Monthly Income Plan

About Monthly Income Plan (MIP)

• A monthly income plan is an investment option that provides you with a regular monthly income while offering the potential for capital appreciation.

• Insurance companies, banks, financial institutions, and mutual funds offer this investment option.

• Monthly Income Plans usually invest in a combination of fixed-income instruments such as bonds, debentures, and government securities, as well as equities. 

• By diversifying the investment portfolio, the plan aims to provide a balance between income generation and capital appreciation.

Comparison Between

Fixed Deposits, Guaranteed Return Plans & Debt Mutual Fund

Guaranteed Return Plans, Fixed Deposits &
Debt Mutual Fund

Guaranteed Return Plans

Returns Before Tax

7.5% ^(TAX-FREE)

Returns After Tax

7.5%

Guaranteed Returns

Yes

Life Cover

Yes

Tax on Profit

Tax Free*

Risk

No Risk

Still Better than FD’s and Debt Mutual Fund

Fixed Deposits

Returns Before Tax

7% ^(TAXABLE)

Returns After Tax

4.8%

Guaranteed Returns

Yes

Life Cover

No

Tax on Profit

Taxable

Risk

Low Risk

Debt Mutual Fund

Returns Before Tax

8% ^(TAXABLE)

Returns After Tax

5.5%

Guaranteed Returns

No

Life Cover

No

Tax on Profit

Taxable

Risk

High Risk

VIEW PLANS

*For annual premium upto ₹5 Lacs

Details of Monthly Income Scheme 

1. ULIP Plans

   ULIP or Unit Linked Insurance Plan is the investment plan that provides you with the dual benefits of life insurance and an investment product for a periodic monthly income.

   List of ULIP Monthly Income Plans in 2024:

   Investment Plans	AUM	3 years return	5 years return	10 years return
   Tata AIA Fortune Pro	Rs. 14,196 Cr	34.6%	21.4%	20.4%
   Bajaj Allianz Smart Wealth Goal	Rs. 16,374 Cr	25.3%	13.1%	17.8%
   Aditya Birla Wealth Aspire Plan	Rs. 18,899 Cr	30.2%	13.6%	18.9%
   HDFC life Click2Invest	Rs. 48,368 Cr	37.9%	13%	17.4%
   Max Life Online Savings Plan	Rs. 23,466 Cr	33.8%	17.9%	17.2%
   PNB MetLife Mera Wealth Plan	Rs. 2,668 Cr	40.7%	19.8%	16.8%
   Edelweiss Life Tokio Wealth Secure+	Rs. 1,187 Cr	27.9%	10.4%	14.8%
   ICICI Pru Signature	Rs. 97,475 Cr	25.3%	11.9%	13.8%
   LIC SIIP	Rs. 4,388 Cr	15.1%	9.3%	NA
   SBI Life eWealth Insurance	Rs. 53,768 Cr	21.2%	11.2%	13.4%
   Kotak Life E-invest	Rs. 13,365 Cr	25.9%	13.6%	15.3%
   Aviva i-Growth	Rs. 781 Cr	24.7%	11.9%	14%

   Key Features of ULIP Plans as a Monthly Income Plan:

   • Dual Benefit: ULIP plans offer the dual benefit of life insurance coverage and investment opportunities to generate wealth.

   • Monthly Income Option: These high-return investments can be customized as monthly income plans. This allows you to receive regular payouts every month.

   • Flexibility: ULIP plans offer flexibility in choosing the premium amount, investment funds, and policy duration.

   • Investment Options: These plans provide various investment options, such as equity, debt, or balanced funds. This feature allows you to align your investments with your risk appetite and financial goals.

   • Tax Benefits: ULIP plans offer tax benefits for the premium paid under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The maturity amount is tax-free under Section 10(10D) of the IT Act, 1961.

   • Fund Switching: These plans allow you to switch between different investment funds based on market conditions or changing financial goals. This provides you with the opportunity to maximize your returns.

   • Transparency: ULIP plans to provide clarity regarding the allocation of funds, charges levied, and the performance of the investment funds, enabling informed decision-making.

   • Lock-in Period: ULIP plans have a mandatory lock-in period of 5 years, encouraging long-term investment and wealth creation.

   • Partial Withdrawals: This investment plan offers the option of partial withdrawals after the completion of the lock-in period, providing liquidity for unforeseen financial needs.

   • Bonus and Loyalty Additions: Some ULIP plans to provide bonuses and loyalty additions to enhance your wealth accumulation over time.

2. Annuity Plans

   Annuity plans are investment plans that provide a guaranteed income to individuals through regular payments.

