As a proprietor, looking for ways on how to save tax in proprietorship firm is a smart financial move. This requires understanding and implementing effective tax-saving strategies.
These not only significantly reduce your tax liability, but also increase your business’s profitability. Stay with us as we provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you achieve your tax-saving goals.
How to Save Tax in Proprietorship Firm: 17 Potent Ways
Let’s delve straight into tax benefits and tips for saving money for proprietorship firms in India:
Self-Employment Tax Deduction
Proprietorship firms can claim deductions on self-employment tax. These deductions are beneficial as it reduces the overall taxable income, thereby lowering the tax liability.
These can include contributions to the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) or National Pension System (NPS).
Business Expense Deductions
Proprietorship firms can claim deductions for ordinary and necessary business expenses incurred during operations.
You can deduct costs such as supplies, rent, utilities, and salaries. Properly documenting these expenses helps in maximizing tax savings.
Startup and Organizational Cost Deduction
New businesses can deduct startup costs and amortize some of them over years.
These expenses may include market research, legal fees, and advertising costs incurred before the business starts operations.
This deduction helps offset the initial expenses of starting a business,and also significantly reduce the tax burden in the initial years.
Claim Medical Insurance
Proprietors can deduct premiums paid for health insurance for themselves and their families under Section 80D.
This deduction can reduce your taxable income and also provide essential health coverage.
Deduct for Professional Fees
Fees paid for professional services, such as legal and accounting services, are deductible business expenses.
This includes costs for hiring lawyers, consultants or advisors, which can help improve business operations and reduce tax liability.
Seek Expert Advice:
Hiring a tax consultant or financial advisor from top firms like PKC Management Consulting can help identify tax-saving opportunities specific to your business.
Tax laws are complex and constantly changing, so expert advice can ensure compliance and optimize tax savings.
Deduct Depreciation on Assets
Assets like machinery, vehicles, and office equipment lose value over time.
Proprietorship firms can claim depreciation on these assets, reducing taxable income and thereby saving on taxes.
Opt for Investment-Based Tax Savings
Investments in tax-saving instruments can reduce taxable income under Section 80C, resulting in tax savings.
Some of these include Public Provident Fund (PPF), Equity-Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS), and National Savings Certificate (NSC)
Self-Employed Pension Scheme
Investing in a Self-Employed Pension Scheme, like the NPS, allows proprietors to claim deductions under Section 80CCD.
This not only helps in retirement planning but also offers significant tax savings.
Home Office Deduction
If a part of the home is used exclusively for business purposes, proprietors can claim a home office deduction.
This includes a portion of rent, utilities, and internet expenses, which can help reduce taxable income.
Bad Debts Deduction:
If a proprietor has debts that are uncollectible, they can deduct these amounts from their taxable income.
This deduction acknowledges the loss incurred and helps to lower the overall tax liability.
Interest on Business Loans
Interest paid on loans taken for business purposes is deductible. This deduction lowers the taxable income, providing relief to the business owner.
It may include loans for purchasing equipment or financing operations.
Avail Input Tax Credit (ITC)
For proprietorships registered under Goods and Services Tax (GST), input tax credit allows them to claim a refund on the GST paid for business purchases.
This effectively reduces the cost of inputs and lowers the overall tax liability.
Employ Family Members in Business:
Employing family members can lead to tax savings, as their salaries are deductible business expenses.
This can also help in income splitting, potentially lowering the overall tax burden if family members are in lower tax brackets.
Maintain Accurate Accounts
Keeping accurate and detailed financial records helps proprietors track expenses and income, ensuring they claim all eligible deductions.
Good record-keeping is essential for substantiating claims during tax assessments.
Presumptive Taxation Scheme
Proprietors with an annual turnover of up to Rs 2 crore can opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under Section 44AD.
This allows them to pay tax on a presumptive basis at a flat rate of 6% of gross receipts, simplifying tax compliance and potentially reducing tax liability.
Contribute to Recognized Charities
Donations made to registered charities are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80G.
This not only helps in reducing taxable income but also contributes to social causes, enhancing the business’s reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Saving for Proprietorship Firm
- How can a proprietorship firm reduce income tax?
A proprietorship firm can claim deductions and allowances, invest in tax-saving instruments, and adopt tax-efficient business practices to reduce their income tax liability.
- What are the tax benefits for a proprietorship firm?
Some of the benefits they can avail are – deductions for business expenses, investments, and personal expenses; lower tax rates under the presumptive taxation scheme; and potential for retirement savings.
- Are professional fees deductible in a proprietorship firm?
Yes, fees paid to professionals like lawyers, accountants, and consultants for services taken for your business are fully deductible from your firm’s income.
- How does claiming depreciation on assets help in saving tax?
Depreciation on assets like machinery, vehicles, and office equipment can be claimed as a deduction. This reduces the value of the asset in your books and lowers your taxable income, leading to tax savings.
- Why is it important to maintain accurate accounts in a proprietorship firm?
Maintaining accurate accounts ensures that all eligible deductions are claimed and helps avoid penalties or disallowances during tax assessments. Proper bookkeeping is essential for maximizing tax savings and ensuring compliance.
