What a translator pays at different income levels for TY 2026-27, which expenses count, and how TDS, GST and presumptive tax apply.
Quick answer
A translator with ₹5.5 lakh of yearly receipts and about 10% in business expenses pays roughly ₹0 in income tax for TY 2026-27 under the better regime: about 0.0% of receipts. Income is taxed as business or professional income at slab rates.
| Early career | Established | Top earner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yearly receipts | ₹2,00,000 | ₹5,50,000 | ₹15,00,000 |
| Expenses (~10%) | ₹20,000 | ₹55,000 | ₹1,50,000 |
| Tax: new regime | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹85,800 |
| Tax: old regime (no deductions) | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹2,26,200 |
| Tax with presumptive (58) | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| GST registration | Not yet | Not yet | Not yet |
Estimates for Tax Year 2026-27 · Income-tax Act, 2025. Residents, no other income or deductions. Presumptive column uses section 58.
Calculate your own taxUsually 44AD, not 44ADA
Translation is not a specified profession for 44ADA. 44AD or regular books are common. Confirm with a CA.
Compare presumptive vs actualIndian agencies may deduct 10% u/s 194J or 1–2% u/s 194C.
Translation for foreign clients is export of services. Register once turnover crosses ₹20 lakh.
Only with regular books, not under presumptive taxation.
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