Calculating old vs new tax regime
Many taxpayers pick a tax route from habit rather than arithmetic. The government now applies one option by default, so inaction makes the choice for you. Every rupee you claim through deductions moves where the smarter option sits. Picture a break-even point. Below a certain level of deductions, the lower slab rates win, since you claim too little to justify the older structure. Once your investments, rent, and loan interest cross that threshold, deductions save you more. Treat this as arithmetic, not loyalty. Compare the old vs new tax regime against your own numbers, then let the total decide.