Gains from online gaming to be disclosed under black money law

People using e-wallets or virtual cards and earning money through online gaming or poker hosted by websites in foreign countries will be required to disclose such income under the black money compliance window, which ends on September 30.

In its second set of 27 FAQs, the Central Board of Direct Taxes has said the e-wallet or virtual card is similar to a bank account and, therefore, 'the valuation and declaration of an e-wallet account may be made as in the case of a bank account'.

CBDT was responding to a query whether persons maintaining e-wallet or a virtual card account online on a website hosted in a foreign country is required to make a declaration under the new black money law.

The e-wallet and virtual cards are often used to play online games and pokers.

In the case of undisclosed overseas bank accounts, a person is required to submit the details of credit since the opening of the account and pay 60 per cent tax and penalty to take advantage of the 90-day compliance window ending September 30.

If the person is unable to obtain the statement of bank accounts since its opening, the frequently asked questions said he can make a declaration on the basis of the 'best estimate'.

Clarifying on concerns raised by IT professionals, the FAQs said the non-residents who receive pension for the period of employment in a foreign country, will have to disclose the accretions in accounts from the date of becoming a resident in India.

The Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act provides for tax and penalty of 120 per cent and a jail term of up to 10 years for holding undisclosed foreign assets.

It offers a 90-day compliance window to escape the harsh punishment by declaring the assets and paying 60 per cent tax and penalty.