The much-publicised Rs 12 lakh tax-free benefit is real—but only for taxpayers with limited deductions. With FY 2025–26 underway, taxpayers across India are once again faced with a crucial decision—whether to continue with the traditional old tax regime or shift to the new regime under section 115BAC. The debate has gained fresh momentum this year, driven largely by the widely discussed claim that individuals can pay zero tax up to Rs 12 lakh under the new regime. While this