The legal requirements for gratuity payments in India are primarily governed by the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972. This Act outlines the rules and regulations related to the payment of gratuity to employees. Here are the key legal requirements for gratuity payments in India: Applicability: The Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, applies to every factory, mine, oilfield, plantation, port, and railway company. It also applies to shops or establishments employing ten or more employees on any day in the preceding 12 months. Eligibility: An employee is eligible for gratuity if they have completed at least five years of continuous service with their employer. However, gratuity can also be paid before five years in cases of death or disability. Calculation of Gratuity: The gratuity amount is calculated using a specific formula provided by the Act. The formula is: Gratuity = (Last drawn salary * 15/26) * (Number of years of service) The "last drawn salary" includes basic pay and dearness allowance. Maximum Limit: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the maximum amount of gratuity that can be paid is ₹20 lakhs (₹20,00,000). Any amount exceeding this limit is not considered as gratuity under the Act. Payment Period: Gratuity should be paid within 30 days from the date it becomes payable to the employee. If there is a delay in payment, interest is payable to the employee for the period of delay. Nomination: Employees are encouraged to nominate a nominee who will receive the gratuity amount in case of the employee's death. Tax Implications: The gratuity received is taxable as per the Income Tax Act, 1961. However, there are exemptions available, and the exempted amount depends on the type of employer (government, public sector, or other) and whether the employee is covered under the Payment of Gratuity Act. Disputes and Appellate Authorities: In case of disputes related to gratuity, the Act provides for an appellate authority to adjudicate such disputes. It's important to note that while these are the key legal requirements for gratuity payments in India, there may have been updates or changes in the law since my last knowledge update in September 2021. Employers are advised to consult the latest provisions of the Payment of Gratuity Act and stay informed about any amendments or changes in the law to ensure compliance with the legal requirements for gratuity payments.