Why a higher CTC doesn't always mean more take-home
When you move to a higher CTC, the incremental income is taxed at your marginal slab rate — not a flat average. If Offer B is ₹3 lakh more than Offer A and your income crosses into the 20% or 25% slab, roughly ₹60,000–₹75,000 of that increment goes to income tax. Add 4% cess and higher EPF contributions (12% of a larger basic), and the actual take-home difference is noticeably smaller than the CTC gap.
This calculator shows you the real numbers so you can weigh salary against other factors like job role, growth, location, and stability with accurate data.
What this comparison includes
- Income tax: Computed under the regime you select (new or old), using FY 2026-27 slabs with the standard deduction and Section 87A rebate applied.
- Employer EPF: 12% of basic (deducted from CTC to arrive at gross salary).
- Employee EPF: 12% of basic (deducted from gross before take-home).
- Professional tax: ₹2,400/year for TN, Maharashtra, Karnataka. ₹0 for Delhi, Haryana and most other states.
The comparison does not model HRA exemption, 80C investments, or other old-regime deductions — for that level of detail use our income tax calculator.
Frequently asked questions
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Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Does not model HRA exemption, 80C deductions, surcharge above ₹50L, or employer NPS. Use the income tax calculator for a full deductions analysis. Consult a tax professional for personalised advice.