Section 115BBJ → Section 125
Tax on winnings from online games
Quick Answer
Section 115BBJ of the Income Tax Act, 1961 (Tax on winnings from online games) corresponds to Section 125 of the Income-tax Act, 2025, effective 1st April 2026. Status: Retained.
What changed for Section 115BBJ
Under the Income Tax Act, 1961, Section 115BBJ governs tax on winnings from online games. Taxes net winnings from online games at a flat 30%, calculated at the end of the financial year or at the time of withdrawal.
From 1st April 2026, the same subject sits at Section 125 of the Income-tax Act, 2025 — retained and renumbered as Section 125 of the Income-tax Act, 2025. Retained. Formula for calculating 'Net Winnings' strictly embedded in the TDS and charging algorithms.
For Section 115BBJ, the practical impact is rated Very High. Direct impact on the massive real-money gaming industry (Dream11, PokerBaazi, etc.).
Sec 115BBJ
Provision Summary
Taxes net winnings from online games at a flat 30%, calculated at the end of the financial year or at the time of withdrawal.
Sec 125
Provision Summary
Retained. Formula for calculating 'Net Winnings' strictly embedded in the TDS and charging algorithms.
Key Changes & Highlights
- No basic exemption limit applies. Every rupee of net winning is taxed.
Related Sections
Related Articles from the Tax Academy
creator economy
E-Sports Winnings Tax: A 30% Flat Rate Under India's New Tax Code 2025
A professional guide for YouTubers and Digital Creators on the 30% TDS on net winnings from e-sports and online gaming under the Income-tax Act, 2025. Learn how to calculate tax.
creator economy
E-Sports Tax Guide: 30% Tax on Net Winnings Explained (2025)
A professional guide for Indian YouTubers & creators on the new 30% tax and TDS on e-sports and online gaming net winnings under Section 115BBJ & 194BA.
creator economy
Section 194BA & Income-tax Act, 2025: A Guide for YouTubers
A professional compliance guide for creators on TDS for online gaming winnings under Section 194BA and the transition to the Income-tax Act, 2025. (Updated 2026)
creator economy
28% GST & 30% TDS on Online Gaming: A 2026 Guide for Creators
A professional guide for YouTubers & freelancers on the new 28% GST on deposits and 30% TDS on net winnings from online gaming in India. Expert analysis by a CA.
creator economy
Gaming TDS New Rules: A CA's Guide for YouTubers & Creators
Expert CA analysis on the new 30% TDS under Section 194BA & 115BBJ for online gaming winnings. Understand the impact on YouTubers, freelancers & e-sports pros.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Section 115BBJ of the Income Tax Act, 1961 about?
Section 115BBJ of the Income Tax Act, 1961 covers tax on winnings from online games. Taxes net winnings from online games at a flat 30%, calculated at the end of the financial year or at the time of withdrawal.
Which section replaces Section 115BBJ in the Income-tax Act, 2025?
Section 115BBJ of the Income Tax Act, 1961 maps to Section 125 of the Income-tax Act, 2025, effective 1st April 2026 (status: Retained). Retained. Formula for calculating 'Net Winnings' strictly embedded in the TDS and charging algorithms.
What is the impact of the change to Section 115BBJ under the new tax code?
The transition impact for Section 115BBJ is rated Very High. Direct impact on the massive real-money gaming industry (Dream11, PokerBaazi, etc.).
What should I watch out for when Section 115BBJ moves to the 2025 code?
No basic exemption limit applies. Every rupee of net winning is taxed. These points are specific to Section 115BBJ (Tax on winnings from online games).
Disclaimer: This mapping of Section 115BBJ (Tax on winnings from online games) to Section 125 of the Income-tax Act, 2025 is for educational and reference purposes only, based on publicly available drafts and circulars. As Section 115BBJ is currently marked Retained, always confirm its treatment with a qualified Chartered Accountant before filing or making compliance decisions.
Need professional help on Section 115BBJ?
Compare trusted providers — both offer CA services ready for the Income-tax Act, 2025.
*Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
Want to calculate tax on this section?