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Vivek

Vivek Lala  |323 Answers  |Ask -

Tax, MF Expert - Answered on Jan 24, 2024

Vivek Lala has been working as a tax planner since 2018. His expertise lies in making personalised tax budgets and tax forecasts for individuals. As a tax advisor, he takes pride in simplifying tax complications for his clients using simple, easy-to-understand language.
Lala cleared his chartered accountancy exam in 2018 and completed his articleship with Chaturvedi and Shah. ... more
mariappan Question by mariappan on Dec 25, 2023Hindi
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sir, we are four brothers and my father kept FD in SBI & he put one of my brother is nominee now my father died last month and my brother denies to distribute the FD amount to other three brothers and tells that father kept FD for himself only not others. pls. advice what is the legal implication of the FD amount..

Ans: Technically the nominee has the full right to the asset , but if you think you deserve a share legally then you can contest his nomination in court
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jan 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 25, 2024Hindi
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My father had fixed deposit Rs 50 lakh on Bank of India from 2020 and he received annual int. amount. My father died in Aug 2023; after my father's death, we submitted death & legal hire documents in bank and pre-closed the FD 08.10.2023 they deducted around Rs 12000 & till jun 30 we received qrtly int. amount. From 01-07-23 to 08.10.23 int. amount not given. When I asked bank people in death case pre close should not be any deduct any amount, they are telling it’s system generated we can’t do anything. My question are 1) In death case pre close of FD will be any deduction applicable or not? 2) If it’s not any deduction, where should I give complaint for claiming my amount. Please help
Ans: I can offer some general guidance that may be helpful. This involves lot of legalities and so it's important to consult a legal professional to get advice tailored to your specific situation.

In death cases, is deduction applicable during premature closure of FD?

The treatment of premature closure of fixed deposits in the event of the account holder's death can vary based on the terms and conditions set by the bank and applicable laws. In some cases, there might be no penalty for premature closure in the event of the account holder's death.

Where to file a complaint:

If you believe that the deduction is unjustified, you can take the following steps:

a. Contact the Bank:

- Reach out to the bank's customer service or visit the branch where the FD was held. Explain the situation and inquire about the deduction. Ask for clarification on the specific terms and conditions related to premature closure in the event of the account holder's death.

b. Banking Ombudsman:

- If your concerns are not addressed by the bank, you can escalate the matter to the Banking Ombudsman. The Banking Ombudsman is an official appointed by the Reserve Bank of India to redress customer complaints against deficiencies in banking services.

c. Consumer Court:

- If all else fails, you may consider filing a complaint with the consumer court. Make sure you have all relevant documents and evidence to support your case.

It's crucial to thoroughly review the terms and conditions of the fixed deposit agreement and any applicable laws related to premature closure due to the account holder's death. If you're unsure about the legal aspects, consulting with a legal professional could provide you with specific guidance on how to proceed and protect your rights.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 25, 2024

Money
Hello, I would like to discuss a matter regarding my father-in-law's fixed deposit (FD) of 50 lakhs. I am the nominee as the daughter-in-law, even though he has three sons. He chose me as the nominee because I take care of him. My husband is well aware of this situation. My father-in-law has created a will but has not mentioned in the FD. He has already gifted his elder son a floor worth 1.5 crores. We are the youngest in the family. Verbal communication suggests that the FD belongs to me. My concern is whether my brother-in-law can claim the FD after my father-in-law's passing.
Ans: I understand the complexity and sensitivity of your situation. It's good that you are thinking ahead and seeking clarity. Let's discuss the nuances of this issue from a legal and financial perspective, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what may happen and how you can prepare.

Understanding Nominee Rights in Fixed Deposits
Firstly, let's understand the role of a nominee in a fixed deposit. A nominee is the person appointed to receive the funds in the event of the account holder's demise. However, being a nominee doesn't mean you own the funds outright. Legally, you act as a trustee or caretaker of the funds for the legal heirs.

Legal Rights and Heirship
The legal heirs have a right to claim the assets of the deceased as per the inheritance laws applicable. In the absence of a clear mention in the will about the fixed deposit, your father-in-law's estate, including the FD, would typically be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession, which may vary depending on the personal law applicable to your family.

The Role of the Will
Your father-in-law's will plays a crucial role here. If the will specifies the distribution of other assets but does not mention the FD, this can lead to ambiguity. Verbal assurances, while meaningful within the family, may not hold legal weight in court. It's essential to have clear, written instructions in the will regarding the FD to avoid potential disputes.

