46-Year-Old with 18 Lakh Salary: How Much and How to Save for Taxes?

Ans: Old tax regime is beneficial to assessee if substantial amount of deduction/exemption is claimed. From information provided, i understand that new tax regime is likely to be beneficial for you.

For exact calculation, you can refer to income tax calculator available at https://incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/tools/income-tax-calculator-234ABC.aspx

Ans: Effective tax planning can save you a significant amount of money. Let's evaluate whether the new or old tax regime is better for you and suggest suitable investment options.

Understanding Tax Regimes

Old Tax Regime: Offers various deductions and exemptions like 80C, 80D, HRA, etc.

New Tax Regime: Has lower tax rates but no exemptions or deductions.

Evaluate Your Situation

Since you are not currently investing, your deductions are likely limited. Let's compare both regimes.

Old Tax Regime

80C Deduction: You can invest up to Rs 1.5 lakhs in various instruments like PPF, EPF, ELSS, etc.

80D Deduction: Health insurance premiums up to Rs 25,000 for yourself and your mother.

HRA and Home Loan Interest: You don't have these, so they won't apply.

New Tax Regime

Simplified Structure: Lower tax rates but no exemptions or deductions.
Comparative Analysis

Old Regime: Beneficial if you can claim significant deductions.

New Regime: Suitable if you prefer a simpler structure without investing for deductions.

Tax Slabs Comparison

Here’s a simplified comparison of tax slabs:

Old Regime:

Up to Rs 2.5 lakh: Nil
Rs 2.5 to 5 lakh: 5%
Rs 5 to 10 lakh: 20%
Above Rs 10 lakh: 30%
New Regime:

Up to Rs 2.5 lakh: Nil
Rs 2.5 to 5 lakh: 5%
Rs 5 to 7.5 lakh: 10%
Rs 7.5 to 10 lakh: 15%
Rs 10 to 12.5 lakh: 20%
Rs 12.5 to 15 lakh: 25%
Above Rs 15 lakh: 30%
Optimal Investment Strategy

Considering your current situation and future goals, here are some recommendations:

Section 80C Investments

PPF: Safe and offers good returns. Lock-in period of 15 years.

ELSS: Equity-linked saving schemes with a lock-in period of 3 years.

EPF: If you contribute to the Employee Provident Fund.

Health Insurance (Section 80D)

Health Insurance: Cover yourself and your mother. Get tax benefits up to Rs 25,000.
Additional Investments

NPS (Section 80CCD(1B)): National Pension System offers an additional Rs 50,000 deduction.

Term Insurance: Essential for financial security. Get tax benefits under 80C.

Comparing Deductions

If you can invest Rs 1.5 lakh in 80C, Rs 25,000 in 80D, and Rs 50,000 in NPS, your total deductions would be Rs 2.25 lakh. This would make the old regime more beneficial.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Expert Management: Fund managers make informed decisions.

Potential for Higher Returns: Aim to outperform the market.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Lack of Flexibility: Index funds simply track a market index.

Lower Return Potential: Aim to match market performance, not exceed it.

Final Insights

For effective tax planning, consider the old regime if you can utilize the deductions. Invest in PPF, ELSS, and health insurance. Also, consider NPS for additional benefits. Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice and better financial planning.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: Hello;

You may invest 50 K in NPS and claim deduction for the same under Sec. 80 CCD(1B) over and above the 80 C deductions.

Best wishes;