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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2024

Colonel Sanjeev Govila (retd) is the founder of Hum Fauji Initiatives, a financial planning company dedicated to the armed forces personnel and their families.
He has over 12 years of experience in financial planning and is a SEBI certified registered investment advisor; he is also accredited with AMFI and IRDA.... more
NIRAJ Question by NIRAJ on Jul 17, 2023Hindi
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Sir opened my PPF account on 9th April 2009 and has been paying regularly every year since then. This year I paid my 15th Instalments on the 4th. April 2023. Now when I can withdraw my total amount and close the same? Some say I will have to deposit again in April 2024 and then can close. Some say I can withdraw and close any day after 31st March 2024. Please clarify this. Will before closing I have to again pay an instalment in April 2024.

Ans: You can now withdraw your entire PPF account balance and close it without needing to contribute again in April 2024. Your PPF account will be maturing on April 9, 2024, after completing 15 years from the opening date (April 9, 2009).

Just remember to visit your bank or post office with your passbook and withdrawal form to initiate the process.
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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9189 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 31, 2023Hindi
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I have a query regarding PPF. I am 46 years old. I have a PPF account from 2000 and invest in it . and also I started a PPF account in my sons name which I started when he was 3 years young in 2010 operated by my wife. Currently I invest max amount in it. What are the rules , in regarding 1) complete withdrawal when the account matures , and at that time the check will be given in whose name 2) partial withdrawal before maturity and at that time the check will be given in whose name ?
Ans: Understanding PPF Withdrawal Rules
You have made wise decisions by investing in PPF accounts for yourself and your son. Let's explore the rules regarding complete and partial withdrawals from these accounts.

Complete Withdrawal upon Maturity
Your PPF Account

Your PPF account, started in 2000, will mature after 15 years, and you can extend it in blocks of 5 years.

Maturity Withdrawal Process

Timing: Upon maturity, you can withdraw the entire amount.

Check Issuance: The maturity proceeds will be given in your name.

Extension Option

Without Withdrawal: If you extend without withdrawal, the balance continues to earn interest.

With Withdrawal: You can withdraw once a year without closing the account.

Your Son’s PPF Account
Your son’s PPF account, started in 2010, follows similar rules. When it matures, the proceeds can be withdrawn fully.

Complete Withdrawal for Minor's Account

Timing: The account matures after 15 years from the start date, so in 2025.

Check Issuance: The maturity amount is payable to your son. If he is a minor, the cheque will be issued in the guardian’s name.

Partial Withdrawal Rules
Your PPF Account

Partial withdrawals are allowed from your PPF account after completing 5 financial years.

Rules for Partial Withdrawal

Timing: Allowed from the 7th year onward.

Amount: Up to 50% of the balance at the end of the 4th year or the immediate preceding year, whichever is lower.

Check Issuance: The cheque will be in your name.

Your Son’s PPF Account
Partial withdrawals from your son’s PPF account follow the same rules, but there are additional conditions for minors.

Partial Withdrawal for Minor’s Account

Timing: Allowed from the 7th year onward.

Amount: Up to 50% of the balance at the end of the 4th year or the immediate preceding year, whichever is lower.

Check Issuance: The cheque will be issued in the guardian’s name, operated by your wife.

Ensuring Smooth Withdrawals
Documentation

Ensure proper documentation for withdrawals. For your son’s account, you need proof of your wife being the guardian.

Planning

Plan withdrawals considering the tax implications and future needs. PPF interest is tax-free, making it beneficial for long-term savings.

Strategic Considerations
Maximizing Benefits

Continue maximizing investments in PPF for its tax-free interest and Section 80C benefits.

Monitoring Accounts

Regularly monitor both accounts to ensure they align with your financial goals. Utilize partial withdrawals wisely to avoid unnecessary tax burdens.

Managing Financial Goals
Long-Term Goals

Your PPF accounts are excellent for long-term goals, like your retirement and your son’s education or marriage.

Diversification

While PPF is safe and tax-efficient, consider diversifying with other investments to balance growth and risk.

Seeking Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner

Consult a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your investment strategy. Professional guidance ensures your financial plans are robust and aligned with your goals.

Regular Reviews

Regularly review your financial plan and adjust it as needed. Life changes and market conditions may require updates to your strategy.

Your commitment to securing your financial future and that of your son is commendable. PPF is a reliable and tax-efficient tool for this purpose.

Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the withdrawal rules for your PPF accounts helps you make informed decisions. Proper planning and regular reviews ensure you maximize benefits from these investments.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9189 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

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My PPF was opened only when I started working in private sector in 2015 and I am now 70 years old. When can I withdraw money from PPF and how much percentage of my savings?
Ans: Withdrawal Rules for Public Provident Fund (PPF) at 70 Years

Public Provident Fund (PPF) offers a secure and tax-efficient investment avenue for individuals looking to build long-term savings. As a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), I understand the importance of knowing the withdrawal rules, especially as you approach 70 years of age. Let's delve into when and how much you can withdraw from your PPF account:

Understanding PPF Withdrawal Rules:

Maturity Period: PPF has a lock-in period of 15 years from the end of the financial year in which the account was opened. However, after the initial 15-year period, the account can be extended indefinitely in blocks of five years.

Withdrawal Eligibility: Withdrawals from a PPF account are allowed from the 7th financial year onwards, subject to certain conditions.

Partial Withdrawals: You can make partial withdrawals from your PPF account from the 7th financial year, limited to a maximum of 50% of the balance at the end of the fourth year immediately preceding the year of withdrawal, or the preceding year, whichever is lower.

Full Withdrawal: Complete withdrawal of the PPF balance is permissible only upon maturity, which is after 15 years. However, you have the option to extend the account indefinitely in blocks of five years.

Withdrawal at 70 Years: As you are now 70 years old, if your PPF account has completed the initial 15-year lock-in period, you have the flexibility to make partial withdrawals or extend the account further.

Withdrawal Percentage and Considerations:

Partial Withdrawal Percentage: You can withdraw up to 50% of the balance at the end of the fourth year immediately preceding the year of withdrawal. However, it's essential to assess your financial needs and withdrawal requirements before making any withdrawals.

Impact on Retirement Planning: While PPF offers attractive tax benefits and a guaranteed return, withdrawing a significant portion of your savings may impact your retirement corpus. It's crucial to strike a balance between meeting your immediate financial needs and preserving funds for long-term goals.

Tax Implications: Withdrawals from a PPF account are tax-free under the Income Tax Act. However, consider the tax implications if you have other sources of income or investments subject to taxation.

Conclusion:

As you reach 70 years of age, you have the flexibility to withdraw funds from your PPF account, subject to the applicable withdrawal rules. However, it's essential to assess your financial situation, retirement goals, and withdrawal needs carefully before making any decisions. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances and help you make informed financial choices.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9189 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 15, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Sir, I had opened a PPF account in the year 2004, wherein I deposited at least Rs 10,000 per annum in each year till the year 2018. Subsequent to 2018, I did not deposit any further amount in my PPF account. Currently, my PPF account is treated as dormant, however every year interest is credited to my PPF account. I have not withdrawn from my PPF account so far. I have been advised to withdraw my PPF balance and close my account. My questions are as follows: 1) Is the interest income of PPF interest accrued so far, taxable and whether to be disclosed in the income tax returns? 2) Can I change the status of my PPF account from dormant to active? What are the documents required for it and the procedures involved? 3) If I choose to close my PPF account, will the PPF proceeds be subject to deduction of tax? 4) If I choose to continue with my PPF account without making any contributions, will it earn interest till the date of closure of PPF account? Thanks in advance.
Ans: Thank you for your detailed inquiry. Let’s address each of your concerns step-by-step to help you make an informed decision regarding your PPF account.

1. Tax Implications of PPF Interest Income
Tax Exemption Status
Public Provident Fund (PPF) is one of the most tax-efficient investment options in India. The interest accrued on PPF is completely tax-free under Section 10(11) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Reporting in Income Tax Returns
Since the interest earned on PPF is tax-free, you are not required to disclose this interest income in your income tax returns. This holds true as long as the PPF account remains active or dormant, and interest continues to be credited.

2. Reactivating Your Dormant PPF Account
Procedure to Reactivate
To change the status of your PPF account from dormant to active, follow these steps:

Submit a Written Request: Visit your bank or post office where the PPF account is held and submit a written request to reactivate the account.

Pay the Minimum Contribution: You will need to pay the minimum annual contribution of Rs 500 for each year the account was dormant. Since your account has been dormant since 2018, calculate the total contribution required (Rs 500 per year x number of dormant years).

Penalty Payment: A penalty of Rs 50 per inactive year is also required.

Submit Required Documents: Provide necessary documents such as your PPF passbook and identity proof.

Documents Required
PPF Passbook
Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)
Written application for reactivation
Once these steps are completed, your account will be reactivated and you can continue making contributions.

3. Closing Your PPF Account
Procedure to Close the Account
If you choose to close your PPF account, visit the bank or post office where your account is held and submit a closure application. You will need to fill out Form C (Application for Withdrawal) and submit it along with your PPF passbook and identity proof.

Tax Implications on Closure
The proceeds from your PPF account, including the principal and interest earned, are completely tax-free. There is no tax deduction on the amount received upon closure.

