Earning a salary of ₹35 lakh a year is a significant milestone, reflecting career growth and financial stability. However, it also places you in a higher tax bracket, where income tax rates, surcharge, and cess can substantially impact your take-home pay. Understanding how these taxes apply is no longer optional but essential to smart financial planning.
With Budget 2025 bringing clarity and updates to income tax rules, salaried individuals must stay informed about applicable slabs, deductions, and exemptions. A clear understanding of income tax on a ₹35 lakh salary helps you make informed choices, minimise unnecessary tax outgo, and plan your finances with confidence for the future.
Key Takeaways
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For individuals earning ₹35 lakh annually, the Union Budget 2025 has brought meaningful changes that directly affect how income tax is calculated. The government has continued its focus on simplifying taxation while making the new tax regime more attractive for higher-income groups. As income levels rise, even small changes in slabs, deductions, or surcharge rules can lead to a noticeable difference in tax outgo.
The budget has retained the progressive slab structure while improving the appeal of the new regime through better deductions and easier compliance. This has prompted many salaried individuals to reassess their existing tax strategy and compare regimes more carefully than before. After all, the new tax regime enables you to save up to ₹80,000 on an income of ₹12 lakh.
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One of the most notable updates under the new tax regime is the availability of a standard deduction of ₹75,000. This will be applicable from 1st April 2026. This also provides immediate marginal relief to salaried individuals without requiring additional paperwork. The slab structure under the new regime has also been adjusted to provide smoother tax progression for higher-income taxpayers.
Another important aspect is simplified compliance. The new regime removes the need to track multiple exemptions, such as Section 80C, 80D, house rent allowance, or leave travel allowance. For individuals earning ₹35 lakh who do not actively invest in tax-saving instruments, this regime can reduce complexity and planning stress.
At the same time, surcharge rates for high-income earners have remained stable. This ensures predictability in tax liability and helps salaried professionals plan their finances with more confidence.
There are no deductions available under the new regime other than those listed in Sections 80JJAA, 80M, and the standard deduction
Source: TOI
Saving tax at this income level requires a structured approach rather than last-minute decisions. Individuals who invest in eligible deductions such as a provident fund, health insurance, and life insurance may still find the old tax regime beneficial. These deductions can significantly reduce taxable income when used consistently.
Life insurance plays a dual role here. It not only provides financial protection but also supports tax efficiency when premiums qualify under Section 80C. Health insurance premiums under Section 80D further add to tax savings while strengthening financial security.
For those who prefer simplicity and fewer compliance requirements, the new regime may still work well, especially if deductions are minimal. The key is to compare the two regimes numerically before making a final decision.
Budget 2025 has made income tax planning for a ₹35 lakh salary more balanced and transparent. While the new tax regime offers simplicity and lower compliance, the old regime continues to reward disciplined saving and insurance planning. Choosing the right path depends on income structure, long-term goals, and willingness to plan. With the right strategy, even high-income earners can manage their taxes efficiently and protect their financial future.
Yes, a ₹35 lakh salary places you in the highest income tax slab and attracts 30% tax rate, including cess, making tax planning more important.
The better option depends on your financial profile. The new tax regime is ideal if you claim minimal deductions and prefer a simplified structure, while the old tax regime is more beneficial for those who regularly invest in tax-saving instruments and maximise available deductions and exemptions.
From April 2026, salaried individuals can claim a standard deduction of ₹75,000 under the new tax regime without additional documentation.
No, surcharge rates for higher-income groups remain unchanged, offering predictability in tax liability for those earning ₹35 lakh annually.
Disclaimer - This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited or any affiliated entity. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. You should consult with a qualified professional regarding your specific circumstances before taking any action based on the content provided herein.
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