by
icicilombard 002
| Mar 12, 2024
Updated on Nov 2025
Saving tax is one of the main reasons why many people choose certain investment options. The Income Tax Act provides various sections that allow tax deductions, and one of the most widely used is Section 80CCD(1B).
In this blog, let us look at Section 80CCD(1B) in detail: the savings it applies to and how you can benefit from it.
80CCD 1B in income tax
Section 80CCD (1B) of the Income Tax Act provides an extra tax deduction of up to ₹50,000 for investments made in the individual's Tier-I NPS account. This is over and above the ₹1.5 lakh deduction available under Section 80C, which also covers tax reduction for the premium of a health insurance policy for the family. Tax deduction under 80CCD (1B) is available to all individuals - salaried, self-employed or professionals. However, the benefit is not available for contributions made by employers.
Eligibility for claiming deduction under section 80CCD(1B)
Not every taxpayer can use this section. The Income Tax Act sets clear eligibility rules:
- The deduction is available only to individuals. Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) or companies cannot claim it.
- Both salaried and self-employed individuals may claim the deduction if they contribute to the retirement account.
- The person claiming must be an Indian resident or a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) who has invested in the eligible retirement scheme.
- Contributions made by employers are not counted under 80CCD(1B); it covers only self-contributions
Maximum deduction limit under 80CCD(1B)
The maximum deduction under Section 80CCD(1B) is ₹50,000 per financial year. If the contribution is less than ₹50,000, the deduction is restricted to the actual amount invested.
Difference between 80CCD(1), 80CCD(1B) and 80CCD(2)
The scope of these three subsections of the Income Tax Act is different.
80CCD(1): Self-contribution to retirement account. Limit is 10% of salary (salaried) or 20% of gross income (self-employed), within ₹1.5 lakh overall limit.
80CCD(1B): Additional self-contribution deduction up to ₹50,000, over ₹1.5 lakh limit.
80CCD(2): Employer contribution deduction up to 10% of salary (basic + DA), separate from 80C and 80CCD(1B).
How to claim 80CCD(1B) deduction in the income tax return?
The deduction may be claimed while filing the Income Tax Return (ITR). The steps are simple:
- Identify the eligible contributions made in the financial year.
- Report these contributions under the “Deductions under Chapter VI-A” section in the ITR form.
- Select the relevant subsection (80CCD(1B)) when entering the amount.
- Keep receipts or statements of contribution as proof in case verification is required.
Benefits of claiming deduction under 80CCD(1B)
Claiming a deduction under 80CCD (1B) provides multiple advantages:
- Lowers taxable income, which may reduce overall tax liability.
- Encourages disciplined retirement savings by providing a tax benefit.
- Offers an additional deduction of ₹50,000, which may be useful for taxpayers who already use the entire 80C limit.
- Contributions may also provide long-term financial security, since the savings are directed towards retirement planning.
Example of 80CCD(1B) deduction calculation
Let’s say the annual salary of an individual is ₹10,00,000. The person’s NPS Tier 1 contribution is ₹70,000 and other deductions (e.g., 80C) account to ₹1,30,000.
Calculation:
Total NPS contribution: ₹70,000
Eligible for reduction under 80CCD(1B): ₹50,000 (as the maximum limit is ₹50,000)
Total deduction under 80CCD(1B): ₹50,000
Tax impact (Assuming 30% Tax Bracket):
Taxable income before deduction: ₹10,00,000 - ₹1,30,000 = ₹8,70,000
Taxable income after 80CCD(1B) deduction: ₹8,70,000 - ₹50,000 = ₹8,20,000
Tax saved: ₹50,000 × 30% = ₹15,000 (excluding cess)
Final taxable income: ₹8,20,000
Conclusion
Section 80CCD(1B) serves as a special provision in the Income Tax Act that allows individuals to claim an additional deduction for their retirement savings. It is different from 80CCD(1) and 80CCD(2) and provides a maximum deduction of ₹50,000 as an extra benefit. Understanding its rules, eligibility and calculation method can help individuals use it effectively when filing their income tax returns.
As you take steps to secure your retirement through contributions under 80CCD(1B), consider safeguarding your future with the right health insurance policy. Get personalised insurance advice and solutions by filling out the form provided on this page.
FAQs
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1. Can both salaried and self-employed individuals claim 80CCD(1B)?
Yes, both categories of taxpayers may claim a tax deduction under 80CCD (1B), provided they contribute to the eligible retirement account.
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2. Can an employer’s contribution be claimed under 80CCD(1B)?
No, only self-contributions qualify under 80CCD(1B). Employer contributions come under 80CCD(2).
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3. Can Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) claim this deduction under 80CCD(1B)?
Yes, NRIs who contribute to the eligible retirement account may also claim a deduction.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.