Published Dec 18, 2025 4 Min Read

Gross income refers to the total earnings an individual receives before any deductions like taxes or exemptions are applied. It includes income from all sources such as salaries, bonuses, rental income, interest, and dividends. Understanding gross income is essential as it forms the basis for calculating taxable income, helping you plan your finances effectively.


If you are looking to safeguard your savings and earn predictable returns, consider starting a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit. With just Rs. 15,000, you can begin building your financial stability today. Open FD account

What is gross income?

Gross income, also known as gross total income, is the total earnings an individual or business receives before any deductions or taxes. 

It includes income from multiple sources, such as:

  1. Salaries and Wages: This includes all compensation received from employment, such as basic salary, bonuses, and commissions.
  2. Business and Professional Income: Earnings from business activities or professional services.
  3. Capital Gains: Profits from the sale of assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate.
  4. Rental Income: Includes the income you receive from renting out properties.
  5. Dividends and Interest: Income from investments in stocks, and deposits in savings accounts and term deposits. 
  6. Other Sources: Includes income from sources that is not categorised above.

What is taxable income?

Taxable income is the portion of your gross income on which taxes are levied after accounting for deductions and exemptions. It is calculated by subtracting eligible deductions, such as Section 80C investments and exemptions, from your gross income, including allowances like House Rent Allowance (HRA). Knowing your taxable income ensures accurate tax liability calculations, helping you avoid penalties.


 

For long-term financial planning, explore Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits. With flexible tenures and assured returns, they are ideal for securing your financial future. Check rates.

How to calculate taxable income?

Follow these steps to determine your taxable income:

  1. Determine Gross Income
    Add up all sources of income to calculate your gross total income.
  2. Subtract Deductions
    Deduct eligible expenses such as retirement savings, home loan interest, medical insurance premiums, etc. Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, several deductions are available to reduce tax liability.
  3. Apply Exemptions
    Account for applicable exemptions, such as house rent allowance (HRA) under Section 10(13A), subject to specific conditions.
  4. Calculate Taxable Income
    After subtracting deductions and exemptions from your gross income, the remaining amount is your taxable income.
    Note: Keep in mind the tax regime under which you are filing:
    1. The old tax regime offers numerous deductions.
    2. The new tax regime provides lower tax rates with limited deductions available.

Key differences between gross income and taxable income

AspectGross IncomeTaxable Income
DefinitionTotal earnings before deductionsIncome remaining after deductions/exemptions
ComponentsSalary, bonuses, dividends, etc.Gross income minus deductions/exemptions
PurposeRepresents total earning capacityDetermines tax liability
ExampleRs. 10,00,000 (annual salary with benefits)Rs. 7,50,000 (after deductions)

By understanding these differences, you can better manage your income and taxes while planning for future financial goals.

Conclusion

Gross income and taxable income are crucial concepts for effective financial planning. While gross income reflects your total earnings, taxable income determines your tax liability. By leveraging deductions and exemptions, you can optimise your taxable income and reduce your taxes.


 

To secure your savings and earn predictable returns, consider Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits. With CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(Stable) ratings, they offer safety and flexibility. Start with just Rs. 15,000 today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I report gross income or taxable income?

You report taxable income, which is derived after subtracting deductions and exemptions from your gross income. This figure determines your tax liability.

Why is my gross income less than my taxable income?

Gross income is reduced by deductions and exemptions to calculate taxable income. If certain components of gross income are not deductible, your taxable income may appear higher.

Is my taxable income the same as my gross income?

No, taxable income is derived from gross income after accounting for deductions like Section 80C investments and exemptions like HRA.


 

By understanding gross and taxable income, you can make informed decisions for better financial management. To ensure your savings grow steadily, explore Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits, offering assured returns and flexible tenures. Open an FD today!

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.

Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.