Savings Plan

What is a Savings Plan?

Savings plans are the financial instruments for wealth accumulation that offer insurance coverage. Under the best savings schemes, a death benefit is paid to the beneficiary of the policy in case of an unfortunate demise of the insured during the policy tenure.

• The savings plan offers various features that help meet the individual's specific financial needs by investing as per their suitability and risk appetite.

• Savings plans are introduced by the Indian Government, the public sector banks, or financial institutions, thereby catering to the complete security and safety of the interested capital.

• Moreover, they are low-risk financial instruments and, at the same time, offer good returns.

Types of Savings Plans^††

There are several savings plans available in the market, from low-risk to high-risk involvement, depending upon the requirement and financial condition of the individual. 

Here are some of the best savings plans in India in 2023:

• Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs)

• Money-Back Plans

• Endowment Plans

• National Savings Certificate (NSC)

• National Savings Schemes (NSS)

• Public Provident Fund (PPF)

• Post-Office Savings Scheme (POSS)

• Senior Citizen Savings Scheme

• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

• Atal Pension Yojana

• Employee Provident Fund (EPF)

• National Pension Scheme (NPS)

1. ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans)

   A ULIP is the best savings plan that combines the safety of insurance protection with wealth creation opportunities. A part of the investment goes towards providing life cover, and the residual portion is invested in a fund that invests in stocks or bonds. 

   Features of ULIP Savings Plans:

   • As these products provide tax benefits and market-linked returns, they are one of the investment options for the long term.

   • ULIPs offer many investment funds to choose from, allowing the flexibility to shift between equity and debt based on market conditions and risk profiles. 

   • ULIPs are structured in such a way that the protection and the savings elements are easily distinguishable and hence, can be managed according to one's specific needs. 

   • This way, ULIPs offer unprecedented flexibility and transparency.

2. Money-Back Plans

   Money-back life insurance policies are popular savings plans as they offer the dual benefit of insurance and redemption of money at regular intervals. These plans are meant for individuals who require money at certain intervals in their lifetime to meet fixed short-term and long-term financial requirements such as buying a car or house.

   Features of Money-Back Savings Plans:

   • A portion of the sum assured is paid out at regular intervals in a money-back policy. 

   • If the policyholder survives the term, he gets the balance sum assured in the best saving plan.

   • In case of death over the policy term, the beneficiary gets the full sum assured, irrespective of the payouts already made. 

   • The bonus is also calculated on the total sum assured, not the balance money left. 

   • Because of these two reasons, premiums on money-back savings plans are higher than the endowment plans.

3. Endowment Plans

   Endowment Plans are regular saving plans that help build a corpus and give guaranteed maturity benefits and bonuses. The product is the best saving plan in India as they give returns that are equivalent to a fixed yield or deposit. In addition, they also combine insurance risk cover with add-on riders to primarily build a safety cushion in case something goes wrong. 

   Features of Endowment Savings Plan:

   • They are clearly among the best investment options available to people looking for insurance coverage as well as investment and saving plans in India.

   • An endowment policy covers risk for a specified period, at the end of which the insured receives the sum assured plus all accrued bonuses. 

   • They are considered highly expensive (considering the annual premium payment) as compared to a term or whole-life plan. 

   • If the policyholder dies during the policy term, then a payout of the sum insured and the bonus is issued immediately to the beneficiary.

4. National Savings Certificate (NSC)

   The National Savings Certificate is a government-initiated savings scheme, which is a fixed-income investment plan that can be opened with any post office.

   Features of National Savings Certificate Savings Plan:

   • Along with the benefit of wealth accumulation, the investments made towards NSC up to the maximum limit of Rs.1.5 lakhs are eligible for tax exemption U/S 80 C of the Income Tax Act. 

   • National Savings Certificate is best suited for mid-income investors who have a low-risk appetite. 

   • NSC is similar to other fixed-income investment options such as Public Provident Fund (PPF) and Post-Office Fixed Deposits.

5. National Savings Schemes (NSS)

   National Savings Schemes are government-backed best savings schemes wherein a total sum assured amount is paid after the completion of its maturity tenure. Moreover, the applicable interest rate is compounded annually. 

