The ₹2.5 Lakh EPF Limit: Uncovering India’s Hidden Retirement Tax Trap

The ₹2.5 Lakh EPF Limit: Uncovering India’s Hidden Retirement Tax Trap

You’re probably thinking your EPF interest is completely tax-free, right? Think again! Many salaried Indians are in for a rude awakening, as Budget 2021 changed the rules, and it could be costing you more than you realize. The Hidden Tax Trap: Exceeding the ₹2.5 Lakh Limit For years, the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) was considered … Read more

Senior Citizen FD Rates Soar: Up to 9.10% Returns in July 2025

Senior Citizen FD Rates Soar: Up to 9.10% Returns in July 2025

Securing your retirement funds is a top priority, and for senior citizens, Fixed Deposits (FDs) continue to be an attractive option, offering competitive interest rates even amidst recent shifts in the financial landscape. As of July 2025, you can still find excellent returns on your FDs, with some banks offering rates as high as 9.10%. … Read more

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) Gets Same Tax Benefits as NPS

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) Gets Same Tax Benefits as NPS

The Finance Ministry announced today, July 4, 2025, that the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) will now enjoy the exact same tax benefits as the National Pension System (NPS). This move ensures fairness and provides significant tax relief and incentives for those choosing the UPS. Understanding the Tax Perks The decision means employees opting for UPS … Read more

₹12 Crore Tax-Free Retirement: The Salaried Professional’s Blueprint

₹12 Crore Tax-Free Retirement: The Salaried Professional’s Blueprint

Tired of hefty taxes eating into your salary? What if you could build a ₹12 crore, largely tax-free retirement fund and pay zero income tax as a salaried professional? According to Sujit Bangar, founder of TaxBuddy.com, it’s not just a dream—it’s a achievable reality for those earning up to ₹14.65 lakh annually under India’s new … Read more

Finance Ministry to Announce SCSS Rate for Q2 FY2026 Today: Will it Dip

Finance Ministry to Announce SCSS Rate for Q2 FY2026 Today: Will it Dip

The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) interest rate for the July-September 2025 quarter is set to be announced by the Finance Ministry today, June 30, 2025. Currently, the SCSS offers an interest rate of 8.2%. This rate has been constant since April 1, 2025. What to Expect: There’s a strong expectation that the SCSS interest … Read more

Gratuity Secured: Central Govt. Employees Switching to UPS Retain Benefits

Gratuity Secured: Central Govt. Employees Switching to UPS Retain Benefits

Gratuity Confirmed for Employees Switching from NPS to UPS Great news for Central Government employees! The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has officially clarified that retirement gratuity and death gratuity benefits will continue for those who switch from the National Pension System (NPS) to the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). This clarification, issued in … Read more

Tax-Free Income from Your Home: The Indian Reverse Mortgage Explained

Tax-Free Income from Your Home: The Indian Reverse Mortgage Explained

A reverse mortgage loan allows senior citizens in India to convert their home equity into a steady income stream without having to sell their property or make monthly repayments. This financial product is particularly beneficial for those who own their homes outright but lack sufficient regular income to meet their retirement expenses. How a Reverse … Read more

From Marriage to Medical: When You Can Withdraw Your EPF

From Marriage to Medical: When You Can Withdraw Your EPF

EPF Withdrawals: Your Guide to Accessing Your Provident Fund Money As a salaried employee in India, your Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) account is a vital part of your financial planning. Each month, a portion of your salary, along with your employer’s contribution, is deposited into this fund. But what happens when you need to access … Read more

EPF Withdrawal 2025: Rules, Eligibility, and How to Apply

EPF Withdrawal 2025: Rules, Eligibility, and How to Apply

EPF Withdrawal Rules 2025: Your Guide to Accessing PF During Unemployment, Retirement, or Debt If you’re employed, you likely have a Provident Fund (PF) account, with monthly contributions from both your salary and your company. While this fund builds for your future, there are times you might need to access it sooner. Understanding when, how, … Read more