How To save Tax On Investing

Investing in Government Securities
For those who seek absolute protection of their capital, Investing in Postal Saving schemes such as NSC or putting money in PPF (Public provident fund) is an option.

Public Provident Fund
his was a popular savings avenue before ELSS came into the picture. PPF offers interest income in the range of 8% with annual compounding. However, the maximum amount that can be invested in PPF is Rs.70,000 and money cannot be withdrawn before completion of 6th year. Doesn’t look exciting enough ….right ? Yes, I agree with you. However, for those who look at PPF in terms of their retirement corpus and who feel that their current PF deduction is not sufficient, they may consider this option.

National Savings Certificate
Another popular avenue of yesteryears, investing in NSC also offers a return of 8% on half yearly compounding basis. Another feature is that Interest accrued on NSC is also eligible for Sec 80 C benefit. However, with removal of Sec 80 L, NSC has lost favor since the interest income is taxable. The duration of NSC is for 6 years with a option of premature encashment after 3 years. However, that would reduce the net yield from NSC.

Tax saving FD’s
This is a relatively new kid on the block. Tax saver FD’s are issued by banks for a tenure of 5 years and premature withdrawal is not permissible. It generates interest income of 8% with quarterly compounding. The interest income is taxable. If we compare tax saving FD’s to NSC, Tax saving FD’s have an edge on lock in period which is lesser by one year. However NSC have an edge from the fact that Interest accrued is also eligible for 80 C limit.

Life Insurance and Tax savings
As far as life insurance is concerned, endowment plans (money back plans) have been a popular source of investing. However, ULIP’s have taken a center stage now since they offer insurance as well as market related returns in a single product. However, investors should understand the underlying structure of ULIP carefully since these offerings have a substantial charge towards expense in the initial years and is advisable only for investors with a large investing horizon.

Another avenue within insurance domain is Pension plans. Pension plans have got a boost in last finance bill with the overall limit raised from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 100,000.

Let me disclose one thing here. I am biased towards other investing options as compared to Life Insurance products since I believe that insurance and investments should be taken separately. So while investing don’t think of insurance and while insuring yourself don’t think how much return you would generate from the investment in insurance. As far as insurance needs are concerned I believe in pure risk plans which cover your insuring needs at an affordable premium. However, these are my personal views and each one of you has a right to differ from this.

Infrastructure development Bonds-Losing sheen
With a return in the range of 5-6% this is the last avenue a tax saver would resort to. The dismal returns provided by these bonds have resulted in the investors shying away from these bonds. The return is hardly good enough to fight inflation, leave alone wealth creation.(Right click and open the window in new tab)

Understanding Section 80c
Learn how to save tax by taking benifit of Section 80c
www.moneybhai-investors

Best Tax Savings ELSS
Save Your Tax using Equity-Linked Saving Scheme
www.best-tax-savings-elss