Tag: finance

How Do Loan Apps Help to Make Money Online?

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Loan apps have emerged as a significant force in the fintech industry, offering convenient access to quick cash loans through mobile applications. Loan apps are mobile applications that allow users to borrow money quickly and conveniently using their smartphones. These legit earning app typically offer small, short-term loans with minimal documentation requirements and fast approval processes. The loans are often disbursed directly to the user’s bank account or mobile wallet, making them accessible to individuals, including those without access to traditional banking services.

Interest and Fees

One of the primary ways loan apps make money online is through the interest and fees charged on the loans they provide. These loans often come with high interest rates and additional fees, such as processing fees or late payment penalties. While the convenience and accessibility of these loans appeal to users in quick cash, the cost of borrowing can be substantial, resulting in significant profits for the loan app providers.

Volume of Transactions

Loan apps benefit from a high volume of transactions due to the large user base and frequent borrowing activity. With millions of users accessing these apps to borrow money for various purposes, the cumulative effect of numerous small loans adds to substantial revenue for the providers. The ease of use and instant approval processes encourage users to borrow repeatedly, contributing to the app’s revenue stream.

Cross-Selling and Up-Selling

Many loan apps employ cross-selling and up-selling strategies to maximise their revenue potential. In addition to offering loans, these legit earning app may promote other financial products and services, such as insurance, investment opportunities, or credit monitoring tools. By leveraging user data and behavioural patterns, loan app providers can target personalised offers to users, increasing the likelihood of additional purchases and generating income streams.

Advertising and Partnerships

Loan apps often monetize their platforms through advertising and partnerships with third-party companies. They may display targeted ads within the app interface or collaborate with other businesses to promote their products or services to app users. These advertising arrangements generate revenue for the loan app providers through ad impressions, clicks, or lead generation, while also providing additional value to users through access to relevant offers and discounts.

Data Monetization

Another lucrative aspect of loan apps is the monetization of user data. This data is valuable to advertisers, marketers, and financial institutions seeking insights into consumer behaviour and preferences. Loan app providers may anonymize and aggregate user data before selling it to third parties or leveraging it for targeted marketing campaigns, creating an additional revenue stream.

Referral Programs

Many loan apps incentivize users to refer friends, family, or acquaintances to the platform through referral programs. Users are rewarded with cash bonuses, discounts, or other incentives for each successful referral that results in a loan application or funding. Referral programs help loan apps attract new users but encourage existing users to remain active and engaged with the platform, ultimately driving revenue growth through increased loan volume and user acquisition.

Risk Management and Loan Recovery

While not directly a source of revenue, effective risk management and loan recovery strategies are crucial for the long-term sustainability and profitability of loan apps. These apps invest in advanced algorithms, machine learning models, and data analytics tools to assess the creditworthiness of applicants and mitigate the risk of defaults and delinquencies. By minimising losses associated with non-performing loans, loan app providers safeguard their revenue streams and maintain the confidence of investors and stakeholders.

Regulatory Considerations

Compliance with applicable laws and regulations is crucial to avoid fines, penalties, or reputational damage that could impact the app’s revenue and viability in the long run. Adhering to ethical business practices and prioritising customer satisfaction is essential for building trust and maintaining a positive reputation in the market.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Real Estate License in South Carolina

Daily writing prompt
What place in the world do you never want to visit? Why?
View all responses

As an aspiring real estate salesperson in South Carolina, you need to start working towards getting your real estate license. While obtaining a real estate license in South Carolina can seem like a daunting process, you can navigate through it smoothly if you have the right information and carefully follow the required steps. Once you have your South Carolina real estate license, you will have set yourself on a path to building an exciting and prosperous career in the real estate industry. 

Photo by Binyamin Mellish on Pexels.com

In this article, we will explore how to get a real estate license in SC to allow you to have an easy route on the journey toward becoming a properly licensed real estate salesperson. 

