Most Indian earners anchor plans to cost-to-company (CTC), but money you can actually spend and save is take-home pay after tax, provident fund, and other deductions. If your savings target is a percentage of gross salary, you may be systematically over- or under-saving without realising it.

On the FinCoHolic Salary & Savings calculator, enter your monthly gross, tax regime assumptions, PF rate, and other deductions. The tool shows net in-hand pay, recommended savings, and what remains for living expenses. Compare scenarios: a hike in gross with the same tax section, or higher PF with lower take-home.

A practical rule: define savings as a share of net income unless you have a specific reason to use gross (for example, matching an employer match formula). Once net is clear, send the savings figure to the Budget planner and Savings Rules tools so the whole plan stays consistent.

This article is educational only — not tax or investment advice. Verify tax treatment with a qualified chartered accountant before filing.