With the ever-increasing expenses, we often tend to look for a second income. It is these alternate incomes that allow us to have all the luxuries and comforts of our life. The market today is flooded with various financial instruments that appear lucrative to every investor. However, it is imperative to choose the one that is in sync with one’s financial goals and objectives, and that’s where the Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) come to the forefront.
What are ELSS?
Equity-linked savings scheme popularly known as ELSS are close-ended, lock-in period of 3 years diversified equity schemes offered by mutual funds in India. They offer tax benefits under the new Section 80C of Income Tax Act 1961.ELSS can be invested using both SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) and lump sums investment options. There is a 3 years lock-in period and thus has better Liquidity compared to other options like NSC and Public Provident Fund. ELSS is considered one of the best tax saving instruments.
Why should you invest in ELSS
1.Shorter lock-in periods:
The best part about investing in ELSS is the, among all the tax-saving schemes, they offer the shortest lock-in period. The three year lock-in period allows the investors to save and earn good interest on their finances. It also offers the investors the liberty to update their portfolios from time-to-time to make the most of the current market trend.
2.Plenty of options:
The ELSS also presents its investors with a plethora of options to invest in. Each option available offers a diverse portfolio of stocks to choose from. This helps the investor to customize their portfolio with respect to their financial goals and objectives.
3.Start with minimum investment:
While other funds may ask for huge initial investment, ELSS allows it investors to start with a minimum of Rs. 500. This helps the investor invest lower amount and not compromise on the benefits offered by the ELSS. The Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) allows the investor to invest in a part of their earnings each month with discipline.
4.Tax-saving:
ELSS investment offers tons of tax benefits under the Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The Act states that one can avail tax deduction of up to Rs. 1,50,000 yearly, as per the ELSS investments performed by the investor. The tax saving ELSS also allows its investors to earn tax-free capital gains and dividends up to Rs. 1,00,000 on a yearly basis.
For investors who come under the 20-30% tax slab, there are chances of saving a good amount, annually by investing in the ELSS.
Although, it is true that ELSS come with a lot of benefits it is wise to invest in it only after carefully understanding what meets your investment objective, horizon and risk profile.
In the light of the above-mentioned benefits, ELSS certainly looks like a wise investment if done with proper expert guidance.
