Missed the ITR Deadline? How to File a Late Return
The ITR due dates for FY 2025-26 have passed. You can still file a belated return until 31 December 2026. Late fee, interest, what you lose and how to file.
· 5 min read
SmartFigure blog
Plain-English guides to income tax, investing, retirement, loans and savings in India.
DA Hike July 2026: 63% Expected for Central Employees
DA is 60% now and the July 2026 revision works out to 63%, a 3-point rise. What is confirmed, the pay and arrears by level, and when Cabinet may decide.
· 5 min read
Petrol, Diesel and LPG Price Hikes 2026: What Changed
Petrol and diesel rose about ₹7 a litre in four hikes in May 2026, and LPG is up ₹89 a cylinder. Latest city prices, why $100 crude matters and what may come.
· 6 min read
RBI Policy 5–7 October 2026: Will Your Home Loan EMI Rise?
The RBI decides on the repo rate after 5–7 October 2026. Why a hike is being discussed, what it would do to your EMI in rupees, and what to do now.
· 5 min read
IRDAI Proposes Commission Caps: Will Insurance Get Cheaper?
IRDAI has proposed caps on insurance commissions and tighter expense limits, open for comments until 25 October 2026. What it means for your premium.
· 6 min read
EPFO Wage Ceiling Raised to ₹25,000: PF and Salary Impact
The Cabinet raised the EPFO wage ceiling from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 a month from 17 September 2026. Who is covered, PF math and the effect on take-home pay.
· 5 min read
Sensex Falls 1,248 Points: Why the Market Crashed
Sensex fell 1,248 points and Nifty closed at 23,063 on 24 September 2026. Why it happened, what to do with your SIPs and mutual funds, and what to avoid.
· 5 min read
Buying Property From an NRI? No TAN Needed From 1 October
From 1 October 2026, buyers can pay TDS on property bought from an NRI using their PAN, without a TAN. What changes, TDS rates, and the steps to follow.
· 4 min read
RBI’s New FD Rules From 1 October 2026: What Changes
From 1 October 2026, banks must pay the same FD rate at every branch and publish bulk deposit rates daily by 10 am. What changed and what it means for you.
· 4 min read
SEBI’s New Nomination Rules for Demat and Mutual Funds
From 1 September 2026, new single-holder demat accounts and mutual fund folios need a nominee or an opt-out. Who it applies to, what changed and how to add one.
· 4 min read
Gold at ₹1.56 Lakh Before Navratri: Should You Buy Now?
Gold is near ₹1.56 lakh per 10 g ahead of Navratri and Dhanteras 2026. What is moving the price, the real cost of jewellery, and cheaper ways to own gold.
· 5 min read
RBI’s 60-Day Debit Hold on Mule Accounts: What It Means for You
RBI’s draft lets banks block debits for up to 60 days on accounts suspected of carrying fraud money. When a hold can happen, your rights, and how to avoid it.
· 5 min read