   List of Annuity Monthly Income Plans in 2024:

   Investment Plans	Entry Age	Premium Payment Term (PPT)	Deferment Period (PT)	Minimum Purchase Price (Annual)	Minimum Annual Annuity Amount (in Rs.)
   Bajaj Allianz Immediate Annuity Plan	30 - 85 years	Single Pay	Immediate Annuity	As per Board approved Underwriting	Rs. 12,000
   HDFC Life New Immediate Annuity Plan	20 - 85 years	Single Pay	Immediate Annuity	< Rs. 2.5 lakhs	Rs. 10,000
   TATA AIA Saral Pension Plan	40 - 80 years	Single Pay	Immediate Annuity	Rs. 12,000	Rs. 12,000
   ICICI Pru Guaranteed Pension Plan Flexi	40 - 70 years	5 - 15 years	5 - 15 years (in multiple of 1 year)	Rs. 12,000	Rs. 12,000
   Max Life Guaranteed Lifetime Income Plan	25 - 85 years	5 - 10 years	PPT - 10 years	Rs. 12,000	Rs. 12,000

   Key Features of Annuity Plans as a Monthly Income Plan:

   • Regular Monthly Income: Annuity plans provide a guaranteed monthly income, ensuring a steady flow of funds for meeting your financial needs.

   • Pension Option: These plans serve as a pension option, helping you to create a source of income during your retirement years.

   • Flexibility in Payout Options: Annuity plans offer various payout options such as lifetime, joint-life, or fixed-term annuity. This allows you to choose the most suitable option based on your requirements.

   • Customizable Payout Period: You can select the desired payout period, ranging from a few years to your entire lifetime, ensuring flexibility in meeting specific financial goals.

   • Tax Benefits: Contributions made towards annuity plans are eligible for tax benefits under Section 80CCC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, up to a certain limit.

   • Death Benefit: In case of your demise, the annuity offers a death benefit to the nominee, ensuring financial protection for the family.

   • No Market Risks: Unlike other investment options, annuity plans are not linked to market performance, providing stability and protection against market fluctuations.

   • Guaranteed Returns: Annuity plans provide assured returns throughout the chosen payout period, offering a secure source of income.

   • Flexibility in Premium Payment: Depending on the plan, you can choose between single premium or regular premium payment options. This allows you to select the most convenient mode of payment.

   • Long-Term Financial Security: Annuity plans provide long-term financial security, ensuring that you can maintain your standard of living and meet your financial obligations during retirement or other stages of life.

3. Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (PO-MIS)

   Post Office Monthly Income Scheme is a guaranteed return plan that is launched by the Post Office on behalf of the Government of India.

   Key Features of the Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS):

   • Guaranteed Monthly Income: POMIS offers a fixed and guaranteed monthly income to investors.

   • Investment Limit: You can invest a maximum of Rs. 9 lakhs (joint account holders can invest up to Rs. 15 lakhs) in POMIS.

   • Interest Rate: The interest rate of this monthly income scheme is set by the government and is subject to change. Currently, the interest rate is 7.4% per annum.

   • Tenure: POMIS has a fixed tenure of 5 years.

   • Premature Withdrawal: Premature withdrawal is allowed after 1 year, but it attracts certain penalties.

   • Tax Implications: The interest earned from POMIS monthly income scheme is taxable as per your income tax slab.

   • Nomination Facility: You can nominate beneficiaries to receive the invested amount in case of your demise.

   • No TDS Deduction: Unlike other Fixed Deposit Schemes (FDs), POMIS does not deduct tax at source (TDS) on the interest earned.

   • Accessibility: POMIS is available at all post offices across India, making it easily accessible for you.

   • Low Risk: POMIS is considered a low-risk investment option as it is backed by the Government of India.

4. Senior Citizen Saving Scheme

   The Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS) is a government-backed monthly income scheme in India specifically designed for senior citizens aged 60 years and above. This is a safe and reliable investment plan with high returns.

   Key Features of the Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS):

   • Eligibility: The SCSS is exclusively designed for Indian senior citizens aged 60 years and above.

   • Investment Limit: You can invest a maximum of Rs. 30 lakhs in the SCSS monthly income scheme.

   • Interest Rate: Currently, the interest rate is 8.2% p.a., which is set by the Government of India periodically.

   • Tenure: The SCSS has a fixed tenure of 5 years, which can be extended for an additional 3 years.

   • Regular Income: The SCSS provides a steady source of monthly income for senior citizens.

   • Premature Withdrawal: Premature withdrawal is allowed after one year, subject to certain penalties.

