Ever looked at your payslip and wondered where your money went? That quiet deduction marked as “TDS” often surprises more than it should. The good news? With a little planning, you can take back control—and even save more than you think.

What Is TDS & Why It Matters

But before diving deep to know more, we had better know what it is we are confronting.The Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is a regime under which a part of your earnings is deducted by the remitter even before your money gets into your account. Although it makes the collection of taxes easier by the government, it tends to put tax payers in disarray when it comes to the collection of their refunds or at worse they are not aware of the amount of money that they are losing.TDS applies to:

● Salaries

● Interest income

● Rent

● Commission and professional feesIgnoring TDS can result in excess payments or unnecessary refunds. Understanding it is your first win.

Think Ahead, Save Smart: The Power of Planning

Tax planning isn’t about last-minute panic in March. It's about being one step ahead—throughout the year.

Understand Your Tax Bracket

Your tax liability is directly linked to your income slab. Don’t assume your employer gets it right every time.

● Check your income projections quarterly

● Account for bonuses or freelance income

● Adjust your investment declarations if anything changes

Maximize Section 80C Smartly

Section 80C offers deductions up to ₹1.5 lakh. But are you using it well?Here’s where to direct your investments:

● EPF & PPF: Safe, long-term returns

● ELSS funds: Short lock-in, equity exposure

● NSC or 5-Year FD: For conservative savers

● Life insurance premium: But avoid overcommittingDon’t wait till February. Invest early. Let your TDS reflect those savings monthly.

Claim What’s Yours Under 80D & More

Health insurance doesn’t just protect—it saves tax.

● ₹25,000 deduction under Section 80D (₹50,000 for senior citizens)

● Preventive check-ups also qualify

● Add deductions from Section 24 (home loan interest), 80E (education loans), and 80G (donations)Keep records. Keep proof. These sections often go underutilized.

Submit Form 15G/15H When Applicable

If your total income is below taxable limits, TDS on interest income can be avoided.Use:

● Form 15G (for individuals below 60)

● Form 15H (for senior citizens)Submit it to your bank at the start of the financial year. It’s often forgotten, and missed opportunities pile up.

Salary Restructuring: Talk to HR

You can legally reduce TDS by smartly restructuring your salary components.Look for:

● Meal coupons or food allowances

● Mobile & internet reimbursements

● Leave Travel Allowance (LTA)

● Fuel or driver reimbursementsThese reduce your taxable salary. Many employers allow customisation—few employees ask.

Monitor Your TDS With Form 26AS

Don't wait for surprises at the end of the year.

● Check your Form 26AS quarterly

● Match it with what’s been deducted from your salary or income

● Flag mismatches early to avoid refund delaysA little vigilance can prevent a lot of pain.

Keep These in Mind While Filing Returns

When filing your ITR:

● Use the correct form

● Reconcile income from all sources

● Cross-check TDS deducted vs Form 26AS

● Avoid duplication in deduction claimsBeing proactive ensures you either get a refund—or don’t overpay in the first place.

Conclusion

TDS may seem automatic, but your tax savings don’t have to be passive. A little foresight, smart investments, and regular monitoring can keep more of your money where it belongs—with you. In the world of tax, those who plan ahead win by default.