False statement in verification, etc.
[Section-482 as per the Income Tax Act, 2025 (this Act) w.e.f. 1st April, 2026.]
If a person makes a statement in any verification under this Act or under any rule made thereunder, or delivers an account or statement which is false, and which he either knows or believes to be false, or does not believe to be true, he shall be punishable,—
- (a) in a case, where the amount of tax, which would have been evaded if the statement or account had been accepted as true, exceeds twenty-five lakh rupees, with rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to seven years and shall also be liable to fine;
- (b) in any other case, with rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than three months but which may extend to two years and shall also be liable to fine.
FAQs on Section 482 of Income Tax Act 2025
What does Section 482 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 deal with?
Section 482 deals with punishment for making a false statement in any verification under the Act or rules, or delivering a false account or statement knowingly or without belief in its truth.
What are the consequences if the false statement involves potential tax evasion exceeding ₹25 lakh?
If the tax evaded would have exceeded ₹25 lakh, the punishment is rigorous imprisonment of not less than six months and up to seven years, along with a fine.
What is the punishment for making a false statement if the evaded tax is ₹25 lakh or less?
The punishment is rigorous imprisonment of not less than three months and up to two years, along with a fine.
Does the person need to knowingly make a false statement to be punished under this section?
Yes, the person must either know or believe the statement to be false, or not believe it to be true.
Is this section applicable only to statements made during verification?
No, it also applies to any account or statement delivered under the Act or its rules, not just during verification.
Does Section 482 require actual tax evasion to occur for punishment to apply?
No, punishment applies even if the statement is false and could have resulted in tax evasion, regardless of whether evasion occurred.
Can both imprisonment and fine be imposed under Section 482?
Yes, both imprisonment and a fine are mandatory under this section upon conviction.
Is there a minimum term of imprisonment under Section 482?
Yes, the minimum is three months in general cases and six months if the evaded tax exceeds ₹25 lakh.
Does the section mention any exceptions or defenses?
No exceptions or specific defenses are mentioned within the text of Section 482.
Is mens rea (guilty mind) required for punishment under Section 482?
Yes, the person must have knowingly or recklessly made a false statement or delivered a false account or statement.
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