Take-Home Salary in India: CTC vs In-Hand Salary (₹5 Lakh to ₹20 Lakh)
One of the most common questions professionals ask when receiving a job offer is simple: “If my CTC is ₹X lakh, how much will I actually take home?”
Unfortunately, understanding your in-hand salary in India isn’t always straightforward. Between taxes, PF contributions, deductions, and the choice between Old and New Tax Regimes, take-home pay can vary even with the same gross CTC.
This guide gives you a clear, realistic comparison of CTC vs. take-home salary for annual packages ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹20 lakh, based on typical salary structures in India.
If you want to get a detailed estimate of your take-home salary in seconds, try this free Take-Home Salary Calculator for India.
CTC vs. Take-Home Salary (₹5 Lakh to ₹20 Lakh) - India FY 2025-26
| Annual CTC (₹ Lakh) | Approx. Annual In-Hand (₹ Lakh) | Monthly In-Hand (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4.0 – 4.2 | 33,000 – 35,000 |
| 6 | 4.8 – 5.0 | 40,000 – 42,000 |
| 7 | 5.6 – 5.8 | 47,000 – 49,000 |
| 8 | 6.2 – 6.5 | 51,000 – 54,000 |
| 9 | 7.0 – 7.3 | 58,000 – 61,000 |
| 10 | 7.4 – 7.8 | 61,000 – 65,000 |
| 11 | 8.0 – 8.4 | 66,000 – 70,000 |
| 12 | 8.8 – 9.2 | 73,000 – 76,000 |
| 13 | 9.6 – 10.0 | 80,000 – 83,000 |
| 14 | 10.2 – 10.7 | 85,000 – 90,000 |
| 15 | 10.8 – 11.4 | 90,000 – 95,000 |
| 16 | 11.5 – 12.2 | 96,000 – 1,02,000 |
| 17 | 12.2 – 13.0 | 1,02,000 – 1,08,000 |
| 18 | 13.0 – 13.8 | 1,08,000 – 1,15,000 |
| 19 | 13.7 – 14.6 | 1,14,000 – 1,21,000 |
| 20 | 14.5 – 15.5 | 1,20,000 – 1,30,000 |
Assumptions for This Table (Fixed for All Examples)
These take-home salary estimates are based on standard salary structures in India for FY 2025-26:
- EPF deduction is calculated based on standard assumptions.
- Standard Deduction of ₹50,000 is applied.
- HRA exemption for the Old Regime is estimated based on the user's location (Metro/Non-Metro) and an assumed salary structure.
- No housing loan or special exemptions are considered.
- Professional Tax is applied where applicable.
- Variable pay, bonuses, and ESOPs are excluded — this is for fixed salary only.
- The higher take-home value between the Old and New Regimes is generally shown.
- Tax slabs as per 2025-26 announced guidelines are used.
Disclaimer
This is for educational and illustrative purposes only. Your exact take-home salary will vary based on your employer’s specific CTC structure, your tax declarations, chosen exemptions, allowances, and city of residence.
For a powerful and personalized estimate, use a reliable salary calculator or consult with your HR or tax advisor.
Why Understanding Take-Home Salary Matters
When negotiating jobs or planning finances, it’s critical to look beyond CTC headlines. Focus on what truly reaches your account — your monthly in-hand salary.
Ready to Know Your Estimated Take-Home?
This article gives you general estimates. But your actual in-hand salary depends on your specific CTC, deductions, and tax regime choice.
Use our free tool to calculate it instantly:
➡️ Take-Home Salary Calculator for India
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is my take-home less than my CTC?
Because your CTC includes non-cash benefits and deductions like employer's PF contribution, gratuity, insurance, and taxes.
2. Does Old vs. New Tax Regime impact my take-home?
Yes. From ₹8L upwards, the New Regime often offers better take-home unless you have significant deductions like a housing loan or maxed-out 80C investments.
3. Are bonuses included in this table?
No. This only shows fixed monthly salaries, excluding performance bonuses or incentives.
4. How can I get a good estimate?
Use a detailed take-home salary calculator that factors in the tax regime, PF choices, and your location to provide a realistic breakdown.