Who pays and when
| Instalment | Due date | Cumulative share of estimated tax |
|---|---|---|
| First | By 15 June | 15% |
| Second | By 15 September | 45% |
| Third | By 15 December | 75% |
| Fourth | By 15 March | 100% |
The instalments are of estimated tax for the year after subtracting TDS and previous instalments. The trigger is a ₹10,000 minimum, with the age-60 exemption noted in the FAQ below. Late instalments carry interest per period, which is why voluntary payers estimate quarterly.
How an estimate becomes instalments
- Estimate the year’s income and tax — the income tax calculator gives the total liability under whichever regime applies.
- Subtract the TDS already looming from Form 26AS or payslip projections.
- Apply the instalment table to the remaining balance as the quarters pass.
- Re-estimate when events move the figure — a bonus, a capital-gains sale, or a deduction you stop claiming.
Frequently asked questions
Do salaried people pay advance tax?
Usually not: TDS from salary settles the liability through the year. Advance tax matters when TDS does not cover everything — interest income, capital gains, rent, or business income the employer knows nothing about.
Who must pay advance tax?
Anyone whose estimated tax after adjust of TDS exceeds ₹10,000 for the year. Residents aged 60 and over with no business income are exempt even above ₹10,000.
What are the instalment dates?
The year splits into four instalments: 15% of estimated tax by 15 June, 45% cumulative by 15 September, 75% cumulative by 15 December, and 100% by 15 March. The 44AD/44ADA presumptive businesses pay the whole amount by 15 March.
What happens if I miss an instalment?
Interest under section 234B and 234C runs on the shortfall by period and percentage. This calculator's phase-1 estimate shows the liability only; the paid-tax reconciliation (balance payable or refund due) is planned.
How does paid tax change my liability?
TDS, advance tax and self-assessment tax all reduce the balance at the time of filing. The liability the calculator prints is the gross liability for the year; compare it with Form 26AS to see whether you are prepaid or underpaid.