CTC Decoder

See where your "20 LPA" actually goes. We deduct the "Ghost Components" (Employer PF, Gratuity, Variable Pay) that HR adds to inflate the number.

Money you *might* get annually, not monthly.

For Old Regime Optimization (HRA):

Shocked? That's the point.

Compare with Market Standards →

What This Calculator Covers

Standard Indian CTC structure: variable pay, employer PF, gratuity, employee PF, professional tax, and income tax under both regimes. It selects the lower tax regime by default.

Assumptions and Limits
  • Basic salary assumed as 40 percent of fixed pay.
  • Employer PF capped at the standard monthly ceiling when basic exceeds 15k.
  • Only PF is considered for 80C; other deductions are not included.
  • Stock grants, ESOPs, and benefits are excluded.
Common Scenarios
  • Service companies often have higher variable pay and lower fixed take-home.
  • Startups may show higher fixed pay but smaller employer PF contributions.
  • Metro HRA benefits apply only when rent is paid and declared.
FAQ

Why is my in-hand lower than expected? CTC includes employer PF, gratuity, and variable components that are not monthly cash.

Is this exact? It is a strong estimate; actual pay slips vary by company structure.

Can you add more deductions? Yes. Share edge cases on the Salary Drop page.

Edge Cases We Do Not Model Yet
  • NPS employer contribution and other retirement benefits.
  • Special allowances tied to location or shift timing.
  • ESOPs, stock grants, and retention bonuses.
  • Insurance premiums and reimbursement limits.

Last updated: February 2026

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