   Features of National Savings Scheme (NSS):

   • The interest rates offered by NSS are updated and revised on a quarterly basis.

   •  It also provides the flexibility to increase the scheme's tenure as per the investment objectives. 

   • The investors get the benefit of creating a financial cushion for the future.

   • They can also avail the advantage of tax exemption under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

6. Public Provident Fund (PPF)

   Public Provident Fund is a long-term savings scheme introduced by the National Saving Organization, which offers a term period of 15 years. 

   Features of PPF Savings Plan:

   • As one of the safest options for investment, PPF offers a fixed interest rate of 7.9%. 

   • The interest earned on PPF is tax exempted.

   • The contribution made towards the PPF account up to the maximum limit of Rs.1.5 lakhs is tax exempted under section 80C of the IT Act. 

   • PPF also offers flexibility as it can move from one bank and post office to another. 

   • One can make a minimum contribution of Rs.500 and invest up to a maximum of Rs.1.5 lakhs.

7. Post Office Savings Scheme

   As one of the most reliable and secure saving plans, it is best suited for investors who have a low-risk appetite. 

   Features of Post Office Savings Scheme:

   • Along with the benefit of higher returns, the post-office savings scheme is easy to access and hassle-free.

   • One can also open a POSS account in the name of the minor. 

   • With an interest rate of 4%, this savings plan is best suited for individuals who do not have a high-risk appetite.

8. Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)

   A senior citizen savings scheme is specifically introduced, keeping in mind the needs of the senior citizens in India. 

   Features of Senior Citizen Savings Scheme:

   • An individual, at least 60 years of age, can avail of this saving scheme. 

   • However, individuals aged between 55 and 60 years and those who have opted for voluntary retirement schemes can open senior citizen savings schemes. 

   • It offers the benefit of financial security after retirement.

   • The SCSS also offers the benefit of tax exemption under section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

9. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

   Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is a savings scheme introduced by the Indian Ministry of Finance. This scheme was specifically introduced with the objective to secure the financial future of the girl child so that she can achieve the future milestones of life.

   Features of Sukanya Samridhhi Yojana Savings Plan:

   • Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana offers an annual interest rate of 8.1% on the principal amount. 

   • One can open an SSY scheme at any post office or authorized bank in India. 

   • One can make a minimum investment of Rs.1,000 and can invest up to a maximum of Rs.1,50,000 in a financial year.

10. Atal Pension Yojana

    This is a government-initiated savings scheme specifically designed to benefit the weaker section of society. 

    Features of Atal Pension Yojana Savings Plan:

    • Individuals who are working in unorganized sectors and those who need financial support from the government-sponsored welfare program can invest in Atal Pension Yojana. 

    • Individuals between the age group of 18 years- 40 years are eligible to apply for this savings plan. 

    • The premium rate of this savings plan is very low, and the pension is provided to the individual post-retirement years.

11. Employee Provident Fund (EPF)

    Introduced by the Employee Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), Employee Provident Fund is a savings scheme wherein salaried individuals are obligated to make a financial contribution to the Provident Fund (PF) account. 

    Features of EPF Savings Plan:

    • With the help of EPF, individuals can plan to make smart retirement planning and ensure they have a financially secure future after retirement. 

    • In EPF, the employer and the employee make an equal contribution toward the scheme. 

    • 12% of the employee's basic salary is contributed to the scheme, and the employers contribute a similar amount towards the EPF account. 

    • The annual interest rate applicable to the contribution made towards the EPF account is between 8%-12%.

12. National Pension System (NPS)

    National Pension System is a savings scheme that focuses on providing a secure source of monthly income after retirement. 

    Features of National Pension System (NPS) Savings Plan:

    • To avail of the benefits offered by the NPS scheme, the employees have to make a small contribution as a premium payment towards the scheme while being employed. 

    • The lump-sum fund accumulated throughout the entire tenure of the scheme is broken down as annuities.

    • These annuity installments are paid to the applicant every month post-retirement.

Best Savings Plans in India

Disclaimer: †† Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. This list of plans listed here comprise of insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. The sorting is done in alphabetical order (Fund Data Source: Value Research). For a complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website, www.irdai.gov.in

1. Key Features of Savings Plan

   Here are the main highlights of the best savings plans and why one should consider buying them over any other plan in the market.

