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Microlesson · 5-min read

Smart Summary of TDS Rates

# Smart Summary of TDS Rates

## General Rules

  • For sections other than specifically mentioned, the rate applies on the whole amount.
  • No PAN → Rate becomes 20% (general rule)

## Rates by Tier

### 0.1% Rate

  • 194Q - On excess over limit (No PAN: 5%)

### 1% Rate

  • 194C [Individual/HUF]
  • 194-IA

### 2% Rate

  • 194-I [P&M] (Plant & Machinery)
  • 194N (On excess over limit)
  • 194C [Others]
  • 194J → FTS, Non-Professional services, Call Centre, Royalty on Films

### 5% Rate

  • 194N [> ₹1 Cr, Limit ₹20L]
  • 194DA, 194G, 194H, 194-IB, 194M

### 10% Rate

  • 192A (No PAN: 20%)
  • 194-I
  • 194J (Regular professional services)
  • 193, 194
  • 194A, 194K
  • 194LA
  • 194R

### 30% Rate

  • 194B (Lottery winnings)
  • 194BB (Horse race winnings)

### Slab Rate

  • 192 (Salary)
  • 194P (Senior citizens)

## TDS Deductible Starting from Limits

  • 192A - ₹50,000 or more
  • 194DA - ₹1,00,000 or more
  • 194-IA - ₹50,00,000 or more

Worked example

### Example 1

Example: A contractor (Individual) is paid ₹2 lakhs for contract work. What is TDS rate u/s 194C?

Answer: 1% (since payee is Individual/HUF). Other contractors → 2%.

### Example 2

Example: Plant & Machinery rent of ₹5 lakhs paid. What is TDS rate u/s 194-I?

Answer: 2% on P&M (lower than 10% applicable for land/building).

⚠️ Common exam mistakes

  • Applying 10% for all 194J payments — FTS, non-prof, call centre, film royalty are at 2%
  • Using 10% for plant & machinery rent — special 2% rate applies
  • Forgetting to switch to 20% rate when payee has no PAN
Reference:
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