Fulfill the basic requirements

Before you embark on pursuing your real estate license in SC, you need to ensure you meet the following pre-requisites:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or an equivalent 
  • Be a US citizen or a legally admitted alien
  • Have a social security card

Complete the pre-licensing education

Your journey to getting your real estate license starts with enrolling in an accredited real estate course. The South Carolina Real Estate Commission requires all aspiring real estate salespersons to complete 90-hour pre-licensing education and this must be provided by an approved institution. 

Fortunately, you have a choice between studying in person or taking online real estate courses. There are several real estate schools offering accredited courses. You can check out RealEstateU, one of the best online real estate course providers in the country, as you consider the real estate schools you can study with.

Apply to sit for the South Carolina real estate exam

After completing your coursework for the pre-licensing education, you are eligible to apply to sit your real estate state exam. You can submit your exam application online or by mail. You must fill in all the needed information correctly and submit all the needed documents, and pay the required fee.

Schedule your state exam with PSI 

The South Carolina Real Estate Commission has appointed PSI as the exam provider so you must schedule and attempt your South Carolina Real Estate State Exam through PSI Services. You can schedule the exam either online or via phone.

Pass the SC real estate state exam

Having scheduled your state licensing exam, the next hurdle is to sit and pass the exam. The exam has two portions—the national and state portions, and you have to score 80% in each to pass the overall exam. The exam results are issued at the testing center immediately after completing the exam. It is crucial you prepare adequately and get to the exam center in good time.

Undergo the background and fingerprint check

You need it submit 3 criminal background checks—two fingerprint checks (state and national) and a social security number-based check.  The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) conducts the state fingerprint-based criminal background check, while the FBI conducts the national one. The SR&I is the one approved by the commission to conduct the social security number-based criminal check.

Find a sponsoring broker

It is mandatory to get a licensed real estate broker in South Carolina who will sponsor you so you can work as a real estate salesperson in the state.

Submit your application for the South Carolina real estate license

You will receive the initial salesperson application form for your SC real estate license from PSI once you pass your state exam. Fill in the form correctly and submit all the relevant supporting documents and pay the set fee to complete your license application. After the South Carolina Real Estate Commission approves your license application, they will issue it and mail it to your sponsoring broker. 

Conclusion

Obtaining your real estate license in South Carolina doesn’t have to be a daunting process if you know how to go about it. Follow the above steps and you will have your license in no time and embark on a successful real estate career in the state. 

Two Wheels, One Decision: A Guide to Personal Loan for Bike

Owning a bike offers freedom, convenience, and an exciting way to explore. But when finances don’t quite match your aspirations, personal loan for bike can bridge the gap. 

Photo by Khalil Ahmad Mazari on Pexels.com

Who Qualifies for a Personal Loan for Bike?

  • Stable Income: Lenders assess your ability to repay based on your income, typically requiring a minimum monthly income and stable employment history.
  • Good Credit Score: A healthy credit score (usually above 700) increases your chances of approval and potentially secures lower interest rates.
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Maintain a manageable DTI (ideally below 50%) to demonstrate responsible debt management.
  • Citizenship and Age: Most lenders require proof of citizenship and minimum age requirements (usually 18 or 21).

Building Credit Muscle

  • Timely Payments: Prioritize on-time payments for bills, credit cards, and existing loans. Even minor delinquencies can significantly impact your credit score.
  • Manage Credit Cards Wisely: Utilize credit cards responsibly, maintaining low balances, avoiding exceeding credit limits, and utilization rate below 30%
  • Debt Consolidation: If you have multiple high-interest debts, consolidating them into a single loan with a lower interest rate can improve your credit score and debt-to-income ratio (DTI).
  • Dispute Errors: Review your credit report regularly and dispute any inaccuracies that might be negatively impacting your score.

Finding the Best Lending Fit

  • Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first offer. Compare interest rates, loan terms, processing fees, and prepayment penalties across various lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
  • Utilize Online Tools: Several online platforms allow you to compare loan options and pre-qualify without impacting your credit score. 
  • Leverage Existing Relationships: If you have a good banking relationship, inquire about their bike loan offerings. Existing customers often receive more favourable terms and faster processing times.

