HRA Calculator
How much house rent allowance is exempt. Work out your HRA exemption using the three statutory tests, and see the taxable balance.
About the HRA Calculator
House Rent Allowance is only partly exempt from tax, and the exempt portion is the lowest of three separate tests - not simply the rent you pay. Many people over-claim by assuming the whole allowance is exempt, or under-claim by ignoring the rent-minus-10% rule. This calculator runs all three tests and shows which one binds. HRA exemption is available under the old regime only.
HRA exemption is the lowest of three
Exemption = min( actual HRA, rent paid - 10% of salary, 50% or 40% of salary )
- salary
- Basic pay plus dearness allowance
- 50%
- Applies for Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai
- 40%
- Applies for every other city
If rent paid is below 10% of salary, the second test turns negative and no exemption is available at all.
Using this calculator
- Enter your annual basic salary plus dearness allowance.
- Add the HRA component you receive and the rent you actually pay.
- Select whether you live in a metro city.
- Read the exemption and check which test produced it.
HRA Calculator FAQs
How is HRA exemption calculated?
It is the lowest of three amounts: the actual HRA received, rent paid minus 10% of basic salary plus DA, and 50% of that salary in metro cities or 40% elsewhere. Whichever test produces the smallest figure is your exemption.
Can I claim HRA under the new tax regime?
No. The HRA exemption under Section 10(13A) is available only under the old regime. If you claim substantial HRA, include it when comparing regimes, since it often makes the old regime cheaper overall.
Do I need my landlord's PAN?
Yes, if your annual rent exceeds Rs 1,00,000. Without the landlord's PAN your employer cannot allow the exemption in Form 16, though you may still be able to claim it while filing with adequate documentation.
Can I claim HRA while paying rent to a family member?
It is permitted if the arrangement is genuine - the relative must actually own the property, rent must be really paid, ideally by bank transfer, and they must declare it as income. Artificial arrangements are routinely disallowed.
Can I claim HRA and a home loan deduction together?
Yes, if the circumstances justify it, such as owning a house in one city while renting in another for work. Both claims must be independently substantiated, and claiming rent on a property you occupy yourself is not allowed.
What if I do not receive HRA in my salary?
Section 10(13A) does not apply, but you may be able to claim a deduction for rent paid under Section 80GG, subject to its own limits and conditions. That route is also unavailable under the new regime.
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Important: this calculator provides general information and arithmetic only. It is not personal financial, tax or investment advice. Projected returns are illustrations based on the rate you enter, not guarantees, and market-linked investments can fall in value. Verify current tax rates and scheme terms before acting, and consult a qualified adviser where the decision matters.