Choosing the right retirement planning scheme is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your financial future. Among the various options available, the National Pension System (NPS) and Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) stand out. These financial instruments have gained immense popularity among Indian salaried individuals interested in securing their post-retirement life financially. Today, we will compare the VPF and NPS interest rates, investment features, and other key aspects, to help make an informed decision for retirement planning.
What is VPF (Voluntary Provident Fund)?
VPF, an extension of the EPF, is a flexible scheme designed for Indian salaried individuals. It allows employees to choose their contribution amount, which can exceed the standard 12% and go up to 100% of their basic salary and DA. The VPF account, linked to the subscriber's EPF account, comes with a 5-year lock-in period. While the scheme allows for partial withdrawals under specific conditions, it's important to note that these withdrawals are subject to tax deductions.
What is NPS (National Pension Scheme)?
NPS (National Pension Scheme) is a pension plus savings plan that invests the contribution amount in government bonds, corporate bonds, and equities. Partial withdrawals are allowed only after three years of NPS account opening. Although subscribers can withdraw their savings after reaching 60 years, they can extend the term for ten more years.
Difference Between VPF and NPS
Let’s look at the differences between VPF and NPS interest rates, investment features, and other crucial parameters:
| Parameter | VPF | NPS |
| Maturity Period | At retirement | 60-70 years |
| Interest Rate | 8.5% per annum | 9-12% (Varies according to the bond and stock market fluctuations and exposure to debt and equity) |
| Investment Safety | Since VPF has government backing, their investments are 100% safe. | Since NPS investments have market links, they carry a significant risk factor. |
| Eligibility | All Indian salaried employees | All Indians between 18 and 70 can go of Tier 1 NPS account opening. Tier 1 account holders can also open a Tier 2 account for more flexibility. |
| Contribution Amount | 12 to 100% of the employee’s basic salary + DA | Minimum investment of Rs. 500 to keep the NPS account active |
| Premature Withdrawals | Premature withdrawals are allowed after five years of account opening, but only under certain circumstances. | Partial withdrawals are allowed after investing at least 80% of the NPS assets in annuity. Even after retirement, the subscriber should invest 40% of the accumulated corpus in an annuity to receive a monthly pension. |
| Tax Benefits | VPF contributions up to Rs. 1.5 Lakh are tax-deductible under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act 1961. | VPF investments up to Rs. 1.5 Lakh are also tax-deductible under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. However, additional investments up to Rs. 50,000 are tax-deductible under Section 80CCD (1B). The pension fund withdrawn at maturity is also tax-free. |
VPF or NPS – Which is Better for Retirement Planning?
Depending on the individual's preference for simplicity, financial security, and risk appetite, they can choose between VPF and NPS. VPF is similar to a dependable savings account with stable returns and a government-set interest rate. Since it keeps the contributor's money safe, it is an excellent option for people with a predictable, low-risk approach to retirement planning. On the other hand, NPS is a stock market-linked investment plan with value fluctuations. However, it has greater potential for bigger profits, giving investors more control over their investments, diversified portfolios, and varied options.
Which scheme is more suitable for investors depends on their investment objectives and risk tolerance levels. NPS account opening is more suitable for those looking for long-term retirement schemes with market-linked securities. Conversely, VPF is ideal for those who wish to receive stable returns with minimal risk.
Both VPF and NPS are potential investment tools for retirement planning. While VPF offers guaranteed returns and tax benefits, NPS diversifies the investment portfolio and gives the advantage of professional fund management. Moreover, a VPF account is available to salaried individuals only, which means it is not accessible to everyone. On the contrary, NPS is accessible to every Indian citizen between 18 and 70. Furthermore, NPS offers higher returns but with market-related risks involved, while VPF returns are lower but with enhanced safety of government-related rates.
Therefore, investors must assess their risk tolerance, financial goals, and investment horizon before picking an investment scheme for retirement. They can also combine the two options strategically to create a plan with the best of both worlds – growth and stability.
(Disclaimer: This is sponsored content. The liability for the article solely rests with the provider. The content has not been verified by India TV channel and IndiaTVNews.com)
