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Understanding ITR-1 (Sahaj): Simplified Filing for Individuals

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ITR-1 (Sahaj) is a user-friendly income tax return form for resident individuals (Ordinary Residents) with uncomplicated income sources. This form cannot be used by HUFs or non-residents. It caters to taxpayers earning from:

  • Salary or Family Pension

  • One House Property (no carried forward or brought forward loss)

  • Other Sources (excluding winnings from lottery and racehorses)

  • NEW: Limited Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) under specific conditions

Eligibility Criteria for AY 2024-25 vs. AY 2025-26

What Stayed the Same?

The disqualifying conditions for filing ITR-1 remain unchanged. You’re not eligible if you:

  • Own foreign assets or have a signing authority in foreign accounts

  • Earn foreign income

  • Are governed by Portuguese Civil Code (Section 5A)

  • Claim deductions under Section 57 (except family pension)

  • Are a director in any company

  • Hold unlisted equity shares

  • Claim foreign tax relief under Sections 90/90A or deductions under Section 91

  • Earn agricultural income > ₹5,000

  • Have total income > ₹50 lakh

  • Receive income under Section 115BBDA or 115BBE

  • Have tax deducted under Section 194N

  • Have deferred tax under Sections 191(2) or 192(1C)

What Changed in AY 2025-26?

The biggest update is the inclusion of long-term capital gains (LTCG) under certain limits.

New Eligibility Clause:

You can now use ITR-1 if all of the following conditions are met:

  • LTCG is only under Section 112A (sale of listed equity shares/mutual fund units with STT paid)

  • Total LTCG ≤ ₹1.25 lakh

  • No capital gains losses to be carried forward or brought forward

This makes ITR-1 more accessible to small retail investors.

Why This Matters for Small Investors

Previously, even a modest capital gain would force taxpayers to file ITR-2, a more complex form. With this relaxation, individuals with limited LTCG can continue using ITR-1, simplifying their tax filing process.

Benefits:

  • Saves time and effort

  • Avoids unnecessary complexity

  • Reduces chances of filing errors

At-a-Glance Comparison Table

Aspect AY 2024-25 AY 2025-26
Capital Gains
Not allowed
Allowed under Section 112A ≤ ₹1.25 lakh
Capital Losses
Not applicable
Still not allowed
Disqualifying Conditions
13 Conditions
Same as before

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