When shifting to a new company, the PF account under the previous company can be transferred to the new company. This way, the PF amount contributes to retirement planning. By withdrawing the PF amount while shifting jobs, the individual is liable for tax on the amount withdrawn.
The tax laws state that if the PF amount is retrieved before delivering 5 years of continuous service to the company, the amount will be added to the individual’s income for that year and normal tax rates will be applied.
Here are the common reasons where you must cross-check before handing over your income tax return (as published in ET Wealth on Feb 13, 2012):
- Ignoring income from investment in the name of spouse, kids.
- Ending life insurance policy before 3 years.
- Not including interest income in your tax return.
- Selling a house bought on loan within five years.
- Not including ornaments in wealth tax.
- Receiving gifts and cash from persons other than blood relatives.
- Not paying wealth tax on second house.
- Both spouses claiming tax benefit on same expenses.
- Taking benefit of basic exemption limit twice in a year.
