A tax-saving fixed deposit (FD) is a type of special savings account that offers tax advantages and assists individuals in setting money aside for the future. These accounts have an extra benefit above standard FDs: you can deduct them from your income taxes under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of 1961. This implies that investing in a tax-saving FD can lower your taxable income by up to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.
Things To Keep in Mind Before Investing In FD
1. Purpose and Duration
The goal of FDs is to promote long-term savings. They have a five-year lock-in period, which prevents you from taking money out before then. This lock-in time aids in encouraging an organised approach to saving.
2. Tax Deduction
You can take advantage of a tax deduction on your taxable income by investing in a tax-saving FD. Your annual tax bill may be greatly decreased by claiming up to Rs. 1.5 lakh. Because it falls under Section 80C, this deduction is a well-liked option for tax planning.
3. Returns and Interest
Even though tax-saving certificates of deposit (FDs) have taxable interest, they nonetheless have competitive interest rates, ranging from 5.5% to 7.75%. Although the interest you earn is added to your taxable income, investing in it might generate significant rewards.
Benefits of Tax-Saving Fixed Deposits
1. Security and Low Risk
Bank backing and strict regulatory authorities guarantee a high degree of safety and low risk for tax-saving FDs. They are therefore a reliable choice for careful investors.
2. Increased Interest Income
Tax-saving FDs provide greater interest rates than normal savings accounts, which will help your money grow more efficiently over time.
3. Easy Deposit Choices
You can choose to deposit a lump sum amount one time at your convenience, and you can change the amount to suit your needs and financial objectives.
4. TDS and Tax Deductions
In addition to the tax advantages, Section 80C allows you to deduct income taxes up to Rs. 1,50,000 yearly. But remember that TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) applies to the interest earned.
5. Premature Withdrawal Considerations
With a lock-in period, tax-saving FDs encourage long-term savings, although they might not allow early withdrawals. This promotes dedication to the investing period, which is consistent with the promotion of long-term financial discipline.