Potential Claims from Legal Heirs
Since your father-in-law has three sons, including your husband, the other sons (your brothers-in-law) may have a legal claim to the FD, especially if it is not explicitly mentioned in the will. The fact that your father-in-law has already gifted a significant asset to the elder son may play a role in family discussions but may not necessarily influence legal proceedings unless stated in the will.

Steps to Ensure Your Rights
Here are some steps you can take to safeguard your interests:

1. Discuss with Your Father-in-Law
Have a candid conversation with your father-in-law about explicitly mentioning the FD in the will. This will help clarify his intentions and reduce the risk of disputes.

2. Update the Will
Encourage your father-in-law to update his will to include specific instructions regarding the FD. This could state that the FD should be bequeathed to you, the nominee, ensuring his verbal wishes are legally documented.

3. Legal Consultation
Consult with a legal expert specializing in inheritance and estate planning. They can provide tailored advice and ensure the will and other documents are correctly drafted and legally binding.

4. Open Communication
Maintain open communication with your husband and, if possible, with the other family members. Transparency can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts after your father-in-law's passing.

Understanding the Impact of the Gift to the Elder Son
The fact that your father-in-law has already gifted a floor worth Rs. 1.5 crores to his elder son may be significant. Here’s why:

Documentation: Ensure that the gift is well-documented and legally transferred. This can support your claim that the FD was intended for you, balancing the distribution of assets.
Family Agreement: Discuss this with the family, emphasizing that your father-in-law has tried to distribute his assets fairly, considering the significant gift already given to the elder son.
Legal Perspective on Verbal Communications
Verbal communications and intentions, while morally significant, often do not hold up in legal proceedings unless supported by written evidence. Therefore, it’s crucial to have these intentions clearly documented in the will.

Importance of Being the Nominee
As the nominee, you are initially responsible for receiving the funds. However, this doesn’t give you ownership rights over the FD. It is still crucial to establish your father-in-law's intention legally to ensure you retain control over the funds.

Financial Planning and Management
Once the legalities are sorted, managing the FD becomes important. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Financial Goals
Align the FD with your financial goals. Whether it's for emergencies, education, or future investments, plan accordingly.

2. Reinvestment Options
Consider reinvestment options that offer good returns while ensuring safety and liquidity. Fixed deposits can be renewed, or you might explore other conservative investment options.

3. Tax Implications
Be aware of the tax implications of inheriting the FD. Consult with a financial planner or tax advisor to optimize your tax liabilities.

Final Insights
It's commendable that you are taking care of your father-in-law and thinking ahead about financial matters. Ensuring that his intentions are legally documented will help avoid potential disputes and provide clarity. Here's a summary of steps you should take:

Discuss with Your Father-in-Law: Have a conversation about updating the will to include the FD.
Update the Will: Ensure the FD is explicitly mentioned, reflecting your father-in-law's intentions.
Consult a Legal Expert: Get professional advice to ensure the will is legally sound.
Maintain Open Communication: Keep transparent communication with family members to avoid conflicts.
Plan Financially: Align the FD with your financial goals and consider tax implications.
Taking these steps will help secure your interests and ensure your father-in-law's wishes are honored.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1746 Answers  |Ask -

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 08, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi i am 40M. would request your help to understand what should be the corpus required for retirement as i want to get retired in next 3-5yrs. currently my take home is 2.3L monthly & my wife also works but leaving the job in next 2-3 months. we have a daughter 10yrs, currently i stay on rent and total monthly expense is 1.1L month. once i will retire we will shift in our own parental flat, where hopefully there will be no rent. current Investments 1. 50L in REC bonds getting matured in 2029 2. 42L in stocks 3. 17L in MF 4. 16L FD 5. 15L in PPF 6. 1.3L SIP monthly i do My Wife Investments 1. 30L corpus 2. flat with current value 40L and we get rental of 10K monthly. Please guide what should be the retirement corpus required combined to retire, assuming i need 75L for my daughter post grad and marriage and we would be requiring 75K monthly for our expenses after retiring
Ans: You have explained your income, goals, current assets, and future plans with great clarity. Your early planning spirit is strong. This gives a very good base. You can reach a peaceful retirement with smart steps in the next few years.

» Your Current Position

You are 40 years old. You plan to retire in 3 to 5 years. You earn Rs 2.3 lakh per month. Your wife also works but will stop working soon. You have one daughter aged 10. Your current monthly cost is around Rs 1.1 lakh. This cost will reduce after retirement because you will shift to your parental flat.

Your investment base is already good. You have saved in bonds, stocks, mutual funds, PPF, FD, and SIP. Your wife also has her own savings and rental income from a flat. All these create a good starting point.