The Power of Partnerships

  • Consider Co-Signing: If your individual financial profile falls short, partnering with a co-signer with a strong credit history and income can significantly improve your chances of approval. Choose a co-signer responsibly, understanding their potential financial liabilities if you miss payments.
  • Explore Guarantor Options: Some lenders offer guarantor options where a close relative or friend guarantees the loan without being directly responsible for repayments. This can be an alternative to co-signing.

Responsible Borrowing for a Smooth Ride

Remember, securing a bike loan is just the first step. Responsible borrowing ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey:

  • Stick to Your Repayment Plan: Consistent and timely payments are crucial for maintaining a good credit score and avoiding late fees.
  • Monitor Your Credit: Continue to monitor your credit score and take corrective actions if necessary. Responsible loan management can positively impact your future financial endeavours.
  • Enjoy the Ride! Once approved, celebrate your achievement and enjoy the freedom and convenience your new bike brings. But remember, ride responsibly and prioritize safety above all.

By understanding the intricacies of personal loan for bike, you can make informed decisions that fuel your journey towards your dream ride. Remember, responsible borrowing ensures a smooth ride both on the road and in your financial future. 

How to Customize a Promissory Note Template in Microsoft Word

Promissory notes serve as legally binding documents outlining the terms of a loan agreement between a lender and a borrower. While there are various templates available, customizing a promissory note template in Microsoft Word allows for flexibility and personalization. This guide will walk you through the process of customizing a promissory note template in Microsoft Word to suit your specific needs.

I. Selecting the Right Template

A. Finding a Suitable Promissory Note Template in Word

Begin by locating a suitable promissory note template. You can find templates within Word’s template library or download them from reputable online sources. Look for templates that adhere to legal standards and include essential sections such as identification of parties, loan amount, payment terms, and interest rates.

II. Modifying Template Layout and Design

A. Adjusting Margins, Fonts, and Spacing

Once you’ve selected a template, customize the layout and design to meet your preferences. Adjust margins, fonts, and spacing to enhance readability and visual appeal. Consider using a professional font style and appropriate font size for clarity.

B. Adding or Removing Design Elements

Depending on your preferences, you may choose to add or remove design elements from the template. This could include adding a logo or removing unnecessary graphics to streamline the document’s appearance.

III. Inputting and Editing Text

A. Filling in Required Information (Parties, Loan Amount, etc.)

When customizing a promissory note template in Microsoft Word, the first step is to input all necessary information accurately. This includes identifying the parties involved in the loan agreement, such as the lender and borrower, by providing their full legal names, addresses, and contact information. Additionally, specify the loan amount and the terms of repayment, including the total loan amount, the frequency of payments, and the due dates for each installment.

Ensure that all information is entered correctly to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes later on. Double-check the accuracy of names, addresses, and financial details before finalizing the document.

B. Editing Text for Clarity and Precision

After inputting the required information, it’s essential to edit the text of the promissory note for clarity and precision. Use clear and concise language to outline the terms of the loan agreement, avoiding ambiguity or complex legal jargon that may be difficult for parties to understand.

Pay attention to the wording of each clause and ensure that it accurately reflects the intentions of both parties. Review the document from the perspective of both the lender and the borrower to ensure that all terms are clear and easily understood by all parties involved.

C. Ensuring Legal Terminology is Accurate

In customizing a promissory note template, it’s crucial to ensure that all legal terminology used in the document is accurate and complies with relevant laws and regulations. Verify that the language used in the promissory note template aligns with legal standards and conventions applicable to loan agreements in your jurisdiction.

If necessary, consult legal counsel to review the document and ensure that it meets all necessary legal requirements. Legal advice can help identify any potential issues or discrepancies in the document’s language and provide recommendations for addressing them to ensure the enforceability of the promissory note.

By inputting and editing text carefully, including all required information accurately, and ensuring that legal terminology is precise and compliant with relevant laws, you can customize a promissory note template in Microsoft Word effectively and create a legally binding document that accurately reflects the terms of the loan agreement.

