawyer, or consultant) earning above the prescribed threshold, you need to register.

2. Gather Required Documents

  • For Employers:
    • Certificate of Incorporation or Partnership Deed.
    • PAN Card of the business and the authorized signatory.
    • Employee details: Name, designation, salary, and Aadhaar number (if applicable).
    • Bank details of the business.
  • For Self-Employed Professionals:
    • Proof of profession (e.g., business license or degree).
    • PAN Card.
    • Proof of income (e.g., bank statements, earnings certificate).
    • Bank details.

3. Register Online or Offline (Based on State Requirements)

  • Online Registration (for states that offer it):
    • Visit the official Professional Tax website of your respective state (e.g., Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka).
    • Complete the registration form with required details (business name, type, employee count, PAN, etc.).
    • Upload the necessary documents.
    • Submit the form and obtain your Professional Tax Registration Certificate (PTRC) or Enrollment Number.
  • Offline Registration (if online is not available):
    • Visit the Professional Tax Office in your region or municipal office.
    • Fill out the manual registration form and submit the required documents.
    • The authorities will process your registration and issue a Professional Tax Registration Certificate or Enrollment Number.

4. Pay Professional Tax

  • After registration, you must begin collecting and remitting professional tax on time.
  • For employers, you will deduct PT from employees’ salaries.
  • For self-employed individuals, you will pay directly to the state.

5. File Professional Tax Returns

  • Once registered, you must file returns regularly (monthly, quarterly, or annually) based on the state’s requirements. Submit details about employee salary deductions (for employers) and tax payments.

  • Ensure timely payment and filing to avoid penalties.

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