New HRA Rules: Disclose Family Landlord Relationship from April 1

• New income tax rules from April 1 require salaried individuals claiming HRA under the old tax regime to report their relationship with family landlords.
• If annual rent paid to a landlord exceeds ₹1 lakh, Form 124 mandates disclosure of the relationship (spouse, parents, siblings, etc.).
• Taxpayers must provide the landlord's name, address, PAN, and relationship to ensure HRA claims for rent paid to relatives are genuine.
• Renting from relatives is still permitted if a valid rental agreement exists, rent is paid via bank transfers, and the landlord declares the income.
• Non-disclosure can lead to penalties of up to 200% of the evaded tax under Section 439 of the Income Tax Act, 2025.