This early base helps you plan stronger. It also gives room for more shaping. You are on the right road.

» Your Family Goals

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s higher education and marriage.

You want Rs 75,000 per month for family living after retirement.

You want to retire in 3 to 5 years.

You will shift to your parental flat after retirement.

You will have rental income of Rs 10,000 from your wife’s flat.

These goals are clear. They give direction. They allow a strong plan.

» Your Present Investments

Your investments include:

Rs 50 lakh in REC bonds maturing in 2029.

Rs 42 lakh in stocks.

Rs 17 lakh in mutual funds.

Rs 16 lakh in fixed deposits.

Rs 15 lakh in PPF.

Rs 1.3 lakh as monthly SIP.

Your wife holds:

Rs 30 lakh corpus.

A flat worth Rs 40 lakh with rent of Rs 10,000 each month.

Your combined net worth is healthy. This gives good power to build your retirement fund in the coming years.

» Understanding Your Expense Need After Retirement

You expect Rs 75,000 per month after retirement. This includes all basic needs. You will not have rent. That reduces cost. This assumption looks fair today.

Your cost will rise with inflation. So you must plan for rising needs. A strong retirement corpus must support rising cost for 40 to 45 years because you are retiring early.

An early retirement needs a large buffer. So you need safety along with growth. Your plan must include growth assets and safety assets.

» How Much Monthly Income You Will Need Later

Rs 75,000 per month is Rs 9 lakh per year. In future years, this cost can rise. If we assume steady rise, your future cost will be much higher.

So the retirement corpus must be designed to:

Give monthly income.

Beat inflation.

Support you for 40 to 45 years.

Protect your family even in market down cycles.

Allow flexibility if your needs change.

A strong retirement fund must support both safety and long-term growth.

» How Much Corpus You Should Target

A safe target is a large and flexible corpus that can support long years without running out of money. For early retirement, the usual thumb rule suggests a very high number. This is because you need income for many decades.

You need a corpus big enough to produce rising income. You also need a cushion for unexpected health costs, lifestyle shocks, and inflation changes.

Your target retirement corpus should be in a strong range. For your needs of Rs 75,000 per month and for goals like daughter’s education and marriage, you should aim for a combined retirement readiness corpus in the higher bracket.

A safe range for your family would be a very large number crossing multiple crores. This large range gives you:

Income safety.

Inflation protection.

Peace during market cycles.

Comfort in long life.

Room for daughter’s future.

Strong backup for health.

You are already on the way due to your existing assets. You will reach close to this range with systematic building over the next 3 to 5 years.

» Why You Need This Larger Corpus

You will retire early. That means more years of living from your corpus. Your corpus must not fall early. It must grow even after retirement. It must give monthly income and long-term family protection.

This is only possible when the corpus is strong and well-structured. A weak corpus creates stress. A strong corpus creates freedom.

Also, your daughter’s future cost must be kept aside. This must be parked in a separate fund. This must not touch your retirement money.

A strong corpus makes these two worlds separate and safe.

» Your Existing Assets and Their Strength

You already have good diversification:

Bonds give safety.

Stocks give growth.

Mutual funds give managed growth.

FD gives stability.

PPF gives tax-free long-term savings.

This blend is already a good start. But you need to make the blend more structured for early retirement.

Your Rs 1.3 lakh monthly SIP is also strong. It builds your future fast. You should continue.

Your wife’s rental income is small but steady. This adds strength.

Your combined financial base can reach your retirement target if you refine your allocation now.

» Your Daughter’s Future Fund Need

You need Rs 75 lakh for your daughter’s education and marriage. You should keep this goal separate from your retirement goal.

Your current SIP and future allocations should create a dedicated fund for this goal. A long-term fund can grow well when managed actively.

Do not mix this fund with your retirement needs. Mixing leads to shortage in old age. Always keep this corpus ring-fenced.

» A Strong Asset Mix For Your Retirement Path

A balanced mix is needed. You need growth assets to beat inflation. You also need stable assets for income.

You must avoid index funds because they do not give flexibility. Index funds follow a fixed index. They cannot make active changes in different markets. They cannot move to better stocks when markets change. They force you to stay in weak sectors for long. They also do not help you in down cycles because they cannot protect you by shifting to safer options. This can hurt retirement planning.

Actively managed funds are better because:

They give active asset selection.

They give scope for better returns.

They give flexibility to change sectors.

They give downside management.

They give access to a skilled fund manager.

They support long-term planning more safely.

