Form 16 Explained: What It Is and How to Use It

Form 16 is the certificate your employer gives you showing the salary paid and tax deducted at source (TDS) during the financial year.

Two parts of Form 16

• Part A: TDS details, such as your employer’s and your PAN/TAN and the tax deposited with the government
• Part B: salary breakup, exemptions, deductions and the tax calculated

When do you get it?

Employers generally issue Form 16 by mid-June after the financial year ends. If you have not received it, ask your HR or accounts team.

How to use it for ITR

• Match the salary and TDS with your AIS and Form 26AS
• Add other income such as bank interest, which Form 16 may not show
• Claim deductions you have not declared to your employer
• Keep a copy for loan and visa applications

Form 16 vs Form 16A

Form 16A is the TDS certificate for non-salary payments, such as interest or professional fees. Form 16 is only for salary.

No Form 16?

You can still file using salary slips, bank statements and AIS. We can help you prepare the return.

This article is general information, not professional advice. Rules and limits change, so please confirm the current position or contact us.