Overpaid 5% TDS on Rent in FY 2024-25? Here’s How to Get Your Money Back Fast

Renting property in India? If you wrongly deducted 5% TDS instead of 2% in FY 2024-25, you’re not alone.

What is the TDS Rate on Rent for FY 2024-25?

The applicable TDS rates depend on who is paying and how much rent is being paid:

Tenant TypeMonthly RentTDS RateSection
Individual/HUF (not in tax audit)₹50,000 or more5%Section 194-IB
Individual/HUF (business under tax audit)Any amount10%Section 194-I
Company, Partnership, LLP, etc.Any amount10%Section 194-I

Why Some Paid 5% Instead of 2%?

In FY 2023-24, government employees and certain sectors received reduced TDS rates (2%) during pandemic relief phases.
⚡ That concession has ended.
For FY 2024-25, it’s standard 5% for eligible individual tenants under Section 194-IB.

Mistaken 2% deductions today can cause shortfall notices later

Common Mistakes Leading to Overpayment

  • Wrong rate selection while filing Form 26QC (TDS on Rent form).
  • Confusion with older fiscal rules (COVID relaxations).
  • Mix-up between Section 194-I and 194-IB applicability.

How to Claim TDS Refund for Overpaid Rent via TRACES

If you paid 5% instead of 2% (or wrongly deducted), here’s how you can fix it:

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Login to TRACES:
    Visit TRACES Portal and login using your PAN credentials.
  2. Refund Request:
    • Fill Form 26B (Refund request form).
    • Submit digitally via DSC or EVC.

Government Clarifications

  • CBDT Circular No. 3/2020 clarified TDS rates applicable post-COVID reliefs.