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Rule 325Published

Rule 325: Gratuity arrangements when the employer's business is wound up

Rule 325 protects beneficiaries on closure. Rules 316 to 329 govern approved gratuity funds under Part B of Schedule XI to the Act. Where the employer's trade or undertaking is to be wound up or discontinued, the trustees must, with prior approval of and subject to conditions of the approving authority, make satisfactory arrangements to pay gratuity to existing beneficiaries.

Official notified Income-tax Rules, 2026

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This article is for general information. Read the official Rules and applicable Act amendments, including the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2026. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.

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Bare law

Rule 325 - Arrangements for winding up, etc., of business

Where the trade or undertaking of the employer is to be wound up or discontinued, the trustees shall, with the prior approval of, and subject to such conditions as may be imposed by, approving authority, make satisfactory arrangements for the payment of gratuity to the existing beneficiaries.

Rule breakdown

Requirement

Prior approval of the approving authority.

Satisfactory arrangements for payment of gratuity to existing beneficiaries.

Subject to conditions imposed.

Key takeaways

Prior approval

Required.

Existing beneficiaries

Protected.

Superannuation parallel

Rule 311.

Practical checklist

  • Seek approval early.

Avoid

  • Do not distribute without approval.

FAQs

What happens to gratuity if the business closes?

Trustees make satisfactory arrangements to pay gratuity with prior approval (Rule 325).

Who approves?

The approving authority.

Who is protected?

Existing beneficiaries.

Glossary

Undertaking
The employer's business or unit.
Approving authority
Defined in Rule 316(a).

Official sources