Earn Money Save Tax

Tax planning may seem like a tedious exercise requiring lot of efforts that may make an ordinary investor nervous at the first glance. Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) offers a simple way to get tax benefits and at the same time get an opportunity to gain from the potential of Indian equity markets.

What is ELSS?

Simply put, ELSS is a type of diversified equity mutual fund which is qualified for tax exemption under section 80C of the Income Tax Act, and offers the twin-advantage of capital appreciation and tax benefits. It comes with a lock-in period of three years.

Why should one invest in an ELSS?

ELSS funds are one of the best avenues to save tax under Section 80C. This is because along with the tax deduction, the investor also gets the potential upside of investing in the equity markets. Also, no tax is levied on the long-term capital gains from these funds. Moreover, compared to other tax saving options, ELSS has the shortest lock-in period of three years.

BEYOND TAX SAVING

Parameter PPF NSC ELSS
Tenure 15 years 6 years 3 years
Returns (As applicable presently)
8% p.a.
8 % p.a. Compounded
(half-yearly)
Not assured
Minimum investments Rs.500 Rs.100 Rs.500
Maximum investments Rs.70,000 No limit* No limit*
Amount eligible for
deduction under Section 80C
Rs.70,000 Rs 1,00,000 Rs 1,00,000

* There is no upper limit on investments. However, investments of only upto Rs.100,000 per year are allowed to be claimed as deductions under Section 80C.

The instruments illustrated in the chart are different in nature having different lock in period and different risk factors. The information is given for the purpose of general understanding and should not be considered as an assurance of any returns/ advise. Investors are advised to consult their financial consultants or advisors before taking any decisions of investment. Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

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