IV. Incorporating Specific Loan Terms

A. Customizing Payment Terms and Schedules

Customizing payment terms and schedules in a promissory note template allows parties to tailor the repayment structure to their specific agreement. When customizing payment terms, specify the frequency of payments (e.g., monthly, quarterly), the amount of each installment, and the due dates for payments. This section should also outline any grace periods for late payments and specify the consequences of defaulting on payments.

When customizing payment schedules, consider factors such as the borrower’s financial situation, income sources, and ability to make timely payments. Flexibility in payment terms can help ensure that the borrower can fulfill their repayment obligations without undue financial strain.

B. Adjusting Interest Rates and Penalties

The promissory note template should allow parties to adjust interest rates and penalties to reflect the terms of their loan agreement accurately. When adjusting interest rates, specify whether the rate is fixed or variable and outline how it will be calculated (e.g., simple interest, compound interest). Additionally, include provisions for any penalties or fees for late payments or defaults, ensuring that they are reasonable and compliant with legal requirements.

Adjusting interest rates and penalties should take into account factors such as market conditions, the borrower’s creditworthiness, and the lender’s risk tolerance. By customizing these terms, parties can establish a fair and mutually beneficial arrangement that incentivizes timely repayment while protecting the lender’s interests.

C. Adding Clauses for Security or Collateral

Incorporating clauses for security or collateral in the promissory note template provides added assurance for the lender in case of default by the borrower. When adding clauses for security or collateral, specify the type of collateral being offered (e.g., real estate, vehicles) and outline the procedures for seizing and liquidating collateral in the event of default.

Consider factors such as the value and marketability of the collateral when adding these clauses to ensure that they provide adequate protection for the lender. Additionally, include provisions for notifying the borrower in case of default and allowing them an opportunity to cure the default before taking action against the collateral.

By customizing payment terms and schedules, adjusting interest rates and penalties, and adding clauses for security or collateral, parties can create a promissory note template that accurately reflects the specific terms of their loan agreement and provides clarity and protection for both parties involved.

In conclusion, customizing a promissory note template in Microsoft Word allows for personalized loan agreements tailored to specific needs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a legally binding document that accurately reflects the terms of the loan agreement between the lender and the borrower. With attention to detail and accuracy, a customized promissory note template ensures compliance with legal requirements and provides clarity and protection for all parties involved.

The Future of Banking: Fintech or High-tech Finance?

Technology has changed almost every aspect of our lives, and finance is no exception. Tech giants are rolling out new solutions to improve customer service and simplify financial transactions. People have made a smooth transition from traditional to digital banking thanks to technology. We all use apps to manage our finances and have almost forgotten how it used to be. Even money has gone digital. Despite the similarities, fintech and techfin finance are different concepts.

So it is worth separating the concepts – FinTech and High-tech finance – and finding their differences and perspectives.

Financial technologies

The financial industry uses technology to provide high-quality services, increase financial profits and reduce costs. The most common example of fintech is the online banking applications offered by most banks. Fintech includes neo-banks popular in the US and Europe and well-known companies such as PayPal and Venmo. These services simplify the process of managing our money and are used by almost everyone.

Financial technologies in Glasgow car hire services

Fintech, like Al, adapts to automated customer service technology. To improve its services, fintech focuses on the following details:

  • Use of chatbots.
  • Artificial intelligence interfaces
  • Helping clients in performing basic tasks.
  • Reduction of personnel costs.

“Learning” apps learn about user habits that are often hidden from themselves and engage users in learning games to improve their automatic, unconscious spending and saving decisions.

If you are going to use Avis car hire at Glasgow Airport, you can pay for the service using online banking. This type of transfer is very comfortable, as you can choose the route and stop times yourself. You can independently select the model and class of the car, its capacity, type of gearbox.

To rent, you need to have the following:

  • Printed voucher.
  • International driver’s license.
  • Original national identity card.
  • An identity card with a photo.
  • Credit card.

