Claiming 80G Benefits as an NRI
Navigate India's charitable donation deductions with ease.
The Quick Answer for NRIs:
YES, You Can!
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are indeed eligible to claim tax deductions under Section 80G for donations made to approved Indian charitable institutions. Your specific eligibility, however, hinges on a couple of key conditions, which our interactive checker will help you confirm.
Confirm Your Eligibility
Answer these quick questions to understand your standing for the 80G deduction.
The 80G deduction can only reduce your Indian taxable income (e.g., from property rent, capital gains, salary for Indian duties).
Your choice here is crucial, as 80G is not available in both regimes.
Your NRI 80G Donation Journey
Understanding how to make a qualifying donation, the varying deduction percentages, and the necessary documentation are key. This section simplifies each step.
Step 1: Adhering to Donation Rules
Indian Institutions Only
Your donation must be to a fund or institution registered and approved under Section 80G in India. Foreign charities don't qualify.
Monetary Contributions Only
Only donations of money (in INR) are eligible for deduction. Donations in kind (like goods or services) are not.
Payment Method & Limit
Cash donations are limited to ₹2,000. Larger amounts must be via cheque, bank transfer, UPI, or other digital methods for eligibility.
Step 2: How Much Can You Deduct?
Donations fall into four main categories, each offering a different percentage of deduction, some with limits based on your Adjusted Gross Total Income (AGTI). Explore them below.
Step 3: Essential Documents for Claiming
This is your primary proof. Ensure it clearly states:
- Your name and the donation amount
- Name, address, and PAN of the donee institution
- The institution's 80G Registration Number and its validity dates
- The mode of payment (e.g., cheque number, UPI transaction ID)
A certificate issued by the charitable institution, detailing your donation. This data is also filed with the Income Tax Department and helps in pre-filling your tax return.
This form is specifically required for donations qualifying for a 100% deduction towards scientific research or rural development. The donee institution will provide it.
Old vs. New Tax Regime: Your Choice Matters
The tax regime you choose significantly impacts your ability to claim 80G benefits. The new regime offers simplified lower rates but disallows most deductions. Compare them carefully.
| Feature | Old Tax Regime | New Tax Regime |
|---|---|---|
| 80G Deduction | ✅ Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Other Deductions (e.g., 80C) | Generally Available | Mostly Unavailable |
| Tax Slab Rates | Standard Rates (Potentially Higher) | Lower, Concessional Rates |
| Ideal For... | NRIs with significant deductions (charitable, investments, etc.) where savings from deductions outweigh higher slab rates. | NRIs with minimal deductions, prioritizing lower tax rates and simplified compliance. |