NPS Returns: Features & Benefits of National Pension Scheme
Unveiling the Dynamics of NPS Returns
The National Pension Scheme (NPS) stands as a cornerstone in the realm of retirement planning, introduced by the Government of India. This voluntary contribution-based pension plan is strategically devised to empower individuals to create a robust retirement corpus, ensuring financial security during their golden years.
Eligibility and Structure
Eligibility for NPS is extended to Indian residents falling within the age bracket of 18 to 60 years. This non-market-linked scheme provides a secure avenue for stable returns, making it an attractive option for long-term investors.
NPS Returns and Investment Strategy
NPS returns are orchestrated by fund managers representing the National Pension Scheme. With the flexibility to choose from 8 pension fund managers based on asset groups, tier structures, and investment splits, beneficiaries can tailor their portfolios. The returns from NPS hinge on the chosen asset allocation and pension fund manager.
Ideal for prolonged investments, NPS returns escalate with increased allocation to different asset classes. Unlike predetermined compounding rates, investors can gauge returns by considering the compound annual Growth Rate of each asset over time.
Target Audience for NPS
The National Pension Scheme welcomes every Indian citizen aiming to construct a retirement nest egg through the returns it offers. The scheme uniquely allows continuity for individuals transitioning between jobs.
NPS caters to those seeking a consistent post-retirement income source without venturing into market-dependent instruments like Mutual Funds. Its systematic investment plans boast features and benefits suitable for a diverse range of investors.
Features and Benefits
Tax Exemption
NPS investments enjoy tax exemption, and withdrawals align with provisions outlined in Income Tax Act 80CCD. Tax calculations encompass two categories:
80CCD(1): Covers self-contributed amounts, with a maximum deductible amount based on monthly earnings for salaried individuals and a percentage of gross income for self-employed individuals.
80CCD(2): Applicable to the employer's contribution, with the maximum tax-exempted amount determined by the total NPS contribution, 10% of basic + DA, or total gross income, whichever is lowest. Not applicable to self-employed individuals.
Additional tax exemptions on self-contributions are possible under Section 80CCD(1B) up to Rs. 50,000, bringing the total eligible tax exemption for NPS returns to Rs. 2 lakh.
Returns
NPS yields significantly higher returns compared to long-term tax-saving instruments like Public Provident Funds. With a portion invested in equities, NPS outperforms other investment options.
Delivering a consistent 8% to 10% return annually for over a decade, NPS offers the flexibility of changing fund managers for a diversified portfolio. The investment approach can be auto or active, adapting to an investor's age and risk tolerance.
Despite the potential for higher returns, the associated risk remains low due to capped equity exposure (50% to 75%) and a gradual reduction in equity after the investor crosses 50 years, mitigating market volatility.
Simple Exit Rules
Investors can continue contributing to NPS until the age of 60, post which they can withdraw the entire corpus. A minimum of 40% of the corpus must be maintained to receive a regular pension post-retirement. Partial withdrawals are permitted for specific purposes after a minimum 3-year investment period, with three withdrawals allowed at a minimum interval of 5 years.
Opening an NPS Account
The NPS account can be initiated through both online and offline processes:
Offline Process
Visit any PFRDA-approved financial institution, complete the pen-and-paper application, adhere to KYC guidelines, and make the initial investment. A Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) will be generated, providing access to track NPS scheme returns.
Online Process
Navigate to the official NPS website, link PAN, Aadhaar, or phone number, and complete the registration. An OTP will be sent to the provided mobile number, facilitating the generation of the PRAN.
The National Pension Scheme, with its promising returns and tax benefits, emerges as a trusted investment avenue for retirees in India. Suited for both risk-averse and aggressive investors, NPS offers flexibility and substantial returns, making it a valuable choice for every Indian citizen seeking a secure post-retirement financial future.