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Companies Act, 1956

While the company registered under the Companies Act, 1956 and engaged in a profession, trade or calling is liable to tax under Entry 20, its directors (other than those nominated by the Government) are liable to tax under Entry 5.
 

Professional Tax Return Filing involves the process of declaring and paying the professional tax collected from employees and/or self-employed individuals to the respective state government. Professional tax is a state-imposed tax levied on individuals earning income through employment, practice, or business. Employers must deduct this tax from employees’ salaries based on the applicable state slab rates and deposit it with the government. Self-employed individuals, such as freelancers or professionals, are required to pay the tax directly. Filing a professional tax return typically includes registering under the state-specific professional tax portal, reporting the collected tax, and submitting payment within the prescribed deadlines. Regular compliance is essential to avoid penalties, and the frequency of filing (monthly, quarterly, or annually) depends on the state regulations.

 
 

The frequency of professional tax return filing (monthly, quarterly, or annually) varies by state. For instance, Maharashtra requires monthly returns for employers and annual returns for individuals. Filing involves logging into the state’s professional tax portal, submitting details of deductions, making the payment, and uploading any required documents. Non-compliance, such as late payment or failure to file returns, can lead to penalties, fines, or interest on the outstanding tax. Timely and accurate professional tax return filing ensures legal compliance and avoids unnecessary financial or legal consequences.

Legal Compliance

Filing professional tax returns ensures adherence to state laws, avoiding penalties, interest, and legal complications. It demonstrates responsible and law-abiding behavior.

Avoidance of Penalties

Regular and timely filing helps avoid hefty fines or penalties for late payment or non-compliance, saving financial and reputational costs.

Claiming Deductions

For salaried individuals, professional tax paid is allowed as a deduction under Section 16 of the Income Tax Act, reducing their taxable income.

Proof of Tax Payment

Filed returns act as documented proof of tax payment, which may be required for audits, government contracts, or compliance checks.

Supports Revenue Collection

Filing professional tax returns contributes to state revenue, aiding in local development and infrastructure projects.

Ease of Business Operations

Compliance with professional tax laws fosters smooth operations by avoiding disputes with authorities and ensuring eligibility for licenses, permits, or registrations.

Professional tax is levied by state governments in India and applies to individuals and entities engaged in earning income. The eligibility criteria vary slightly across states but generally include the following:

 

  • 1. For Employers (Organizations)

    • Any business or organization that employs individuals and pays them salaries is liable to register under professional tax laws of the respective state.
    • Eligibility:
      • Companies, partnership firms, sole proprietorships, LLPs, and other entities employing staff.
      • Must deduct professional tax from employees’ salaries and deposit it with the government.
    • The employer must also file professional tax returns regularly.

    2. For Employees (Salaried Individuals)

    • Professional tax is deducted by the employer based on monthly income and deposited on behalf of the employee.
    • Employees earning a salary above the threshold specified by the respective state are eligible for professional tax deduction.
    • Example: In Maharashtra, professional tax is applicable if the monthly salary exceeds ₹7,500 for women and ₹10,000 for men.

    3. For Self-Employed Professionals

    • Self-employed individuals or professionals earning income through their trade or profession are required to pay professional tax directly.
    • Eligible Professions Include:
      • Doctors, lawyers, chartered accountants, architects, consultants, freelancers, etc.
    • They must register with the professional tax department of the state where they operate.

    4. For Businesses Without Employees

    • Sole proprietors and other business entities not employing staff are still liable to pay professional tax if they are engaged in income-generating activities.

    5. State-Specific Exemptions

    • Some individuals may be exempted based on state laws. Common exemptions include:
      • Senior citizens (above 65 years of age).
      • Disabled individuals with specified conditions.
      • Parents or guardians of mentally disabled children.
      • Members of the armed forces.

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure smooth professional tax compliance:

 

  • 1. Registration Requirements

    • Determine if your business or profession is liable for professional tax based on state-specific rules.
    • Obtain Professional Tax Registration Certificate (PTRC) for employers.
    • Obtain Professional Tax Enrollment Certificate (PTEC) for self-employed individuals and businesses without employees.

    2. Deductions and Payment

    • Deduct professional tax from employees’ salaries as per the applicable state slab rates.
    • Calculate professional tax payable by self-employed individuals or businesses without employees.
    • Deposit the deducted/collected tax to the state government within the specified due dates using the designated payment mode (online or offline).

    3. Return Filing

    • Log in to the state-specific professional tax portal (e.g., Maharashtra PT, Karnataka PT).
    • Fill out the professional tax return form (Form varies by state).
    • Provide details such as:
      • Total salary paid.
      • Professional tax deducted and paid.
      • Other applicable details (e.g., employer information, self-employed earnings).
    • Attach payment receipts or challans for deposited tax.
    • Submit the return by the due date (monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on state rules).

