Stamp Duty in Maharashtra – Types, Rates & Full Guide 2025
Updated as per Maharashtra Stamp (Amendment) Act, 2025
1. Introduction to Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty is a legal tax payable on documents that are used to create, transfer, or extinguish any rights or liability. In Maharashtra, this duty is governed by the Maharashtra Stamp Act, 1958. Whether you’re buying property, executing a loan agreement, or transferring shares, stamp duty is applicable and must be paid to make the instrument legally enforceable in court.
2. What is Stamp Duty and Why is it Levied?
Stamp duty is essentially a form of tax that provides legal validity to various documents. It ensures:
- Authenticity of documents
- Government revenue generation
- Document admissibility in courts
In Maharashtra, the Inspector General of Registration oversees the collection of stamp duty through Sub-Registrar offices and online payment platforms.
3. Legal Provisions under Maharashtra Stamp Act
The Maharashtra Stamp Act lays down the list of instruments that attract stamp duty, their valuation rules, and rates. The Act was amended several times to match inflation, real estate market trends, and simplify compliance for citizens.
4. Types of Instruments Liable for Stamp Duty
Below are the common types of documents that attract stamp duty in Maharashtra:
- Sale Deed
- Gift Deed
- Agreement for Sale
- Leave and License (Rent) Agreement
- Power of Attorney
- Partnership Deed
- Loan Agreement
5. Stamp Duty Rates in Maharashtra (2025)
Here’s a detailed table showing the latest applicable rates:
| Instrument Type | Stamp Duty Rate (Urban) | Stamp Duty Rate (Rural) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sale Deed | 5% | 4% | Additional 1% metro cess in Mumbai/Navi Mumbai/Thane |
| Gift Deed (Non-family) | 3% | 3% | Family gift is exempt or 1% only |
| Lease Agreement | 0.25% to 5% | Same | Depends on lease period and rent |
| Leave & License (Rent) | 0.25% of total rent + deposit | Same | Minimum ₹100 stamp duty |
| Power of Attorney | ₹500 to ₹5000 | Same | Higher for property-related POA |
| Loan Agreement | 0.1% to 0.5% | Same | Subject to cap ₹5 lakh |
6. Factors Affecting Stamp Duty in Maharashtra
- Location: Urban vs Rural
- Type of transaction: Sale vs Gift
- Relation between parties: Family gifts get concession
- Gender: Women pay lower duty in some transactions
7. Stamp Duty on Common Property Transactions
Gift Deed
If gifted to a family member (defined under the Act), the duty is just ₹200 or 1%. If gifted to a non-relative, it’s 3% of market value.
Sale Deed
Stamp duty is calculated on the higher of the agreement value or ready reckoner (circle) value, usually 5% + 1% metro cess.
Power of Attorney (POA)
If POA is for family transfer with no consideration, duty is ₹500. For others, it may be 3% to 5% based on transaction value.
8. Stamp Duty Exemptions and Concessions
There are many exemptions/concessions granted:
- Transfer to blood relatives (gift deed)
- Transfer to a spouse (marital gift)
- Women buyers get concession of 1%
- Exemption for redevelopment housing schemes
9. Family Transfers – Concessional Rates
Maharashtra allows concessional rates when property is transferred through gift deed to:
- Husband or wife
- Father, mother
- Siblings
- Children, grandchildren
Stamp Duty in such cases is capped at ₹200 only.
10. Online Payment of Stamp Duty in Maharashtra
You can pay stamp duty online via the IGR Maharashtra official website. Here’s how:
- Visit the site and select ‘E-Payment’
- Enter property and party details
- Choose payment mode – Netbanking/Challan
- Download e-Stamp receipt and use in your registration
11. Penalty for Non-payment/Underpayment
If the required stamp duty is not paid or paid less, penalties up to 10 times the deficit amount can be levied. Moreover, the document becomes inadmissible in court until duty + penalty is paid.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can stamp duty be refunded in Maharashtra?
Yes. If paid in excess or document is cancelled within 6 months, refund application can be made under Rule 34.
Q. Is registration fee different from stamp duty?
Yes. Registration fee is 1% of market value, paid separately in addition to stamp duty.
Q. Is stamp duty applicable on inherited property?
No stamp duty is required for inherited property via succession or will.
Q. Is PAN mandatory for stamp duty payment?
Yes. PAN is mandatory for property transactions exceeding ₹10 lakh.
Q. Can I pay Maharashtra stamp duty on SHCIL portal?
No. Use IGRMaharashtra portal instead.