Form 10IE or Form 10IEA: Which Form Is Right for You?

Introduction

Taxpayers preparing to file returns for the financial year 2024–25 may be unsure about the difference between Form 10IE and Form 10IEA. Earlier, Form 10IE was used to opt for the new tax regime. However, Form 10IEA allows taxpayers to choose the old tax regime. Since the new tax regime became the default option from the financial year 2023–24 onwards, Form 10IE is no longer required. This article explains the key differences between Form 10IE and Form 10IEA to help you file your taxes smoothly. Make your ITR filing simple and hassle-free with the expert assistance of Auriga Accounting pvt. ltd.

Introduction to Tax Regimes in India

The Indian income tax system offers taxpayers the flexibility to choose between two tax regimes: the new tax regime and the old tax regime. Each regime differs in terms of tax slabs, deductions, and exemptions, making it important for taxpayers to evaluate which option best suits their financial situation.

New Tax Regime: Introduced in the Union Budget 2020, this regime provides lower tax rates but does away with most deductions and exemptions available under the old regime. From the financial year 2023–24 onwards, it has become the default tax regime.
Old Tax Regime: This regime follows higher tax rates but allows taxpayers to claim various deductions and exemptions, such as home loan interest, insurance premiums, and investments under Section 80C, which may significantly reduce taxable income.

Differences Between Form 10IE and Form 10IEA

The table below highlights the key differences between Form 10IE and Form 10IEA:

Sr. No.	Particulars	Form 10IE	Form 10IEA
1	Validity	Applicable up to Assessment Year (AY) 2022–23	Applicable from AY 2023–24 onwards
2	Purpose	To opt for or continue under the new tax regime	To opt out of the new regime and choose the old regime
3	Who needs to file?	Mandatory for all taxpayers opting for the new regime	Mandatory for business owners and professionals opting for the old regime
4	Due date	Before filing the ITR (generally July 31)	Before filing the ITR (generally July 31)
5	Filing method	Income Tax e-filing portal	Income Tax e-filing portal
6	Current applicability	Discontinued	Currently applicable
7	Information required	Details for opting into the new regime	Details for opting into the old regime, including deduction-related income details

Note: Since the new tax regime is now the default option, Form 10IE has been discontinued. Taxpayers who wish to opt out of the default regime must file Form 10IEA.

Should You Opt Out of the New (Default) Tax Regime?

Deciding whether to opt out of the new tax regime using Form 10IEA depends on your individual tax profile. Consider the following factors before making a choice:

Taxable income: If your income falls in lower tax slabs and you do not claim many deductions, the new regime may be beneficial. However, if you fall under higher slabs and claim substantial deductions, the old regime may result in lower tax liability.
Deductions and exemptions: Taxpayers with significant investments in ELSS, home loans, health insurance, or other eligible instruments may benefit more from the old regime.
Future income expectations: If you expect your income to rise significantly in the coming years, the new regime’s lower slab rates might be advantageous initially.

How to File Form 10IEA?

Form 10IEA must be filed electronically through the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal. The steps include:

Log in to the income tax e-filing portal using your credentials.
Navigate to the “e-File” section and select the relevant assessment year.
Choose “Income Tax Return” and select the applicable ITR form (ITR-3 or ITR-4).
During the return filing process, select the option to opt out of the new tax regime.
Submit Form 10IEA electronically along with your ITR.

Filing the correct form ensures compliance and helps you take advantage of the tax regime best suited to your financial goals.

About the Author

Dakesh

Dakesh breaks down complex legal regulations into clear, practical guidance, helping entrepreneurs remain compliant while building sustainable and scalable businesses.

February 17, 2026