2. Flexible Premium Returns

   Premiums under the best savings plan, like SBI Life Insurance Savings Plan, can be paid annually, semi-annually, quarterly, or monthly as per the convenience of the policyholder.

3. Maturity Benefit

   Under the savings plan, maturity benefits are guaranteed that offer certain fixed savings to the policyholder. Additional maturity benefits are also available in some savings plans that help the policyholder achieve the desired financial corpus.

4. Life Cover

   A savings plan is also known as a life cover plan. It offers life coverage and financial security to the family even after the untimely demise of the policyholder.

5. Guaranteed Returns

   The returns under the savings plan are risk-free as they are guaranteed. For example, The SBI Life Insurance Savings Plan gives assured returns to the customers upon plan maturity. It means that the policyholder will be provided with the amount promised during the policy inception only if all the premiums are paid to date.

6. Rider Benefits

   The best savings plan also offers you inbuilt and additional riders providing you with additional security features for you and your family in case of any future mishappenings. For example, an Accidental Total and Partial Disability (ATPD) Rider gives you financial security when needed the most in case of any severe accidental disability.

Benefits of Having a Saving Plan

The following are the benefits that the policyholder will get if they opt for a savings plan:

1. Tax Benefit

   All the saving plans offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Along with Section 80C deductions, some of the top saving plans also provide maturity benefits under Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act.

2. Financial Protection Benefit

   Under a savings plan, financial protection is provided to the policyholder and their dependents during the policy tenure. Even if the policyholder passes away untimely during the policy tenure, the financial burden is taken care of by the plan that lets them lead a financially independent life.

3. Retirement Benefit

   A savings plan helps in building a financial corpus for the policyholder even after retirement. With the help of a savings plan, one can save a small amount at regular intervals that will accumulate into a larger sum, helping you at the time of retirement.

4. Encourages Financial Discipline

   Enrolling in a savings plan creates a habit of regularly keeping some funds away no matter what extra expenditures you wish to make. This is a positive way of lifestyle where you keep little by little money away as a safety deposit.

Important Factors to Consider While Investing in Saving Plans

In order to live a stress-free life and deal with the eventualities of life, it is very important to do proper financial planning. 

However, there are certain factors that should be considered while making an investment in savings plans.

1. Start Early Investment

   The best way to ensure a financially secure future is to start saving regularly from a young age. By making an early investment in the savings plan, an individual can create a financial cushion for the future and can avail of the benefit of tax savings. 

2. Risk Profile

   It is important to determine one's risk appetite to find the best saving plan. Age and personal factors are important determinants of the kind of risk one can take. 

   • Generally, young people in their 20s and early 30s can opt for the higher-risk but lucrative return options. In addition, they can choose investment plans, which are more aggressive – those that invest one's money more in the equity segment of the stock market and lesser in debt. 

   • A Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP) is more suited for young customers willing and able to take such financial risks. 

   • On the other hand, a traditional endowment or a money-back plan is better suited for the needs of a conservative investor, who prefers to have the guarantee of the money being secure even though it generates lower returns.

3. Investment Tenure

   Saving plans offer a mid-to-long-term investment horizon and serve as one of the tax-saving investment options. 

   • The ULIPs are very good as they help build up a significant corpus over the policy's life. The insured party can start with a small premium amount and build it up over the policy tenure. 

   • This is possible as most insurance companies understand the fluctuating nature of earnings and savings depending on the age of the investor and provide options where the premium and the investment amount can be increased or decreased at the person's convenience.

4. Financial Goals

   One should be clear about the reason for selecting a savings plan. The financial objectives help in determining tax-saving investment options. Goals range from building a corpus for retirement or having sufficient money for a child's higher education or marriage to building a house.

5. Plan Features

   Different plans have different features. 

   • The best tax-saving investment plans allow one to make partial withdrawals by surrendering a certain portion of the policy while retaining other benefits. 

   • Some investment options have a fixed cover ranging from 5/10 years to 30/35 years, depending on what one wants. 

