Published Dec 26, 2025 · 4 Min Read

Understanding taxes is essential for managing your finances effectively. Among the many taxes in India, professional tax and income tax often cause confusion. While both contribute to the government’s revenue, they differ significantly in their purpose, applicability, and governing authorities. This guide will help you understand the key differences between professional tax and income tax, enabling you to plan your finances better.


Additionally, savings from tax benefits can be effectively utilised to secure your future. For instance, you can invest in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit to enjoy predictable returns and grow your wealth steadily.

What is income tax?

Income tax is a direct tax levied by the central government on an individual’s or entity’s earnings during a financial year. It applies to various income sources, including salary, business profits, capital gains, and other earnings. The rate of income tax depends on the taxpayer's income slab, as defined by the government.

 

Advantages of filing income tax

  • Legal compliance and contribution to nation-building
    Filing income tax ensures you comply with the law and contribute to the country’s economic growth. It also helps the government allocate resources for public welfare and infrastructure development.
  • Access to loans and financial products
    Filing income tax returns (ITR) is often a prerequisite for availing loans such as home loans or personal loans. It also makes it easier to access financial products like a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit, which offers assured returns and helps you grow your savings. Check FD rates.
  • Claim tax refunds
    Filing ITR allows you to claim refunds for excess taxes paid, ensuring you receive all eligible exemptions and deductions.


 

What is professional tax?

Professional tax is a state-level tax imposed on individuals earning income through employment, profession, or trade. It is deducted by employers for salaried employees and paid directly by self-employed individuals. The maximum professional tax that can be levied in a year is Rs. 2,500, as per Article 276 of the Indian Constitution.


Advantages of professional tax filing

  • Tax planning benefits
    Professional tax is deductible under Section 16 of the Income Tax Act, reducing your taxable income and lowering your overall tax liability.
  • Legal compliance
    Paying professional tax ensures you comply with state laws, avoiding penalties and legal complications.
  • Supports state development
    The revenue generated from professional tax is used for state-level welfare programs and infrastructure development.

Professional tax vs Income tax: Key differences

While both professional tax and income tax contribute to government revenue, they are fundamentally different in terms of their applicability and governance.

AspectProfessional TaxIncome Tax
Governing AuthorityState governmentCentral government
ApplicabilityBased on profession or tradeBased on total income
Maximum LimitRs. 2,500/yearNo maximum limit
DeductibilityDeductible under Section 16Not deductible

Understanding these differences can help you manage your finances better. For instance, the savings from professional tax deductions can be invested in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit to secure predictable returns and achieve financial stability. Open FD account

Conclusion

Professional tax and income tax serve different purposes, with the former being a state-level tax on professions and the latter a central government tax on income. Complying with these taxes not only ensures legal adherence but also offers tax-saving opportunities.


To make the most of your tax savings, consider investing in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit. With a minimum deposit of Rs. 15,000, you can enjoy assured returns and grow your wealth steadily. Start planning your financial future today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is professional tax deductible from income tax?

Yes, professional tax is deductible from income tax under Section 16 of the Income Tax Act. This deduction reduces your taxable income, lowering your overall tax liability.

Will professional tax be refunded?

No, professional tax is not refundable. It is a state-imposed tax and is deducted regardless of your income tax refund eligibility.

What are the benefits of professional tax on salary?

Professional tax ensures compliance with state laws, reduces taxable income through deductions, and supports state development. It also helps avoid penalties for non-compliance.

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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.