Income Tax Loss Set-off and Carry Forward Provisions

Introduction: In the ancient land of India, renowned warrior Arjuna found himself perplexed by the complexities of income tax laws. Seeking guidance, he turned to his divine friend and mentor, Lord Krishna. In the serene setting of Kurukshetra, Krishna and Arjuna engaged in a conversation about income tax loss set-off and carry forward, aiming to unravel the intricate concepts for the benefit of all taxpayers.

Arjuna: O Lord Krishna, the intricacies of income tax laws confound me. I wish to understand the nuances of adjusting losses against taxable income.

Krishna: Arjuna, fear not. I shall guide you through the labyrinth of income tax provisions related to loss set-off and carry forward.

Intra-Head Adjustment: Krishna explained that intra-head adjustment allows taxpayers to set off losses from a specific source against income from the same head. For instance, loss from one business can be adjusted against profit from another business.

However, certain restrictions apply. Loss from speculative business cannot be set off against any other income except income from speculative business. Similarly, long-term capital loss cannot be adjusted against any income other than long-term capital gain, whereas short-term capital loss can be set off against long-term or short-term capital gain. Moreover, losses from specified businesses under section 35AD can only be adjusted against income from the same specified business.

Inter-Head Adjustment: Next, Krishna elucidated inter-head adjustment, wherein losses from one head of income can be adjusted against income from another head. For example, losses from house property can be adjusted against salary income.

Again, restrictions come into play. Loss from speculative business cannot be set off against income under any other head. Additionally, no loss can be adjusted against income from winnings in lotteries, races, card games, gambling, or betting.

Carry Forward of Unadjusted Loss: When Arjuna inquired about the fate of unadjusted losses, Krishna explained that such losses can be carried forward to subsequent years for adjustment against future incomes.

For business losses, the carry forward period is eight years, while for loss from the business of owning and maintaining race horses, the period is limited to four years.

Special Provisions: Krishna emphasized that certain special provisions govern loss carry forward in specific cases. For instance, when there is a change in the constitution of a partnership firm due to retirement or death of a partner, the share of loss attributable to the outgoing partner cannot be carried forward by the firm.

Similarly, companies not substantially owned by the public have restrictions on carrying forward losses after a change in shareholding. However, exemptions are provided in certain circumstances, such as eligible start-ups.

Conclusion: Arjuna, now enlightened by Lord Krishna’s wisdom, felt confident in understanding income tax loss set-off and carry forward. The complexities of the tax laws no longer weighed heavily upon him, and he was prepared to navigate the realm of taxation with clarity and knowledge.

In modern times, taxpayers can also seek guidance from knowledgeable experts or tax professionals to ensure compliance with the ever-evolving income tax laws. Just as Krishna guided Arjuna, one can find the right path to effectively manage losses and maximize tax benefits.