Section 80D: Deductions for Medical and Health Insurance

Read on to know more about what is Section 80D of the Income Tax Act and the deductions offered under health insurance.
Get Quote
Buy Health Insurance Plans
Get Quote
3 min
15-September-2023

With rising healthcare costs, having a health insurance is essential to ensure access to quality medical care. Section 80D of the Income Tax Act allows taxpayers to claim deductions on premiums paid for health insurance policies, thereby encouraging individuals to prioritise their health and well-being.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of Section 80D deductions, exploring eligibility criteria, the deductions allowed, preventive health check-ups, provisions for senior citizens, and other related aspects.

What is Section 80D of the Income Tax Act?

Section 80D is a provision in the Income Tax Act, 1961, that offers tax deductions to individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who have purchased health insurance policies. The primary objective of this section is to promote health insurance coverage among taxpayers, ensuring that they have access to adequate healthcare facilities without straining their finances.

Eligibility for tax deduction under Section 80D

To avail tax deductions under Section 80D, individuals and HUFs must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Individuals:

Any individual taxpayer can claim deductions under Section 80D for health insurance premiums paid for themselves, their spouses, children, and parents. It is important to note that these family members can be dependant or non-dependant.

HUFs:

Hindu Undivided Families can claim deductions for the health insurance premiums paid to cover the health of any family member, including dependant parents.

The income tax slabs for FY 24-25 are essential for determining the applicable tax rates for different income levels.

What is the tax deduction limit under Section 80D?

Section 80D deduction limit provides tax benefits to individuals who choose to invest in health insurance policies. According to this section, an individual can claim up to Rs. 25,000 of tax deduction for the premiums paid towards health insurance for themselves, spouse, and dependent children. However, if the policy covers their parents, an additional deduction of up to Rs. 25,000 is allowed.

Additionally, if the parents are senior citizens, the deduction limit is increased to Rs. 50,000. Investing in health insurance policies not only provides financial security to individuals but also helps them in availing tax benefits. Hence, it is recommended to invest in a suitable health insurance policy to secure the financial future.

Read more: Health insurance for senior citizens

Pro Tip

Avail hospitalisation and treatment benefits with health insurance plans starting at just Rs. 15*/day.

health-insurance-banner

What deductions are allowed under Section 80D?

Here are the deductions allowed under Section 80D:

  • Taxpayers can avail a deduction of up to Rs. 25,000 for premiums paid towards medical insurance for themselves, spouses, and dependant children.
  • A deduction of up to Rs. 25,000 is allowed for medical insurance premiums paid for parents below the age of 60 years.
  • In case an individual or a parent is a senior citizen, the deduction on medical insurance premiums is increased to Rs. 50,000.
  • If an individual pays for medical insurance premiums for their HUF member(s), they can claim a deduction up to Rs. 25,000.
  • HUFs can claim a further deduction of up to Rs. 25,000 if any member is below 60 years of age.
  • In the case of senior citizen HUF members, the deduction limit is increased to Rs. 50,000.
Covered category

Premium paid (in Rs.)

 Maximum tax exemption (as per Sec. 80D) (in Rs.)

For self, spouse, children

For parents

Individuals and parents below the age of 60

25,000

25,000

 50,000

Individuals below the age of 60; parents above the age of 60

25,000

50,000

75,000

Individuals and parents above the age of 60

50,000

50,000

 1,00,000

HUFs below the age of 60

25,000

25,000

25,000

HUFs above the age of 60

50,000

50,000

50,000


Health insurance tax benefits - Important points to remember

When claiming tax benefits under Section 80D, keep the following key points in mind:

  • The premiums paid for policies must be in the taxpayer's name. Premiums paid for policies in someone else's name, even if they are family members, are not eligible for deductions.
  • The deductions are available for policies covering any kind of health-related expenses, including preventive care and hospitalisation.
  • The premiums paid for critical illness riders or riders offering additional coverage are also eligible for deductions under Section 80D.
  • It is crucial to retain proof of premium payments, as it may be required during the tax assessment process.

What are preventive health check-ups under Section 80D?

Preventive health check-ups are an integral part of maintaining good health. To encourage individuals to prioritise preventive care, Section 80D of the Income Tax Act provides deductions for expenses incurred on preventive health check-ups. Here's what you need to know:

  • Taxpayers can claim a deduction of up to Rs. 5,000 for preventive health check-ups for themselves, their family members, or their parents. This deduction is within the overall limit specified under Section 80D.
  • Preventive health check-ups include medical tests and screenings to detect potential health issues before they become serious. These may include blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic procedures.
  • The deduction is available for expenses incurred on preventive health check-ups for family members, including spouses, children, and parents.
  • Ensure that you retain the receipts and documentation for preventive health check-ups as proof when claiming deductions.

Deduction for medical expenses of senior citizens under Section 80D

Senior citizens often have higher healthcare needs, and the Indian government acknowledges this by providing additional tax benefits. Under Section 80D, the following provisions are made for senior citizens:

If an individual or their spouse is a senior citizen (60 years or older), the maximum deduction limit for health insurance premiums increases to Rs. 50,000 for themselves and their parents.