High-tech finance

Techfin is rarely mentioned because the concept has only recently emerged. High-tech refers to a technology company that, along with its core technology-based products, additionally offers financial services. At the same time, the company works on improving financial products to make them as convenient as possible for the end user.

Google, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Uber are well-known examples of technology financing. These are well-known IT companies that at some stage decided to launch financial services. For example, Apple launched Apple Pay, which is the leader in the global trend of contactless payments.

Now that millions of people around the world use Apple’s payment system, this option is available on many sites and applications. Another example of technology is Facebook, which announced the launch of its digital currency, Libra. Currency can be used to pay for goods and services and is also useful for travelers as they do not need to exchange currency abroad.

Uber launched a new Uber Money service a few years ago. The service allows drivers and passengers to issue debit or credit cards. Such services help to track expenses for car hire possibilities or to get cashback on gasoline.

The future of banking

As you can see, the difference between fintech and tech companies is clear. The former seeks to improve the tools available to the financial sector, while the latter seeks to take full advantage of the latest technologies, creating alternatives to traditional financial services.

Advantages of fintech companies include:

  • Large databases.
  • Technological capabilities.
  • Flexibility and customer loyalty to the brand.
  • Allow competing with financial companies, including banks.

While tech giants are often eager to partner with banks, digital services need to be proactive. They develop and make efforts to increase customer loyalty.

8 Online Business Ideas That Generate Sustainable Revenue

With more people trying to make money online, thousands of articles give advice on how you can generate some cash in the digital world. No wonder there are so many online business ideas out there!

1. Self-publish Books  

No one cares whether your book is self-published or published by a traditional publisher. The quality of your book is what matters. One of the most successful books in recent years is Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. He received some offers from publishers but decided to publish the book by himself. That way he owns all the rights.

And today, everyone can do that too. You can do the whole process yourself, or you can hire people to do it for you like David Goggins. You can even hire a ghost-writer.

2. Create An App  

Until just a few years ago, it would’ve been unimaginable to sleep in other people’s homes on a regular basis for cheaper accommodation. Yet, as Airbnb has shown in the travel and hospitality market, this concept has now become the norm. All these transactions are done with the app. 

But that doesn’t mean you need to create the next big-time app like Airbnb or Uber. Even without knowing how to code, anyone can build an app. There’s a list of no-code app-makers you can use online to do this.

The most important part of an app is your business model. Too often, we see apps that are great but don’t have a business plan.

3. Sell Other People’s Products  

Don’t want to build your own products? Then sell existing products, also known as affiliate marketing. It sometimes gets a bad rep but it’s a solid business model.

The best platform for this strategy is a website (or multiple sites). 

Once you have a website, you can start creating content that attracts people who are interested in the products you’re offering.

4. Create An Online Course  

I’m a big fan of Peter Drucker’s advice of focusing on your strengths so you can provide more value. This is about leveraging your knowledge, experience, and expertise for the benefit of other people. Maybe you’ve been training for a long time and you’re ready to become a fitness coach. Or you’ve been teaching history, and now can teach people how to adapt well to changes based on historical lessons.

We always want to learn. The popularity of online courses shows that there is great demand. And it’s easier than ever to sell a course. With the right tools, you are able to save time, maximize your efforts, and create courses that students can easily consume.

5. Start A Paid Newsletter  

One of the leading examples of a paid newsletter is Ben Thompson’s “Stratechery.” He popularized this digital product and he’s now generating millions of dollars. 

But you and I don’t need to become the next Ben Thompson. If you can generate a small but loyal following that’s willing to pay, you can make a good living with a newsletter.

In terms of technology, there are many solutions you can use. I’ve seen people using Substack.

6. Build An Online Community  

Most digital entrepreneurs work from home, so they barely interact with new people (often, just clients) on a daily basis. It can be a lonely pursuit.

The Sounding Board—a facilitated community where like-minded people can join, share their goals, insights, and even test their business ideas before implementing them. It’s a safe space for anyone in need of motivation and honest insights. But you can create a community around any topic.