Here’s a list of documents you typically need for Professional Tax Registration and Return Filing:

  • For Registration (Employer or Business):

    • PAN card, proof of business address (utility bill/lease), certificate of incorporation (for companies), partnership deed, GST registration (if applicable), bank details, and identity proof of the business owner/partners.
  • For Self-Employed Professionals:

    • PAN card, Aadhaar or other ID proof, proof of address, professional practice certificate (e.g., CA, doctor), bank details, and photograph.
  • For Return Filing:

    • Professional tax registration certificate, salary registers (for employers), payment receipts/challans, Form 16 (if applicable), and the state-specific return form.
  • Additional Documents (if required):

    • Audited financial statements, annual returns, and digital signature for online filing.

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

Professional tax is levied by state governments in India and is categorized based on the nature of the taxpayer. Below are the main types:

 

Professional Tax for Employers (Employees)

Applicable to Employers: Employers are required to deduct professional tax from employees' salaries and deposit it with the state government.

Professional Tax for Self-Employed Individuals

Applicable to Freelancers and Professionals: Self-employed individuals (like doctors, lawyers, consultants, etc.) must pay professional tax directly to the government.

Professional Tax for Businesses (Without Employees)

Applicable to Sole Proprietors/Business Owners: Even if a business does not have employees, professional tax may be applicable if the business generates income.

Professional Tax for Partnership Firms

Applicable to Partnership Firms: Partners in a partnership firm who receive income from the firm are also subject to professional tax.

Professional Tax for Companies

Refers to a tax levied by state governments in India on individuals earning an income through employment, practice, or trade.

Filing professional tax returns involves reporting the professional tax deducted and paid by an employer or entity to the respective state government. The process varies by state but generally includes the following characteristics:

  • Periodic Filing: Returns are filed monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on state regulations.
  • State-Specific: Filing requirements, forms, and deadlines vary by state.
  • Employer’s Obligation: Employers must deduct professional tax, remit it, and file returns, even if no deductions are made in a period.
  • Dual Responsibility: Covers both employee deductions and the company’s professional tax liability.
  • Designated Forms: Each state has specific forms for professional tax returns (e.g., Form III-B in Maharashtra).
  • Documentation: Requires employee-wise deduction details and proof of tax payments.
  • Online/Offline Filing: Returns can often be filed online through state tax portals, though some states still allow manual submissions.
  • Deadlines: Filing deadlines vary, typically the end of the month following the taxable period.
  • Penalties: Late filing or non-compliance results in fines, interest, or legal action.

Registering for professional tax (PT) in India is essential for businesses and professionals to comply with state regulations. The process varies by state but generally involves the following steps:

step

1. Determine Applicability:

  • Employers: If your business employs staff, you’re required to register for PT.
  • Self-Employed Professionals: Individuals practicing professions like law, medicine, or engineering may need to register.

2. Gather Required Documents:

  • Certificate of Incorporation or LLP Agreement.
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
  • PAN Card of the company, LLP, proprietor, or director.
  • Address Proof of the business establishment.
  • Identity and Address Proof of the proprietor, owner, or directors.
  • Passport-sized Photographs of the proprietor, owner, or directors.
  • Details of Employees and Salaries Paid.
  • Additional Registrations and Licenses as applicable. 

3. Choose the Registration Method:

  • Online Registration: Many states offer online portals for PT registration. For instance, the Telangana Commercial Taxes Department provides an online registration facility. 
  • Offline Registration: Submit the application form along with the required documents to the concerned state tax department office.
  • Through Authorized Service Providers: Engage professionals or agencies specializing in PT registration to handle the process on your behalf.

4. Complete the Application Form:

  • Fill out the prescribed application form accurately.
  • Ensure all details match the supporting documents.

5. Submit the Application:

  • Online: Upload scanned copies of the required documents through the state’s official portal.
  • Offline: Submit the physical application and documents to the designated state tax office.

6. Await Processing:

  • The tax authority will review your application.
  • Upon approval, a Professional Tax Registration Certificate (PTRC) will be issued.

7. Post-Registration Compliance:

  • Display the Registration Certificate: Prominently at the business premises.
  • Deduct and Remit PT: From employees’ salaries as per state-specific rates and deadlines.
  • File Returns: Submit periodic PT returns as mandated by the state.

Note: Given the variations in PT laws across states, it’s advisable to consult the specific state’s tax department or a tax professional to ensure compliance.

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