Token Receipt for Property Transactions: 10 Ultimate Tips for India 2025

A token receipt is a document acknowledging the advance payment (earnest money) made by a buyer to a seller during a property transaction, securing the deal before the final agreement. It ensures transparency and commitment in property deals.

In this 1,500+ word guide, we provide expert insights on creating a token receipt for property transactions in India in 2025, covering its purpose, legal considerations, required details, and 10 proven tips to draft it effectively. Legalkarar’s services ensure compliance across states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi. Need help? Request our drafting support or learn about our team.

Token Receipt Drafting Process
Legalkarar streamlines token receipt creation in India.

What is a Token Receipt?

A token receipt is a written acknowledgment of an advance payment (token money) made by the buyer to the seller in a property transaction, signaling intent to proceed with the deal. It typically precedes the sale agreement or sale deed.

Legalkarar provides drafting support for token receipts for residential land, commercial land, and buildings across India.

Why is a Token Receipt Important?

Creating a token receipt offers key benefits:

  • Commitment: Secures the deal by showing buyer’s intent.
  • Transparency: Documents the advance payment, reducing disputes.
  • Legal Clarity: Serves as evidence in case of disagreements.
  • Negotiation Leverage: Locks in property terms before final agreement.
  • Trust Building: Establishes mutual trust between parties.

Without a token receipt, disputes over advance payments may arise. Contact us at support@legalkarar.com for assistance.

Learn how to draft a token receipt with Legalkarar.

Token receipts are governed by:

  • Indian Contract Act, 1872: Ensures the receipt is a valid agreement (Section 10).
  • Stamp Act, 1899: May require nominal stamp duty in some states (e.g., ₹10–₹100).
  • Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Protects against unfair practices in property deals.
  • State Laws: Vary on notarization or stamp duty requirements. India Code.

Non-compliance risks invalidity. Explore our services.

Required Details in a Token Receipt

Include these details in the token receipt:

  1. Parties’ Details: Full names, addresses, and contact info of buyer and seller.
  2. Property Description: Address, survey number, and size of the property.
  3. Token Amount: Exact amount paid (e.g., ₹1,00,000).
  4. Payment Mode: Cheque, bank transfer, or cash with transaction details.
  5. Date and Place: Date and location of issuance.
  6. Purpose: State the receipt is for a property transaction.
  7. Signatures: Signed by buyer, seller, and witnesses (if applicable).
  8. Conditions: Refund or forfeiture terms, if any.

Requirements vary by state. Use our support services.

Property Transaction
Legalkarar ensures clear token receipts for property deals.

10 Ultimate Tips for Drafting a Token Receipt

Follow these tips to create an effective token receipt in 2025:

  1. Use Clear Language: Avoid ambiguous terms to ensure clarity.
  2. Verify Party Details: Cross-check names and IDs (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN).
  3. Specify Property: Include survey number, address, and boundaries.
  4. Detail Payment: Mention exact amount and mode (e.g., cheque number).
  5. Include Conditions: State refund or forfeiture terms clearly.
  6. Add Witnesses: Include two witnesses for added validity.
  7. Notarize if Needed: Notarize in states requiring it (e.g., Maharashtra).
  8. Use Stamp Paper: Use ₹10–₹100 stamp paper as per state laws.
  9. Keep Copies: Provide copies to both parties and store safely.
  10. Use Legalkarar: Our services ensure compliance.

These tips minimize disputes. Need help? Contact Legalkarar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors when drafting a token receipt:

  • Vague Terms: Unclear refund or forfeiture conditions.
  • Missing Details: Omitting property or payment specifics.
  • No Witnesses: Skipping witnesses reduces validity.
  • Non-Compliance: Ignoring state stamp duty or notarization rules.
  • Unsigned Copies: Failing to get signatures from both parties.
  • No Copies: Not providing copies to both parties.

Learn more at LiveLaw or our blog.

Post-Drafting Steps

After drafting the token receipt, complete these steps:

  • Share Copies: Provide signed copies to buyer and seller.
  • Store Safely: Keep digital and physical copies secure.
  • Proceed to Agreement: Draft the sale agreement or sale deed.
  • Verify Payment: Confirm receipt of token amount in bank records.
  • Consult Experts: Use Legalkarar for next steps like sale deed drafting.

Legalkarar offers post-drafting support.

Sample Token Receipt Format

Below is a sample format for a token receipt:

Section Sample Content
Title Token Receipt
Date & Place April 26, 2025, Mumbai
Parties Received from: Mr. Anil Kumar, S/o Mr. Ramesh Kumar, residing at 123, ABC Colony, Mumbai.
Received by: Ms. Priya Sharma, D/o Mr. Vijay Sharma, residing at 456, XYZ Nagar, Mumbai.
Property Property at Plot No. 789, Survey No. 101, ABC Colony, Mumbai, measuring 1000 sq.ft.
Amount ₹1,00,000 (Rupees One Lakh Only)
Payment Mode Cheque No. 123456, XYZ Bank, dated April 26, 2025
Purpose As token money for the proposed purchase of the above property.
Conditions Refundable if sale agreement is not executed within 30 days; otherwise adjustable in final payment.
Signatures Signed by: Anil Kumar (Buyer), Priya Sharma (Seller), and two witnesses.

Customize with our template service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a token receipt legally binding?

Yes, if it meets the requirements of the Indian Contract Act, 1872.

Is stamp duty required for a token receipt?

Nominal stamp duty (₹10–₹100) may apply in some states.

What details are mandatory in a token receipt?

Parties’ details, property description, token amount, payment mode, and signatures.

Should a token receipt be notarized?

Not mandatory but recommended in some states for added validity.

Can I get a refund of the token amount?

Depends on the conditions specified in the receipt.

How much token money is typical?

Usually 1–10% of the property value, depending on the agreement.

What if the deal fails after the token receipt?

Follow the refund or forfeiture terms in the receipt.

Conclusion

Creating a token receipt for property transactions in India in 2025 is crucial for securing deals and ensuring transparency. By including clear details, following legal guidelines, and avoiding common errors, you can draft an effective receipt. Legalkarar’s expert services simplify the process, ensuring compliance and clarity.

Ready to create your token receipt? Start with Legalkarar or download our free template.

Download Legalkarar’s Token Receipt Template
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