Direct plans also carry risk. Direct plans do not give guidance. They do not give behavioural support. They do not give market timing help. They do not give portfolio shaping. They leave all the judgement to you. One mistake can cost years of wealth.

Regular plans with guidance from a Certified Financial Planner help you shape decisions. They help you remain disciplined. They help you avoid panic. They help you decide allocation changes at the right time. This saves wealth in long-term.

» How Your Investment Journey Should Grow in the Next 3–5 Years

Continue your SIP.

Increase SIP when your income rises.

Shift part of your stock holding into planned long-term mutual funds to reduce concentration risk.

Build a defined daughter’s education fund.

Keep a part of your REC bond maturity amount for long-term.

Avoid locking too much into fixed deposits for long periods.

Build a safety fund for one year of expenses.

This will create a full structure.

» Your Rental Income Role

Your rental income of Rs 10,000 per month is small but steady. Over time it will rise. This income will support your monthly cash flow after retirement.

You can use this for utilities or health insurance premiums. This gives a cushion.

» Your Emergency Buffer

You should keep at least one year of essential cost in a safe place. This can be in a liquid account or short-term fund. This protects you in shocks.

Since you plan early retirement, a strong buffer is important. It gives peace even in low months.

» A Structured Retirement Approach

A complete retirement plan for you should include:

A clear monthly income plan after retirement.

A corpus that can grow and protect.

A rising income system that matches inflation.

A separate daughter’s future fund.

A health cover plan for your family.

A tax-efficient withdrawal plan.

A market cycle plan to protect you in tough times.

This holistic approach keeps your family strong for decades.

» What You Should Build by Retirement Year

Your aim should be to reach a strong multi-crore range in investments before retirement. You already hold a large amount. You will add more in the next 3 to 5 years through SIP, stock growth, bond maturity, and disciplined saving.

Once you reach your target range, you can start the shifting process:

Move a part to stable assets.

Keep a part in long-term growth assets.

Create a monthly income strategy.

Keep a reserve bucket.

Keep a child future bucket.

Keep a long-term growth bucket.

This structure protects you in all market conditions.

» Final Insights

Your financial journey is already strong. You have a good income. You have saved well. You have multiple asset types. You have a clear timeline. And you have clear goals. This foundation is solid.

In the next 3 to 5 years, your focus should be on growing your combined corpus to a strong multi-crore range, keeping a separate fund for your daughter, reducing risk in unplanned assets, and building a stable long-term structure.

With the present path and a disciplined structure, you can retire peacefully and support your family with confidence for many decades.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2499 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10874 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 08, 2025

Money
Hello my name is saket, I monthly salary is 43k and my saving is zero. My Rent is 15 k and 10 k i send to my parents. How can i save money and investments.
Ans: 1. Your Current Monthly Numbers

Salary: Rs 43,000

Rent: Rs 15,000

Support to parents: Rs 10,000

Left with: Rs 18,000 for food, travel, bills, and savings

You have very little room, but saving is still possible if done smartly.

2. First Step: Build a Small Emergency Buffer

You must build Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 emergency money.
This protects you from taking loans for small issues.

How to build it:

Save Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 every month in a simple bank savings account

Do this for the next few months

Don’t touch it unless truly needed

3. Create a Mini Budget (Very Simple One)

Try this split from the remaining Rs 18,000:

Daily living (food + transport): Rs 10,000 – 11,000

Personal expenses (phone, internet, basics): Rs 3,000 – 4,000

Savings + investments: Rs 3,000 – 5,000

If this feels difficult, reduce food/transport costs by small adjustments.

4. Where to Invest Once You Have Emergency Money

(For minors: This is general education. For actual investing, get guidance from a trusted adult or family member.)

After you build emergency money, start small monthly investing.

You can begin with:

Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 SIP in a simple, diversified equity fund

Increase the SIP whenever salary increases or expenses reduce

Avoid complicated products.
Keep it simple.
Focus on consistency.

5. Easy Practical Ways to Increase Saving

These small moves help a lot:

Avoid food delivery

Use public transport as much as possible

Reduce subscriptions you don’t use

Fix a daily expense limit

Keep a separate bank account only for savings

Even Rs 200 saved daily = Rs 6,000 monthly.

6. Increase Income Slowly

Try small income boosters:

Weekend tutoring

Freelancing

Part-time projects

Selling old gadgets

Learning new skills for future salary growth

Even Rs 3,000 extra income changes your savings life.

7. Build the Habit First

The amount doesn’t matter in the beginning.
The habit matters more.

Even saving Rs 500 every month is better than zero.
Once salary grows, you will already know how to save.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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