Stamp duty is a state government tax levied on property sale transactions. It is calculated on the transaction value or the government circle rate, whichever is higher. The stamp paper for the sale deed must be purchased for this amount before the property is registered.

Who pays stamp duty — buyer or seller?

In most Indian states, stamp duty is paid by the buyer. The registration charges that accompany stamp duty are also typically the buyer's responsibility, though this can be negotiated as part of the sale agreement.

Do women buyers get a concession on stamp duty?

Yes, many states including Karnataka, Delhi, and Maharashtra offer reduced stamp duty rates for properties registered in a woman's name or jointly with a woman as the primary owner. Open your state's guide above to see the applicable rate.

Is stamp duty paid on the agreement value or the market value?

Stamp duty is paid on whichever is higher — the sale agreement value or the government's guidance value (also called circle rate or ready reckoner rate). If you buy a property below the guidance value, you still pay stamp duty on the guidance value.

Can stamp duty be claimed as a tax deduction?

Yes. Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, stamp duty and registration charges paid on a residential property are eligible for deduction up to the overall Section 80C limit of ₹1.5 lakh per year. This benefit applies in the year the payment is made.

When is stamp duty paid?

Stamp duty must be paid before or at the time of signing the sale deed. The registration of the property at the sub-registrar office also happens on the same day. Delays or underpayment can attract penalties, so it's important to calculate the correct amount in advance.