7. Start A Coaching Program  

With the recent global crisis, more people are switching their offline activities (like being coached by a trainer in a gym) into digital programs. Now, you can have your trainer right there with you at home through your smartphone or laptop. 

This isn’t limited to fitness coaches. You can do nearly every type of 1-on-1 coaching over Zoom or Skype. Again, it’s all about what you’re good at. People want to pay for expertise. With enough experience, you can gradually expand to group coaching and booking multiple sessions. 

8. Build A Freelance Practice  

Yes, it’s easy to get on those freelancing sites, but you’re not building anything for yourself. Plus, you’ll be pitching to prospects all the time. You might as well use that time to build your own site, with your own rules.

The problem with freelance sites is that they lock you into a cycle of looking for clients and pitching to them. Many of the jobs offered are also one-time projects that pay lesser. These tactics may get you a handful of small clients at first, but you won’t build a loyal customer-base doing that. 

Building your own site, publishing your own content, and attracting high quality, well-paying clients take much more time. But the pay-off is so much more rewarding and sustainable. 

Now restrict the covid to imact your financial credit

 – Since the beginning of March, COVID-19 has turned millions of Americans’ financial situations upside down.

While the economy is showing signs of recovery, many Americans are still unemployed and having to dip into their savings to cover basic living costs. To that end, the question remains: How do you protect your credit score? Read on for some tips.

• Contact your lender aas soon as possible if you can’t make a payment. On-time payments are the largest factor affecting your credit score. Many lenders continue to offer emergency support such as deferral or forbearance options that may allow you to reduce or suspend payments for a fixed period. However, if those terms are set to expire soon, you should “call your lender to discuss what options are available,” says Rod Griffin, senior director of consumer education and advocacy for the credit reporting agency Experian.

• Look for ways to boost your credit score. If you have limited credit history, building credit can be challenging. Experian’s free tool, Experian Boost, can help raise your FICO score instantly by giving you credit for on-time utility, phone and streaming service payments.

This type of alternative financial data, known as “consumer-permissioned data,” allows you to manage your data with confidence and qualify for better credit. In fact, two out of three Experian Boost users see an increase in their credit score with an average increase of about 12 points. That’s enough to make a significant difference when applying for a loan or any type of credit.

• Consider getting a balance transfer credit card or one with an introductory offer. Handled responsibly, this actually has the potential to increase your credit score while either buying you time to pay off your debts or getting a “welcome bonus” of perhaps hundreds of dollars. If you’re looking for personalized credit card options, tools like Experian CreditMatch can help you get the right card based on your financial profile.

• Pay attention to your utilization ratio. Your credit score is based on your total balance-to-limit ratio (a.k.a. “utilization rate”). Adding a new credit card increases your total available credit. As long as your total credit balance remains the same, you’d be decreasing your utilization rate, which can potentially boost your credit score. Be sure to transfer balances to the card with lower interest and be mindful of temporary low interest rates.

While any balance can cause scores to decline, you should keep your utilization under 30 percent, both overall and on individual accounts. Shooting for a top credit score? “Keep your utilization in the single digits, or even better, pay your credit card balances in full each month,” says Griffin.

• Fight fraud by checking your credit report regularly.According to the Federal Trade Commission., there’s been a huge jump in attempted credit – and debit-card fraud since the pandemic hit; consumers have lost more than $100 million to COVID-19-related fraud

GST DAY

Approx most of the day we heard about this Term GST, if we Recharge mobile current postpaid bill is Rs 500, we will have to shell out Rs 590. It is Rs 15 more than what you are currently paying. Food, electricity, gold, land, loans in these services GST is applicable

GST, Goods and Service Tax Act passed in the parliament of India on 27th March 2017 and came into effect on 1st July 2017.

The day was celebrated on 1st July 2018 to mark the first anniversary of the new indirect tax regime.GST is a single indirect tax on the supply of goods and services right from manufacturers to consumers. It’s replaced a number of taxes such As excise duty, service tax, central sales Tax, Value-added Tax(VAT), and Octroi.

