ITAT: Builder's Error Doesn't Affect Tax Benefit Claim

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) has ruled that errors made by builders in the allotment of flats will not affect the tax benefit claims of homebuyers. This decision provides relief to homebuyers who may have faced discrepancies in the allotment process due to errors made by developers. The ITAT's ruling came in response to a case where a taxpayer claimed tax benefits for the purchase of a flat, despite discrepancies in the allotment process caused by errors made by the builder. The tribunal held that the taxpayer's entitlement to tax benefits should not be affected by the builder's mistakes. According to the ITAT, the taxpayer's eligibility for tax benefits is determined by the fulfilment of conditions specified under the Income Tax Act, rather than the accuracy of information provided by the builder. As long as the taxpayer meets the necessary criteria for claiming tax benefits, such as possession of the flat and fulfilment of payment obligations, they are entitled to avail of the benefits. The ruling provides clarity and reassurance to homebuyers who may have been concerned about the impact of builder errors on their tax benefits. It emphasises the importance of fulfilling statutory requirements for claiming tax benefits, irrespective of any discrepancies in the allotment process caused by builders. As the ITAT upholds the rights of homebuyers to claim tax benefits, it underscores the need for developers to ensure accuracy and transparency in the allotment process. The decision is likely to have wider implications for the real estate sector, promoting accountability and consumer protection in property transactions.