When do I need to pay advance tax, and by when?
Short answer: If your tax for the year, after TDS, is Rs 10,000 or more, you pay advance tax in instalments: 15% by 15 June, 45% by 15 September, 75% by 15 December and 100% by 15 March. Presumptive taxpayers can pay the full amount by 15 March.
Advance tax means paying income tax during the year, as you earn, rather than all at once when you file your return. Salaried people usually do not need to think about it, because TDS covers their tax. Freelancers, consultants, landlords and investors often do.
| Pay by | Cumulative share of the year’s tax |
|---|---|
| 15 June | 15% |
| 15 September | 45% |
| 15 December | 75% |
| 15 March | 100% |
The percentages are cumulative. By 15 September, for example, you should have paid 45% in total, including the June instalment.
Paying late or paying too little can lead to interest. You pay advance tax online through the e-filing portal.
Plan your instalments with our freelancer tax planner.
Official sources
- Income Tax Department, Income Tax Department
- Income Tax e-filing portal, Income Tax Department
FinanceOpen is independent and is not affiliated with these bodies. Links open official websites in a new tab.
Keep reading
Link to or cite this page
Writing about this topic? You are welcome to link to this page. Copy a ready-made link or citation:
Spotted an error or something out of date? Report it to our editors. Read our corrections policy.
This page is general information to help you understand the topic. It is not tax, legal or financial advice for your situation. Rules can change; check the tax year shown above. See our disclaimer and editorial policy.