Budget 2026: Middle-Class Tax Relief Expected, Focus on Section 80D & New Regime

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for FY 2026-27 on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 11 am.
• Individual taxpayers anticipate announcements to lower tax burden, especially fine-tuning the new income tax regime and potential Section 80D inclusion.
• Expectations include boosting disposable incomes, revising tax slabs, increasing standard deduction (currently Rs 75,000), and simplifying capital gains taxation.
• Homebuyers seek higher deductions on housing loan interest, wider rent-related tax benefits, and a review of stamp duty.
• Senior citizens hope for improved tax treatment on interest income, pensions, health insurance premiums, and low-risk investments.

Why It Matters: Budget 2026 aims for middle-class tax relief, boosting consumption, and simplifying the new tax regime.