Partial withdrawal from NPS: How is it taxed for house construction?

Ans: Only gain amount is taxable

Ans: Congratulations on reaching 70! It's great that you opened an NPS account for tax benefits. Let's discuss your situation and withdrawal options:

1. NPS Withdrawal Rules:

Lock-in Period: NPS has a lock-in period until you turn 60 or retire from your regular job (whichever is earlier).

Partial Withdrawal: After 60, you can withdraw 60% as a lump sum and invest the remaining 40% in an annuity that provides regular income.

Full Withdrawal with Conditions: At 70, you can withdraw the entire accumulated corpus (your contributions and earnings) if it's less than Rs. 5 lakh.

2. Understanding Your Situation:

Full Withdrawal Possible: Since your total contribution is Rs. 1 lakh (2 years * Rs. 50,000) and you're 70, you can likely withdraw the entire amount with accrued interest.

Tax Implications: The entire withdrawn amount (including accrued interest) might be taxable as per your income tax slab.

3. Considering Alternatives (Optional):

Annuity for Regular Income: If you need regular income, consider using a portion of the corpus to purchase an annuity. This might provide a steady stream of income post-retirement.
Here's the key takeaway: You can likely withdraw the entire NPS corpus since it's less than Rs. 5 lakh. However, the withdrawal will be taxable. Consider consulting a tax advisor for specific tax implications.

Remember, financial planning is an ongoing process. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you make informed decisions about your retirement income and tax strategies.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: NPS Tier 2 is a flexible investment option. However, it does not have tax benefits like Tier 1. The tax treatment of your investment depends on when and how you withdraw.

Tax on Principal vs. Interest

You do not pay tax on the invested amount.
The entire withdrawal amount, including gains, is taxable as per your income tax slab.
Tax at the Time of Withdrawal

The withdrawal amount is added to your annual income.
You will be taxed as per your income tax slab in that financial year.
Taxation Frequency

There is no annual tax on the interest.
Tax is applicable only at the time of withdrawal.
Limitations of NPS Tier 2
No Tax Benefits

Unlike Tier 1, there are no deductions under Section 80C.
Market-Linked Returns with No Exit Benefits

NPS Tier 2 investments are linked to the market.
However, they do not get the same tax advantages as mutual funds.
Liquidity and Lock-in

There is no mandatory lock-in for regular investors.
For government employees, there is a 3-year lock-in.
Not an Ideal Wealth Creation Tool

Returns are uncertain.
Mutual funds provide better long-term tax efficiency.
Better Alternatives to NPS Tier 2
If your goal is wealth creation, consider these options:

Equity Mutual Funds
They offer long-term wealth growth.
Actively managed funds aim for better returns than passive funds.
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
Debt Mutual Funds
Suitable for stability with moderate returns.
Gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
More flexible than NPS Tier 2.
Gold ETF
Good for diversification.
Easy to buy and sell.
Gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
PPF (Public Provident Fund)
A safe, long-term option.
Completely tax-free returns.
Limited liquidity.
Final Insights
NPS Tier 2 does not provide tax benefits.
The entire withdrawal amount is taxable.
Mutual funds offer better tax efficiency and flexibility.
Equity funds can create wealth over 10-15 years.
Debt funds offer stability with better liquidity.
Consider gold ETF and PPF for diversification.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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