For the financial year 2026-27, the new income tax rules enable individuals with a Cost to Company (CTC) of ₹15.85 lakh to potentially owe zero income tax. This is achievable through the exemption of employer-provided meal vouchers, which allow for a tax-free benefit of up to ₹200 per meal. By strategically structuring salary components, such as basic salary and deductions for provident fund contributions and National Pension Scheme (NPS), the taxable income can be reduced to ₹11.98 lakh, below the ₹12 lakh threshold necessary for claiming a full rebate under Section 87A. This approach is particularly advantageous for employees in sectors like IT, finance, and media. However, it is essential to ensure that meal vouchers are issued correctly and that salary is the only source of income to maximize benefits. Individuals are advised to consult with their HR departments and tax professionals to ensure compliance and optimize their tax planning.