How to Claim Stamp Duty Exemption on Your Property?

It is common for Indian people to know about the Income Tax benefits they can claim. However, while Section 80C is the most famous section of the Income Tax Act, yet only a few people know about the exemption of stamp duty and the registration fees paid for purchasing a property. Let's take a closer look at all these rules.

What are the Conditions for Stamp Duty Exemption?

According to Section 80C(viii)(d), you can claim tax benefits of up to Rs 1.50 lakhs on your stamp duty and registration charges for a residential property. Although, stamp duty exemption is allowed only to individuals and HUFs (Hindu Undivided Family). Additional conditions:

In order to claim exemption of these expenses, it is important to ensure that you have paid the same during the current year. You cannot claim tax benefits for expenses that you haven't paid yet.For example, let's say you purchase a property and pay the stamp duty and registration fees on 10/09/2021. The deduction for these expenses is available only for FY 2021-22.

In case you purchase a residential property jointly with your spouse, both of you can claim a deduction of Rs. 1.50 Lakhs each. So, joint owners can claim double tax benefits.

For an under-construction property, you can claim the stamp duty exemption only when it comes into your possession. However, you must be the title owner of the property to claim this tax benefit.

Tax benefits of stamp duty and registration fees are not available if you purchase a residential property that is resold. This means fresh occupancy is necessary to claim the tax benefits. On the other hand, tax benefits are not allowed for the purchase of a commercial property or a plot of land.

There is a lock-in period for the investments admissible under Section 80C. Similarly, to claim the tax benefits for your property, you cannot sell it before the completion of 5 years. If you sell your property within this time,

Modes to pay Stamp Duty

Stamp Duty can be paid in the following ways:

Costs that are Not Covered under Stamp Duty Exemption

Stamp duty exemption is allowed only for the payment of stamp duty, registration charges and all other expenses incidental to the transfer of property. So, here is a list of expenses that you cannot claim under Section 80C.