US Social Security Taxation for NRIs Returning to India

An NRI must understand how US Social Security benefits are taxed in India, particularly those who are seeking to return to India and change into a new residency status. In this blog, we will walk you through everything you must know about the taxation of US Social Security benefits for returning NRIs. Additionally, we will learn about the India-US DTAA and effective tax strategies to help you stay compliant.

How Does Residency Status Impact Taxation?

Your tax liability is determined based on your residential status in India under the Indian Income Tax Act, 1961. The three primary categories of residency are as follows:

Resident and Ordinarily Resident (ROR)

For individuals with ROR status, global income, including US Social Security benefits, is taxable in India under the "Income from Other Sources" category. There are no specific tax exemptions for social security benefits under the Indian tax law, meaning the entire amount will be taxed.

Non-Resident (NR) and Resident but Not Ordinarily Resident (RNOR)

• Tax-Exempt in India: Under the NR or RNOR status, your US Social Security Income is generally not subject to taxation in India, provided it's acquired outside India.
• Not Liable for Reporting: You don't need to report the income held in US accounts in your Indian tax filings.

Some Main Exceptions

If the amount for social security benefits is credited directly into an Indian bank account, like NRE, NRO, or resident savings. Then, the amount becomes taxable in India. You must plan the receipt mode to prevent any unintended tax liabilities

India-US DTAA Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement

Under the India-US DTAA, taxpayers can avail relief from a significant tax amount:

• Residency Certificate: The DTAA's "tiebreaker rules" can be used by dual residents to determine their residency. Aligning residency with the US under the DTAA will help you ensure that the benefits remain tax-free in India.
• Exclusive US Taxation for Social Security: Under Article 20(2) of the DTAA, US Social Security benefits received by either Indian residents or US citizens will be taxed only in the United States.

Key Strategies for NRI Receiving US Social Security Income

If you are an NRI receiving US Social Security income, here are some strategies that you must consider:

• Claim Relief Under DTAA: Ensure accurate reporting under DTAA provisions to reduce your tax liability.
• Avoid Direct Deposits in Indian Accounts: Benefits deposited directly into an NRO, NRE, or resident accounts become taxable in India.
• Hold Funds in the US: Keep your Social Security benefits in a US account and transfer funds to India when required. Remittances are not taxed in India.

How to File Tax Returns in India?

Follow the steps below if you are an ROR and need to report US Social Security benefits:

• Choose the Accurate ITR Form: Use ITR-2 or ITR-3, as ITR-1 doesn't support the reporting of foreign income.
• Fill Out the Main Schedules:
  • Schedule OS: Report Social Security benefits and mention Article 20(2) of the DTAA to avail the exemptions.
  • Schedule FSI: Report foreign income and taxes paid in the U.S. If the income is exempt under the DTAA, mention taxable income in India as "nil".
  • Schedule EI: Under DTAA provisions, categorize exempt income.

The Bottom Line

If you are an NRI returning to India, you need to understand the tax implications of US Social Security benefits in India to stay compliant. You need to understand DTAA also to claim tax benefits and reduce a significant tax amount. Additionally, ensure to report the US social security benefits in the correct ITR form, which is ITR-2 or ITR-3.

Furthermore, if you need more assistance with navigating taxation for US social security benefits, understanding DTAA, or tax compliance for NRIs. Then, contact the experts at Savetaxs. We have a team of experts with years of experience in this field. They will offer personalized guidance to ensure you stay compliant while returning to India and make this transition easier. Contact us whenever needed, as we are working 24*7 across all time zones.