   • Tax Implications: The interest earned from the SCSS monthly income scheme is taxable as per your income tax slab.

   • Nomination Facility: You can nominate beneficiaries to receive the invested amount in case of your unfortunate death.

   • Low Risk: The SCSS is considered a low-risk investment option as it is backed by the Government of India.

   • Accessibility: The SCSS is available at designated banks and post offices across India, making it easily accessible for senior citizens.

5. Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

   PMVVY, or Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, is a government-sponsored pension plan as well as a monthly income scheme in India. It is specifically designed for senior citizens and provides them with a regular source of income during their retirement years.

   Key Features of the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY):

   • Targeted Audience: PMVVY is a monthly income scheme that is specifically designed for senior citizens in India.

   • Assured Return: This investment scheme offers an assured return of 7.4% per annum.

   • Investment Limit: The maximum investment limit of this monthly income scheme per senior citizen is Rs. 15 lakhs.

   • Tenure: PMVVY has a fixed tenure of 10 years.

   • Monthly Income: The scheme provides a regular monthly income to senior citizens.

   • Payout Frequency: Pension payouts can be chosen on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly basis.

   • Loan Facility: After 3 years, investors can avail of a loan against their PMVVY policy.

   • Premature Exit: Premature exit is allowed in case of critical illness of yourself or of your spouse.

   • Administration: The Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India administers PMVVY.

   • Risk-Free Investment: PMVVY is a risk-free investment option for senior citizens.

6. Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)

   SWPs, or Systematic Withdrawal Plans, are investment strategies commonly offered by ULIP plans, mutual funds and other investment schemes. They allow you to withdraw a fixed or variable amount from their investment at regular intervals. SWPs are designed to provide you with a steady stream of income while keeping your investment intact.

   Key Features of the Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP):

   • Regular Income: SWPs provide you with a regular income stream in the form of systematic withdrawals.

   • Flexible Withdrawal Amount: You have the flexibility to choose the withdrawal amount as per your financial needs.

   • Customizable Frequency: SWPs allow you to select the frequency of withdrawals, such as monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.

   • Capital Appreciation: SWPs can be structured to include both principal and capital appreciation for long-term growth.

   • Investment Options: SWPs are available across various investment instruments like ULIPs, mutual funds, and other investment schemes.

   • Tax Efficiency: Depending on the investment instrument and holding period, SWPs can offer tax benefits such as tax-free dividends or long-term capital gains.

   • Professional Management: SWPs are managed by experienced fund managers, ensuring efficient portfolio management.

   • Withdrawal Flexibility: You have the flexibility to adjust or stop withdrawals as per your changing financial requirements.

   • Growth Potential: SWPs provide the opportunity for investment growth, allowing you to benefit from potential market appreciation.

   • Risk Management: SWPs can be designed to manage investment risk by specifying withdrawal amounts and adjusting investment allocations.

7. Long-Term Government Bonds

   Long-Term Government Bonds in India are debt securities issued by the Indian government with a maturity period exceeding ten years. These bonds are used to borrow funds from investors to finance government projects and meet fiscal requirements.

   Key Features of the Long-Term Government Bonds:

   • Maturity Period: Long-term government bonds have a maturity period typically exceeding ten years, offering a long-term investment horizon.

   • Fixed Interest Payments: Governments pay regular interest payments to bondholders at a predetermined fixed rate throughout the bond's tenure.

   • Coupon Rate: The coupon rate, also known as the nominal interest rate, is determined at the time of issuance and remains fixed for the bond's duration.

   • Principal Repayment: At the bond's maturity, the government repays the principal amount initially invested by the bondholder.

   • Government Backing: Long-term government bonds are backed by the full faith and credit of the issuing government, providing assurance of repayment.

   • Risk and Return: While they are generally considered safer investments, long-term government bonds may carry some risk associated with interest rate changes and inflation. Higher returns are typically expected compared to shorter-term government bonds.

   • Market Trading: Long-term government bonds are actively traded in the financial markets, allowing investors to buy and sell them before maturity if desired.

   • Fixed Income Investment: Long-term government bonds are often preferred by investors seeking stable, long-term income and preservation of capital.

8. Mutual Fund Monthly Income Plans

   Mutual Fund Monthly Income Plan is a type of mutual fund scheme that aims to provide regular monthly income to investors while generating moderate capital appreciation. These plans typically invest in a mix of debt and equity instruments to achieve income and growth objectives.

   Key Features of the Mutual Fund Monthly Income Plans:

   • Regular Income: MIPs aim to provide you with a steady monthly income through dividend payouts.