Excise duty is an indirect tax that levies on the goods which, are produced within the country. This tax is not related to the Customs Duty. Excise Duty is also known as Central Value Added Tax. value-added Tax is collected by the state government. For example, if we purchase a good then we must pay an additional tax as Value Added Tax to the government. The VAT rate is decided based on the nature of the item and state.Custom duty and OctoroiThis tax is levied on those goods that are imported into India from outside. The Custom Duty tax is paid at the port of entry in the country as the airport. This tax rate also varies over the nature of goods. While the Octroi tax is charged on the goods entering the municipality.

GST was First coneceptual by Former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee,1999.

In an official message on the occasion of GST Day, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that more efforts are required to ease tax compliance further for the taxpayers, especially the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Wednesday marked the third anniversary of the launch of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.In message, Ms Sitharaman herhighlighted the steps taken towards easing the return filing process, including the recently introduced feature of SMS-based filing for nil return

Finance Bill 2020

The Finance Bill 2020 has been passed by the Lok Sabha on 23 March 2020 and also duly returned by the Rajya Sabha. There were significant changes made to the original Finance Bill 2020 which was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 1 February 2020.

The Lok Sabha passed the Finance Bill by voice vote with 40 amendments amidst the coronavirus pandemic. On March 27, President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to amend the Finance Bill 2020 and now it became the Finance Act 2020.

In the Union Budget 2020-2021, the government proposed to spend INR 30,42,230 crore in the next Fiscal Year which is 12.7% higher than the revised estimate of the year 2019-2020. After the Financial Bill 2020 has passed in the Lok Sabha, these proposals have been given effect.

What is a Finance Bill?

As per Article 110 of the Indian Constitution, Finance Bill is a Money Bill having a Memorandum containing explanations of the provisions included in it. The Finance Bill can only be introduced in Lok Sabha. However, Rajya Sabha can recommend amendments to be made in the Bill and it is up to Lok Sabha to accept or reject the recommendations. The bill must be passed by the Parliament within 75 days of its introduction.

Importance of Finance Bill

All the elements included in the Finance Act associated with a particular Financial Year are of course important. Even so, there are particular elements that take precedence over the others. The most important element is the rules laid down in the Act with respect to Income Tax Rates. Every year, the Act lays down in detail all the associated provisions related to Income Tax in the country. Since this applies to a large number of taxpayers, it is considered one of the most important elements.

The Finance Act is responsible for laying down the tax slabs that applies to taxpayers. The Act includes various details related to – Income through salary, agricultural income, tax slabs for senior citizens, tax slabs for very senior citizens, income Tax Surcharges, taxes chargeable to companies and advance tax.

These are a few important elements included and elaborated upon in detail in the Finance Act for a particular year.

Direct taxes

The Finance Act for a particular financial year also includes the amendments that have been made with respect to Direct Taxes. The Amendments made under various sections are noted down in this section of the Finance Act and each amendment of every section is noted down separately. Also included in the Finance Act are the details of the insertion of new sections, if any.

List of important amendments in the Finance Bill 2020

1- Additional excise duty on Petrol and Diesel by up to Rs 18 per litre and Rs 12 per litre respectively as and when required.

2- The original Finance Bill proposed to reduce the time spent in India by the Indian citizens or people of Indian origins to qualify as Indian tax resident from earlier 182 days to 120 days in 2019. Now, the Finance Act states that the 120-day rule will not apply to those citizens having Indian-sourced income less than INR 15 lakh in the relevant Fiscal Year. 

3- The Tax Deducted at Source or TDS rate on payment of dividend to non-residents and foreign companies have been set at 20% after the amendment. 

4- In the original Finance Bill, the dividend received by the shareholders was taxable. However, after the amendment, the dividends received by the shareholders will not be taxed if DDT has been paid as per the original law with effect to April 1. 

5- After the amendment, 1% of TDS has been imposed on e-commerce transactions. 

6- Finance Act, 2020 has extended reduced tax withholding rate of 2% to royalty in the nature of consideration for sale, distribution or exhibition of cinematographic films.