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Section 80D: health insurance tax deduction explained

Section 80D limits for self, family and parents — how much premium you can claim, preventive checkup, and why it only helps under the old tax regime.

5 min read · Updated 3 July 2026

Section 80D lets you deduct health insurance premiums from taxable income under the old tax regime. It is one of the few deductions that also buys you something you actually need — medical cover.

Deduction limits (old regime)

  • Self + family (under 60): up to ₹25,000.
  • Parents (under 60): additional ₹25,000.
  • Parents (senior citizens): additional ₹50,000.
  • Preventive health checkup: up to ₹5,000 within the above limits.

Under the new regime, 80D is not available. Buy health insurance for protection either way — the tax break is a bonus, not the reason.

Common questions

What is the Section 80D limit?
Under the old regime: up to ₹25,000 for self/family, plus ₹25,000 for parents (₹50,000 if senior citizens). Not available in the new regime.
Can I claim 80D in the new tax regime?
No. Buy health insurance for protection either way — the deduction only applies under the old regime.

Try it yourself

🧾 Income tax calculator

Keep reading

Health insurance in India: how much cover do you need?

How much health insurance to buy in India, family floater vs individual, what to check in a policy, and why employer cover alone is not enough.

Section 80C explained: how to save tax up to ₹1.5 lakh in India

Every Section 80C option in one place — PPF, ELSS, EPF, life insurance, home loan principal, NSC and more. What qualifies, limits, and who should use it under the old tax regime.

Old vs new tax regime: which one actually saves you money

Both regimes explained in plain English, when each one wins, and worked examples for FY 2025-26 so you can pick the one that leaves more money in your pocket.

General education, not personalised financial advice. Rules and rates change — verify the current position before you act.