Introduction

 Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, which provides deductions related to medical insurance premiums. This section encourages individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) to invest in health insurance policies

• Section 80D allows every individual or HUF to claim a deduction for medical insurance premiums paid during the financial year.
• This deduction is additional to the Rs 1.5 lakh limit claimed under Section 80C.
• It applies to both regular health insurance plans and top-up health plans
• Companies or firms cannot claim this deduction.

 

About Section 80D of the Income Tax Act?

Section 80D of the Income Tax Act provides deductions related to medical insurance premiums. Under Section 80D, individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) can claim a deduction for medical insurance premiums paid during the financial year. This deduction is also applicable to top-up health plans and critical illness plans. Section 80D Allowed Deduction for expenditure on the

• Medical insurance premiums
• Preventive health checkups
• Medical expenses for senior citizens
• Contribution to CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme) or any other notified scheme

 

Who is eligible to claim tax deductions under Section 80D?

Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, the following individuals are eligible to claim tax deductions related to medical insurance premiums and health-related expenses:

1. Individuals: Any individual, Paid for self, spouse, dependent children, or parents can claim deductions for the amount paid towards medical insurance premiums, medical expenditures, and preventive health checkups in a financial year.
2. Hindu Undivided Family (HUF): HUFs are also eligible for these deductions.

 

What is the maximum deduction that can be claimed under Section 80D?

The maximum deduction that can be claimed under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act depends on the following factors:

1. Individuals and Families:
   • If you are an individual or a member of a family, you can claim a deduction of up to ₹25,000 for the medical insurance premiums paid for yourself, your spouse, dependent children, or parents.
   • If any of the insured family members are senior citizens (aged 60 years or above), the maximum deduction increases to ₹50,000.
2. Preventive Health Checkups:
   • You can claim an additional deduction of up to ₹5,000 (cash payment allowed) for preventive health checkups for yourself, your spouse, dependent children, or parents.
3. Medical Expenses for Senior Citizens:
   • If you are a senior citizen (aged 60 years or above) and do not have any health insurance, you can claim a deduction of up to ₹50,000 on the medical expenses incurred.
4. Contribution to CGHS/Notified Scheme:
   • You can claim a deduction of up to ₹25,000 for contributions made to the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or any other notified health insurance scheme.

Example:

• Rohan, a taxpayer, pays health insurance premiums for himself and his father (a senior citizen).
• Premium paid on his policy: ₹25,000.
• Premium paid for his father: ₹50,000.
• Maximum deduction for Rohan:
  • For his policy: ₹25,000.
  • For his father’s policy: ₹50,000.
• Total maximum deduction claimed by Rohan under Section 80D: ₹75,000.

Remember that this deduction is over and above the ₹1.5 lakh limit claimed under Section 80C

 

Exclusions under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act

1. Default in Premium Payments: If you fail to pay the premium for your health insurance policy during a financial year, you may not be eligible for tax benefits under Section 80D.
2. Employer-Paid Premium: If your employer pays the premium for a group health insurance policy on your behalf, this amount is not eligible for deduction under Section 80D.
3. Premium for Working or Employed Children and Relatives: Premiums paid for health insurance covering working children, siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts, or other relatives are not eligible for tax benefits.
4. Cash Payments: If you make premium payments in cash, they are not considered for deductions under Section 80D.

 

Deduction Chart under section 80D

The following table captures the amount of deduction available to an individual taxpayer under various scenarios:

Expense/Scenario	Deduction Limit (FY 2024)
Medical insurance premiums paid for self, spouse, dependent children, or parents	Up to ₹25,000
Medical insurance premiums paid for family or senior citizen parents (60 years and above)	Up to ₹50,000
Preventive health check-ups (cash payment allowed)	Up to ₹5,000
Medical expenses for senior citizens (resident aged 60 years or above) without health insurance	Up to ₹50,000
Contribution to CGHS or any other notified scheme	Up to ₹25,000 (Note: Contributions on behalf of parents are not eligible for this deduction)

 

What is the difference between sections 80D, 80DD, 80DDB, and 80U?

Section	Deduction Purpose	Eligible Assessee	Maximum Deduction	Conditions
80D	Medical Insurance Premium and Preventive Health Check-up Expenses	Resident Individual & HUF	Varies based on premium paid	– Deduction for medical insurance premium and preventive health check-up expenses. – Maximum deduction depends on the premium paid.
80DD	Maintenance and Medical Treatment of Dependent with Disability	Resident Individual & HUF	– Rs. 75,000 (Normal disability) – Rs. 1,25,000 (Severe disability)	– Deduction allowed for expenses on medical treatment or maintenance of a dependent with disability. – Not allowed if dependent claims deduction under 80U.
80DDB	Medical Treatment of Specified Diseases	Resident Individual & HUF	– Actual expenses on treatment (or) – Rs. 40,000 (Normal patient) – Rs. 1,00,000 (Senior citizen patient)	– Expenditure on specified diseases. – Prescription from a specialist required. – Reduced by insurance reimbursements.
80U	Deduction for Person with Disability	Resident Individual	– Rs. 75,000 (Normal disability) – Rs. 1,25,000 (Severe disability)	– Certificate issued by a medical authority required.

 

What are the benefits of health Insurance

Section 80D of the Income Tax Act provides valuable benefits related to medical insurance. Let’s explore its advantages:

1. Reduced Taxable Income: Claiming deductions under Section 80D reduces your taxable income, leading to a lower tax liability. By investing in health insurance, you not only secure yourself financially during medical emergencies but also enjoy tax benefits.
2. Encouragement for Health Insurance: The section encourages individuals to invest in health insurance policies. Having adequate coverage ensures peace of mind and financial stability when faced with unforeseen medical costs.
3. Promotion of Preventive Healthcare: By availing of these deductions, you are motivated to prioritize preventive healthcare. Regular health checkups and early detection of illnesses contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Remember, maintaining good health is essential, and having health insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your well-being.

 

Factors to be considered before purchasing health insurance

When purchasing health insurance, there are several crucial factors to take into account. Let’s explore them:

1. Inclusions and Exclusions:
   • Understand the coverage provided by the health insurance plan (inclusions) and the conditions under which claims cannot be made (exclusions). Clarity on both aspects is essential to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and claim rejections.
2. Early Purchase:
   • It’s advisable to buy health insurance early in life. Waiting until later years may lead to higher premiums and limited coverage. Start now to secure comprehensive protection.
3. Choose the Right Insurer:
   • Research insurance companies thoroughly. Consider their claim processing speed, reputation, and customer reviews. Opt for a reliable insurer.
4. Waiting Period:
   • Be aware of the waiting period, especially for pre-existing conditions and maternity benefits. Waiting periods can vary from months to years, depending on the plan and insurer.
5. Policy Premium and Sum Insured:
   • Understand the premium amount you pay for the coverage. Higher coverage typically comes with a higher premium. Evaluate this balance carefully.
6. re-existing Conditions:
   • Consider any existing health conditions for yourself and your family members. Some policies cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period.
7. Network of Hospitals and Doctors:
   • Check if the insurer’s network includes hospitals and doctors you prefer. Access to quality healthcare providers is crucial.
8. Type of Plan:
   • Choose between individual plans, family floater plans, or critical illness plans based on your needs and family structure.

Remember, health insurance is a contract that provides financial support during medical emergencies. Make an informed decision to safeguard your well-being and that of your loved ones