   • Asset Allocation: These plans invest in a mix of debt and equity instruments, balancing income generation with potential capital appreciation.

   • Risk-Return Profile: MIPs have a moderate risk profile, seeking to balance stability and growth opportunities for you.

   • Dividend Payouts: You receive regular dividends on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, providing a consistent income stream.

   • Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Some MIPs offer the option of a systematic withdrawal plan, allowing you to withdraw a predetermined amount periodically.

   • Professional Management: MIPs are managed by experienced fund managers who make investment decisions to optimize income generation and capital appreciation.

   • Flexibility and Liquidity: You can enter or exit the scheme based on your financial goals and liquidity needs, subject to the terms and conditions of the mutual fund.

   • Expense Ratio: MIPs have an expense ratio that covers the fund's operational costs, which you should consider when evaluating overall returns.

9. Equity Share Dividends

   Equity Share Dividends refer to the distribution of profits by companies to shareholders who hold equity shares on a monthly basis. Companies generate profits through their business operations, and a portion of these profits is shared with shareholders in the form of dividends.

   Key Features of the Equity Share Dividends:

   • Monthly Income: Equity Share Dividends provide a monthly income to you as an investor through the regular distribution of profits in the form of dividends.

   • Ownership in Companies: Investors holding equity shares become owners of the company and are eligible to receive a share in the company's profits.

   • Cash Dividends: Dividends are typically paid in cash, providing you with a tangible monthly income stream.

   • Regular Payouts: Companies declare dividends on a regular basis, often on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, ensuring consistent income for you.

   • Dividend Yield: You can assess the income potential of equity shares through dividend yield, which represents the dividend payment as a percentage of the stock price.

   • Potential for Capital Appreciation: Along with monthly income, equity share investments offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as the value of shares may increase over time.

   • Taxation Considerations: Dividend income in India is subject to taxation, and you should consider the tax implications based on your individual tax bracket and any applicable exemptions or deductions.

   • Diversification Benefits: By investing in multiple companies, you can diversify your equity share portfolio, reducing the risk associated with individual company performance.

   • Long-term Investment Perspective: Equity share dividends as a monthly income plan are suited for investors with a long-term perspective, as they can benefit from both income generation and potential capital growth.

Important Points to Consider Before Buying a Monthly Income Plan

Some of the important points to consider before buying a Monthly Income Plan (MIP) in India are as follows:

• Investment objective: What are your investment goals? Are you looking for a regular income stream, or are you looking to grow your money over the long term?

• Risk appetite: How much risk are you comfortable taking? MIPs can be a good option for investors who are looking for a relatively stable income stream with some growth potential. However, it is important to remember that all investments carry some risk.

• Returns: What kind of returns are you expecting? MIPs typically offer lower returns than equity investments, but they also offer lower risk.

• Investment horizon: How long do you plan to invest? MIPs are typically designed for investors with a long-term investment horizon.

• Tax implications: What are the tax implications of investing in a MIP? MIPs offer some tax benefits, but it is important to understand the tax implications before you invest.

• Fees and charges: What are the fees and charges associated with the MIP? It is important to compare the fees and charges of different MIPs before you invest.

• Liquidity: How liquid is the MIP? MIPs are typically more liquid than equity investments, but they are not as liquid as bank deposits.

Benefits of Monthly Income Plan

The essential benefits of a Monthly Income Plan are listed below:

1. Regular Income 

   MIPs offer a regular income stream, which can be helpful for investors who need a steady stream of income to meet their living expenses or other financial obligations.

2. Potential for Growth 

   MIPs can also offer the potential for growth as they invest in a mix of debt and equity securities. However, it is important to note that MIPs are not as risky as equity investments, and they typically offer lower returns.

3. Tax Benefits 

   MIPs offer some tax benefits, such as the ability to claim a deduction under Section 80C and Section 10 (10D) of the Income Tax Act 1961.

4. Liquidity 

   Some MIPs are more liquid than equity investments, but they are not as liquid as bank deposits. This means that you can sell your units in a MIP relatively easily, but you may not be able to get the full value of your investment if you sell them in a hurry.

5. Professional Management 

   MIPs are managed by professional fund managers, who have the expertise to select the right mix of assets for the fund. This can help to reduce the risk of your investment.

In Conclusion

Monthly income plans in India offer individuals a range of options to generate regular income. These plans cater to diverse investor preferences, risk appetites, and investment durations. From ULIPs and annuity plans to government-backed schemes like POMIS and SCSS, there are opportunities for a stable income with varying levels of risk.