New Delhi, Sept. 16 -- Cashback earned through a credit card transaction, money earned by referring a friend to a fintech app, or proceeds from selling an old phone online may all put money or benefits in your hands. But the tax treatment of these receipts can differ depending on their nature and the circumstances.

While some benefits and sale of personal items may not be taxable, referral earnings may have different implications under income tax rules. Here's how cashback, referral bonuses and old phone sales are treated, and when you may need to report them in your ITR.

Under Indian tax rules, most credit card rewards such as cashback, reward points and air miles are generally viewed as discounts or a rebate linked to spending, rather...