This higher deduction limit helps senior citizens manage their healthcare expenses more effectively.

Also, check mediclaim insurance online.

What are the deductions under Section 80DD of the Income Tax Act?

Apart from Section 80D, the Income Tax Act also includes Section 80DD, which offers deductions for individuals who have dependants with disabilities. Under Section 80DD:

  • Taxpayers can claim deductions for the expenses incurred on the maintenance, including medical treatment, of dependants with disabilities.
  • The maximum deduction limit under Section 80DD is Rs. 75,000, which can go up to Rs. 1.25 lakh in cases of severe disabilities.
  • To be eligible for this deduction, the dependant must be a spouses, children, parents, or siblings of the taxpayer.

What are the deductions under Section 80DDB of the Income Tax Act?

Section 80DDB of the Income Tax Act provides deductions for expenses related to specified diseases and ailments. Here's what you need to know about Section 80DDB:

  • Taxpayers can claim deductions for the expenses incurred on the treatment of specified diseases for themselves, their family members, or dependants.
  • The maximum deduction limit under Section 80DDB varies depending on the age of the patient. For individuals below 60 years, the limit is Rs. 40,000, while for senior citizens (above 60 years), it is Rs. 1 lakh.
  • To claim this deduction, you need to provide a certificate from a specialist doctor confirming the ailment and treatment.

Things to remember when availing tax deductions under Section 80D

While Section 80D offers significant tax benefits, it is crucial to keep the following points in mind:

• Premium payments:

Ensure that premiums are paid through banking channels like cheques, demand drafts, or electronic transfers. Cash payments are not eligible for deductions.

• Maintain documentation:

Retain all relevant documents, such as premium payment receipts and certificates from specialist doctors for specified diseases, as they may be required during tax assessments.

• Understand limits:

Familiarise yourself with the deduction limits based on the age of the insured individuals and the premiums paid.

• Claim for preventive health check-ups:

Do not forget to claim deductions for preventive health check-ups, which can help you maintain good health and save on taxes.

• Consider riders:

Explore the option of adding riders to your health insurance policy for additional coverage, as premiums paid for riders are also eligible for deductions.

The tax deductions under Section 80D provide a considerable tax benefit to reduce the income tax liability related to medical expenses. It is vital to ensure that the payments meet the criteria and keep proof of the payment for claiming these deductions. In this way, individuals and HUFs may benefit from such deductions while taking medical insurance for health coverage.

Frequently asked questions

What is Section 80D of the Income Tax Act?

Section 80D of the Income Tax Act provides deductions for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) on medical and health insurance premiums paid. The deduction amount is excluded from an individual's gross total income, resulting in a lower income tax liability.

Are preventive health checkups covered under Section 80D?

Yes, preventive health check-ups are covered under Section 80D. An individual can claim a tax deduction of up to Rs. 5,000 for expenses incurred during such check-ups for immediate family members or HUF members.

Is there any deduction for medical expenses of senior citizens under Section 80D?

Yes, Section 80D provides an additional tax deduction for senior citizens. Any medical expense incurred for the treatment of a senior citizen, not covered under the medical insurance plan, is allowed as a deduction under Section 80D. The deduction limit is up to Rs. 50,000 for senior citizens.

What are the additional 80D deductions?

Section 80D also provides an additional deduction of Rs. 5,000 for expenses incurred for preventive health check-ups. This benefit is available within the overall limit of the section.

How to fill 80D in income tax return?

In the income tax return form, taxpayers can claim deductions under Section 80D by filling in the relevant details in the 'Income Details' and 'Deductions' sections of the form. This includes details such as the amount paid towards health insurance premiums, the age of the policyholder and the person covered, and other relevant information.

How can medical bills be claimed under 80D?

Medical bills can be claimed under Section 80D only for preventive health check-ups. The deduction is available up to Rs. 5,000 within the overall limit of the section. To claim this deduction, individuals need to submit the receipts of the medical expenses incurred along with the income tax return. This will help them reduce their tax liability and save money.

What is the maximum exemption under 80D?

The maximum exemption limit under 80D of the Income Tax Act varies according to the age of the taxpayer and the insured. For individuals under 60 years of age, the maximum exemption amount is Rs. 25,000 per financial year. For senior citizens above 60 years of age, the exemption limit is Rs. 50,000 per financial year. If the taxpayer is paying medical insurance premiums for their senior citizen parents, an additional deduction of up to Rs. 50,000 can be claimed.

Show More Show Less

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

GET THE APP

Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Future Generali Life Insurance Company Limited, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, The New India Assurance Company Limited, Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited , Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited, Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited and Care Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite CA registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. Please refer insurer's website for Policy Wordings. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services.  Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also a distributor of other third party products from Assistance Services providers such as CPP Assistance Services Pvt. Ltd., Bajaj Finserv Health Ltd. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, sum insured, value added services, etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective insurance company or the respective Assistance service provider company.

Note – While we have made all efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits, etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective product’s sales brochures before concluding their sale.