   • Others provide cover for their entire life. With comprehensive coverage and flexible options, one can enjoy protection as well as growth through savings. 

   • Some plans also offer bonuses, the amount of which is decided by the insurance companies based on the performance of their investments in the market.

6. The Flexibility of the Plan

   For long-term goals, this plan allows one to take care of unexpected short-term needs. In addition, they offer the flexibility of surrendering the policy if the situation so demands. However, it is better to stick with the tax saving plan for the longer term so that they give better returns.

7. Charges of the Best Saving Investment Plans

   Understanding the costs and charges involved is vital when selecting a savings plan in India. 

   • These best savings plans have minimum charges and provide flexibility in terms of cash withdrawal, bonus receipt, and term of the policy. 

   • Also, the long-term effect of these charges is much less, making a tax-saving investment plan a great way to increase wealth at a low cost.

Documents Required to Buy a Savings Plan

In order to buy the best savings schemes, an individual must keep the following documents prepared:

• Completely filled Policy Application Form.

• Income proof (6 months' bank statement/ ITR details/ last 3 months' salary slips)

• Identity proof and address proofs for the KYC process.

  • Passport

  • Indian Voter Id Card

  • Driving license

  • Aadhaar Card

How to Compare Saving Plans in India?

A lot of saving plans in India also work as a tax-saving investment option. Investors can compare these plans online using an investment calculator and get the best savings plans as per their priorities.

Here are the following points one should consider while comparing saving plans in India:

1. Premium Amount

   Choosing a savings plan that fits your budget is of utmost importance. A savings plan that fulfills the requirements of the policyholder and, at the same time, does not overburden them financially is the best kind of plan.

2. Size of Life Cover

   Another important factor taken into consideration while comparing different saving plans is the life cover offered under them. The more life coverage provided under the plan, the better it is for the policyholder.

3. Company's Background

   A savings plan is a long-term plan that requires involvement with the provider company for a longer tenure than usual. Therefore, it is important to check the company's background, stability, financial position in the market, and authentication before putting in your hard-earned money to protect yourself and your family from any potential fraud in the future.

Factors Affecting the Premium Amount of a Savings Plan

There are two ways by which a policyholder can choose to pay the premium amount of the savings plan:

• Regular intervals

• Lump-sum

Even though one can choose either option for payment of premiums, the premium amount of the savings plan depends upon the following factors:

1. Duration of the Savings Plan

   The duration of the policy tenure plays a vital part in the premium amounts of the savings plan scheme. The premium amount varies if the duration of premium payment is short-term from long-term premium payment tenures.

2. Source of Income of the Policy Holder

   The job history and the job type of the policyholder affect the premium amount allocated to them by the insurers of the savings plan. If the job of the policyholder involves high risk-taking ability, the premium of the savings plan tends to be more.

3. Future Goals

   The future goals and ambitions of the policyholder directly affect the policy premium payment of the savings plan. For example, suppose the policyholder wishes to have a financial corpus of 20X more than the actual amount invested after the completion of the tenure. In that case, the premium amount rates will be higher than normal.

4. Health History of the Policy Holder

   Sometimes, the insurance providers check the medical history of the person willing to purchase their savings scheme. If there are any medical issues, then the amount premium generally becomes higher.

Things to Avoid When Investing in a Savings Plan

Let us have a look at the important things that an individual must avoid while investing in the best savings scheme:

1. Over-Exposure to Single Market Instrument

   The old idiom to avoid putting all eggs in one basket holds true for investing in saving plans as well. One should avoid over-exposure to a single market instrument. It is wise to spread investment across a range of investment instruments to hedge against extraordinary loss in a particular instrument.

2. Over-Investing

   Over-investing can burden finances for present needs. People often invest more than what they can comfortably put aside to meet regular expenses, resulting in the cancellation of policies. The cumulative effect of such cancellations is the loss of hard-earned money in penalties.

Wrapping It Up!

A holistic financial plan looking at your future goals and family members' aspirations and considering the ever-unpredictable market is a crucial step for any individual. Choosing the best savings plans with secured earnings becomes important in the long run. The savings schemes will help ensure continuous money support to your family for a lifetime. 

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