Tax Saving Decision Tree & Asset Allocation Wizard
An interactive decision framework for Indian taxpayers choosing between PPF, ELSS, Tax Saving FDs, NSC, and SSY based on lock-in periods and post-tax yields.
5-Question Pre-Investment Evaluation Checklist
Answer these 4 fundamental questions before locking your money into any scheme.
Do you already have at least 6 months of essential expenses in a liquid emergency fund?
Before committing money to 5-year or 15-year locked-in deposits like PPF or NSC, ensure you hold liquid cash for sudden medical or job loss emergencies.
Will you need access to this principal capital within the next 5 years?
If you need this money for a short-term milestone (wedding, car, house downpayment), avoid 5-year lock-in products and choose a Bank FD Ladder.
Do you require monthly or quarterly interest payouts to pay living expenses?
If you need regular cash flow, choose SCSS (8.2% quarterly) or POMIS (7.4% monthly) rather than compounding schemes like PPF or KVP.
Are you trying to claim Income Tax deductions under Section 80C (Old Tax Regime)?
Section 80C allows deducting up to ₹1,50,000 from taxable income using PPF, NSC, SSY, or 5-Year Bank Tax Saver FDs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the safest Section 80C tax saving investment in India?
Public Provident Fund (PPF) and National Savings Certificate (NSC) offer 100% sovereign safety guaranteed by the Government of India, along with Section 80C tax deductions up to ₹1.5 Lakh.
Is PPF interest taxable under the New Tax Regime?
No! PPF interest and maturity payouts are 100% tax-free under both Old and New Tax Regimes (EEE status).