Sanjeev Sinha

The scheme's key drawback is the low monetary thresholds of Rs 1 crore and Rs 5 crore, which limit participation

The proposal extends relief from penalty and prosecution in misreporting cases, but taxpayers must forgo the right to appeal and carefully weigh the strength of their case

Budget 2026 signals a shift towards trust-based taxation by easing penalties, limiting prosecution for small and technical lapses

Scrutiny may extend to other assessment years if disclosures suggest a pattern of non-compliance

Keep allocation measured and aligned to your risk appetite, given the segment's higher risk

The deduction claimed must be in proportion to their ownership share and actual EMI contribution

Begin making these investments now, based on informed choices, instead of waiting till the last moment when mistakes are more likely

Beware of comparisons with FDs, and demand that all promises be put down in writing

Chasing past performance ignores the principle that returns of all assets are mean-reverting

After a subdued 2025, midcap funds could recover in 2026 if earnings revive and rates stay supportive. Experts advise a calibrated 10-30 per cent allocation with a long-term horizon

A 13-14% medical inflation rate makes upward revision of sum insured essential

Systematic Unit Redemption offers market-linked returns and deferred tax payment, but does not guarantee pension for lifetime

End users should look beyond prime locations to emerging corridors and peripheral micro-markets that offer better pricing without compromising long-term liveability

If you file an updated return later, you will have to pay interest and additional tax, and will not be able to claim refunds

Once search or survey begins, even updated return may not be allowed

Policies typically reimburse cancellations for reasons such as medical emergencies, death of an immediate family member, or natural disasters

Follow this complaint escalation path: Bank's grievance cell, ombudsman, consumer commission, and then civil or criminal court

Tax department warns of penalties, details how to revise returns by December 31 deadline

Take-home pay may dip temporarily, expect retirement savings to rise

Overstating income or injuries, false implication, or missing hearings and notices can result in rejection