Section 68 → Section 86
Cash credits
Quick Answer
Section 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 (Cash credits) corresponds to Section 86 of the Income-tax Act, 2025, effective 1st April 2026. Status: Retained.
What changed for Section 68
In the 1961 statute, Section 68 deals with cash credits. Any sum found credited in the books for which no satisfactory explanation is offered is taxed as unexplained cash credit.
From 1st April 2026, the same subject sits at Section 86 of the Income-tax Act, 2025 — retained and renumbered as Section 86 of the Income-tax Act, 2025. Retained and tightened. The onus of proving the source of funds, as well as the 'source of the source' (for share capital/premium), lies entirely on the assessee.
For Section 68, the practical impact is rated Critical. Primary weapon against shell companies and black money.
Sec 68
Provision Summary
Any sum found credited in the books for which no satisfactory explanation is offered is taxed as unexplained cash credit.
Sec 86
Provision Summary
Retained and tightened. The onus of proving the source of funds, as well as the 'source of the source' (for share capital/premium), lies entirely on the assessee.
Key Changes & Highlights
- Taxed at an exorbitant flat rate (Section 115BBE) with no basic exemption limit or deductions allowed.
Related Sections
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Section 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 about?
Section 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 covers cash credits. Any sum found credited in the books for which no satisfactory explanation is offered is taxed as unexplained cash credit.
Which section replaces Section 68 in the Income-tax Act, 2025?
Section 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 maps to Section 86 of the Income-tax Act, 2025, effective 1st April 2026 (status: Retained). Retained and tightened. The onus of proving the source of funds, as well as the 'source of the source' (for share capital/premium), lies entirely on the assessee.
What is the impact of the change to Section 68 under the new tax code?
The transition impact for Section 68 is rated Critical. Primary weapon against shell companies and black money.
What should I watch out for when Section 68 moves to the 2025 code?
Taxed at an exorbitant flat rate (Section 115BBE) with no basic exemption limit or deductions allowed. These points are specific to Section 68 (Cash credits).
Disclaimer: This mapping of Section 68 (Cash credits) to Section 86 of the Income-tax Act, 2025 is for educational and reference purposes only, based on publicly available drafts and circulars. As Section 68 is currently marked Retained, always confirm its treatment with a qualified Chartered Accountant before filing or making compliance decisions.
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