Mansi Sawant
Expert
Published on: Sep 15, 2026
Tax Savings Options
Tax savings investment plans are essential for achieving financial goals. Various investment schemes available in the market offer tax exemptions and deductions. This article explores how to effectively reduce your tax burden by investing in tax-saving schemes at the right time. For FY 2020-2021, you can opt for the new tax regime with lower concessional rates without any deductions, or continue with the old regime, which offers higher rates combined with various exemptions and deductions. If you are following the old tax regime without finalizing financial products to minimize your tax outgo, consider these online options to save time.
5 Year Tax Savings Bank Fixed Deposit
A five-year fixed deposit is a hassle-free online tax-saving option. Using internet banking, you can easily invest in a tax-saving bank fixed deposit, which cannot be auto-renewed. Bank FDs offer cumulative and non-cumulative interest options. The interest earned is taxable and added to your income. Banks generally provide higher interest rates for senior citizens, typically 0.50% more than those for non-senior citizens. This product preserves capital while helping save taxes, though it may not enhance long-term wealth as post-tax returns might be lower than the inflation rate for those in the 30% tax bracket.
Term Life Insurance Policy & Tax Savings
Consider purchasing a term insurance policy or a unit-linked insurance plan (ULIP) online. Buying a term life insurance policy in a last-minute rush may require medical tests or additional information before issuance, impacting your tax benefits for FY 2020-2021. Ensure the issuance date is before March 31, 2021, for eligibility.
ULIPs for Tax Savings
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) offer potential wealth creation alongside life cover security. Part of your premium funds life cover, while the remainder invests in equities, debt, or both. Returns hinge on the performance of the chosen fund. Consider exploring ULIPs for tax savings and financial protection.
Public Provident Fund
The Public Provident Fund (PPF), introduced in 1968, encourages small savings with investment returns. Serving as a dual-purpose savings and tax-saving tool, PPF accounts help build retirement funds while offering annual tax savings. If you seek safe, tax-efficient investments with guaranteed returns, consider opening a PPF account.
Health Insurance Policy for Tax Savings
Health insurance is crucial for financial security during emergencies. It ensures comprehensive coverage for any planned or emergency hospitalization. You can avail tax benefits on premiums paid toward health insurance under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, subject to terms and conditions.
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
ELSS mutual funds come with a three-year lock-in period, offering an option alongside PPF, EPF, Tax-saving FDs, etc. There's no cap on investment amounts, but deductions are capped at Rs.1.5 lakh under Section 80C. Choose between regular and direct options, ensuring the right ELSS fund aligns with your risk profile and financial goals.
The best time to start planning tax-saving investments is at the start of the financial year. Early planning allows your investments to compound and achieve long-term goals. Tax savings is a goal unto itself.
Review existing tax-saving expenses such as insurance premiums, children's school fees, EPF contributions, and home loan repayments. Select tax-saving investments suited to your goals and risk profile, such as ELSS funds, PPF, NPS, and Fixed deposits.