November 9, 2024
Tax planning is an essential part of personal finance. For many, the end of the financial year can bring stress as they look for ways to reduce their tax liability.
Selecting the best tax saving scheme can make a huge difference. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which scheme to choose. In this article, we’ll look at some of the top tax-saving schemes and analyze their benefits. By understanding each option, you can decide which scheme works best for you.
You can also explore our article on year-end tax planning tips for individuals to get a better idea of maximizing your savings this season.
Why is Tax Saving Important?
Every taxpayer wants to save on taxes, but it’s essential to do so in a smart way. Choosing the best tax saving scheme doesn’t only help reduce tax bills; it can also help in wealth creation and future planning. Many schemes offer tax benefits under Section 80C, 80D, and other sections of the Income Tax Act. Let’s explore some popular schemes to understand how they can help you save money.
Popular Tax-Saving Schemes in 2024
When looking for the best tax saving scheme, it’s essential to consider your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Below are some of the top options to consider. read our guide on the 10 best investments for the last quarter of 2024.
- Public Provident Fund (PPF)
The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is one of the most popular tax-saving schemes in India. It’s a government-backed scheme that offers a fixed interest rate, making it a safe choice for risk-averse investors.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Interest earned is tax-free.
Safe and risk-free, as it is government-backed.
Details: PPF comes with a lock-in period of 15 years, but partial withdrawals are allowed after five years. The government revises the interest rate every quarter. The long-term nature of PPF also makes it a suitable option for retirement planning.
- Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
Employee Provident Fund (EPF) is a retirement savings scheme for salaried individuals. Under this scheme, both the employee and employer contribute a part of the salary to build a retirement fund. You can read more about EPF on the EPFO official website.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Long-term retirement savings.
Interest earned is tax-free up to a specific limit.
Details: EPF contributions are deducted directly from the salary, making it a convenient option for salaried individuals. The accumulated amount becomes a solid financial base upon retirement.
- National Savings Certificate (NSC)
The National Savings Certificate (NSC) is a fixed-income investment scheme suitable for small and medium investors. It’s backed by the government and offers guaranteed returns. you may find our beginner’s guide to investing useful to help you get started.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Government-backed and low-risk.
Fixed interest rate and reliable returns.
Details: NSC has a lock-in period of five years. Although the interest is taxable, the reinvested interest (up to 5 years) also qualifies for tax deduction, helping investors save more.
- Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
For those willing to take a bit of risk, the Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) can be the best tax saving scheme. It is a type of mutual fund that invests mainly in stocks.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Potentially high returns due to stock market exposure.
Shortest lock-in period of only three years.
Details: ELSS funds are market-linked, meaning they carry higher risk compared to other schemes like PPF or NSC. However, they also offer potentially higher returns, making them suitable for investors with a high-risk tolerance. ELSS can be a great option for those looking to build wealth over the long term.
- Fixed Deposits (Tax-Saving FDs)
Tax-saving fixed deposits (FDs) offer tax benefits under Section 80C. These are bank deposits with a lock-in period and offer a fixed rate of return.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Fixed interest rates.
Low-risk option as banks back it.
Details: Tax-saving FDs have a lock-in period of five years. The interest earned is taxable, which makes this option less attractive for higher tax bracket individuals. However, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a stable return.
- Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP)
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) offer both investment and insurance benefits. They allow you to invest in equity, debt, or balanced funds, and the returns depend on the market performance of the chosen funds.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Insurance coverage combined with investment.
Option to switch between equity and debt funds.
Details: ULIPs have a lock-in period of five years, and the returns are market-linked. They are suitable for individuals looking for both insurance coverage and investment benefits.
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a government scheme specifically for the girl child. It aims to encourage parents to save for their daughters’ education and marriage.
Benefits:
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
High-interest rate compared to other schemes.
Encourages long-term savings.
Details: SSY has a lock-in period until the girl child turns 21. It’s an excellent option for parents looking to save for their daughter’s future and enjoy tax benefits.
Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Tax Saving Scheme
Selecting the best tax saving scheme depends on various factors. Here are some key considerations:
- Risk Appetite: If you have a low-risk tolerance, go for government-backed schemes like PPF and NSC. If you are open to higher risks for better returns, ELSS could be suitable.
- Investment Horizon: Some schemes have a long lock-in period, such as PPF (15 years), while others like ELSS have only three years. Consider how long you can keep your money invested.
- Return on Investment: Check the potential returns. Equity-based schemes like ELSS have higher returns but come with higher risk, while fixed-income options like FDs and NSC offer lower returns but are safer.
- Tax Treatment of Returns: Some schemes like PPF offer tax-free returns, while the interest from FDs is taxable. Understanding the tax treatment of returns can help maximize your post-tax income.
- Liquidity Needs: If you need quick access to funds, consider schemes with a shorter lock-in period. For example, ELSS has a lock-in of three years, making it more accessible compared to PPF.
Best Tax Saving Scheme for Different Individuals
For Salaried Individuals: EPF and tax-saving FDs are convenient as they are easy to manage with a salary.
For Risk-Takers: ELSS can be a good option, given its high-return potential.
For Parents: SSY offers a great way to save for a daughter’s future with attractive tax benefits.
For Retirees: PPF provides a safe and steady return, making it suitable for conservative investors.