The 60-second version
Section 194F requires 10% TDS on interest on securities (debentures, bonds) when paid to resident — issuer or custodian deducts at credit.
194F is interest on securities — not equity dividend
Section 194F applies when interest is paid on securities such as debentures and bonds — 10% TDS deducted by payer.
Distinct from Section 194 dividend on shares and Section 194A bank FD interest.
NCD lane: bonds and NCD guide.
Interest TDS matrix
| Section | Rate | Instrument |
|---|---|---|
| 194F | 10% | Debenture/bond interest |
| 194A | 10% | Bank FD interest |
| 194 | 10%/20% | Equity dividend |
| 193 | 10% | Government securities |
194F sequence
Interest credit
Issuer pays interest.
10% TDS
Deducted at source.
26AS
Verify credit.
ITR
Declare interest income.
Form 67
If foreign bond overlap.
Flow
194F kit
- Interest advice.
- TDS cert.
- 26AS.
- PAN.
- ITR ACK.
Need help with Tax & Residency?
Share your blocker in one line. Our experts will reply with practical next steps.
No PAN
20% TDS per Section 206AA if PAN not furnished to issuer.
Quick visual
Animated decision map

Community signal
What to watch in real discussions
Search community threads for the exact phrase, then treat repeated complaints as risk signals rather than official advice.
Open nofollow community search ->Interactive checkpoint
Turn this guide into a decision file
0 of 4 checked
vs 194A?
194A bank interest; 194F securities interest.
54EC bonds?
Interest still taxable — capital gain may be exempt on redemption.
NRI holder?
Resident after return — 194F applies.
Form 15G?
If total income below exemption before interest credit.
Foreign bonds?
Not 194F — Schedule FA foreign income.
TDS refund?
If no taxable income — claim in ITR.
Your tax year is already running.
RNOR status, exit timing, and DTAA benefits all depend on decisions you make before you land. Don't guess.