4. Continuing the Dormant PPF Account
Interest Accrual on Dormant Account
Even if you do not make any further contributions, your PPF account will continue to earn interest until it matures. The interest rate is set by the government and is subject to periodic changes. This interest will continue to be credited to your account annually until the maturity date.

Evaluating Your Options
Reactivating vs. Continuing Dormant
Reactivating: This option allows you to continue benefiting from the tax-free returns of PPF by making the minimum contributions and paying the penalty. It keeps the account active and provides flexibility for future contributions.

Continuing Dormant: If you prefer not to make further contributions but want to keep earning interest, allowing the account to remain dormant is a viable option. The account will continue to grow with interest until maturity.

Closing the Account
If you need immediate access to funds or prefer to invest elsewhere, closing the account is straightforward and tax-efficient. The full amount received will be tax-free.

Strategic Recommendations
Diversify Investments
While PPF is a secure and tax-efficient investment, consider diversifying your portfolio for better returns. Options include:

Mutual Funds: Actively managed mutual funds can offer higher returns compared to PPF.
Equity Investments: For higher risk tolerance, equity investments provide potential for significant growth.
Maintain a Balanced Portfolio
A balanced portfolio includes a mix of fixed-income securities like PPF and higher-growth investments like mutual funds and equities. This strategy optimizes returns while managing risk.

Final Thoughts
Your decision should align with your financial goals and liquidity needs. Reactivating the account provides flexibility, while continuing with a dormant account or closing it can meet immediate financial needs.

Conclusion
Your PPF account offers flexibility and tax-free returns, making it a valuable part of your portfolio. Whether you choose to reactivate, continue as dormant, or close the account, each option has its benefits.

Tax-free Interest: PPF interest remains tax-free.
Reactivation: Pay contributions and penalties to reactivate.
Closure: Tax-free proceeds upon closing the account.
Dormant: Interest continues until maturity.
Make an informed decision based on your financial goals and requirements.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Jun 22, 2025Hindi
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Ravi Sir, Hi. I'm 27, engaged through a family-arranged match. My fiance is kind, well-settled, and earns 2 lakh monthly. His mother is a bit authoritative. My father-in-law is sweet. I have met him and his family a few times, but I don't feel any physical or emotional spark between us. I've tried to flirt with him, but there is no chemistry, which is very odd to me. When I told my parents, they said this is normal. They showed me examples of how love can grow after marriage, but honestly, I am not sure. Is it wrong to expect your partner to be romantic? Our marriage is in October. Should I call off this wedding just because there's no attraction? We have spent 3 lakhs already on the engagement and in August we plan to book the wedding hall. Pls advise
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand your concerns and they are totally valid. Please understand that romance and the idea of it is different for different people. For your parents, and their generation, romance growing after marriage might have been good enough but that does not necessarily mean it should be the same for you, or the same thing will happen in your marriage. I am not trying to scare you but rather I want you to know that your concerns are valid. Having said that, your partner’s idea of romance can be different from yours. The best thing here is to talk it out. Tell him what’s bothering you and ask if there is anything going on with him. It’s always better to address the issue no matter how uncomfortable it might be than regret later. Calling off is quite a serious decision, and it’s best you speak to him and think long and hard before deciding. But if your instincts say something is off, there is always a 50% chance that something indeed is- don’t ignore it.
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9189 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 23, 2025

Money
What is best mutual fund for swp. For 1 cr corpus.
Ans: Reviewing Your Income Needs
? You have amassed a corpus of Rs.?1 crore.
? Likely aim: withdraw around Rs.?60,000–80,000 monthly.
? Income must support lifestyle, health, and other expenses.
? Corpus longevity is essential—it must last many years.

Overview of Fund Types Suitable for SWP
Aggressive Hybrid Funds
? These blend equity and debt—typically 60–80% equity.
? They balance growth and safety, ideal for withdrawals.
? Offer smoother performance compared to pure equity.

Large-Cap or Flexi-Cap Equity Funds
? Provide long-term growth and inflation protection.
? Use equity withdrawals to support corpus growth.
? Maintain moderate exposure for stability.

Short-Term Debt / Liquid Funds
? Ensure cash flow without touching equity in downturns.
? Provide buffer to fuel SWP during volatile periods.
? Preserve capital while offering liquidity.

Gold Funds (Optional)
? Hedge against inflation and long-term volatility.
? Can complement corpus if desired.

Avoid pure small/mid-cap or thematic funds for SWP—they can be volatile and may harm regular income needs.

Why Live Actively Managed and Regular Plans Matter
Active funds allow managers to rotate out of risky assets in stress.

Index funds lack flexibility—they track market blindly.

SWPs need defense when markets drop; active funds help.

Direct plans lack periodic review and emotional guidance.

Regular plans via CFP-backed distributors offer discipline, advice, and tax aid.

Crafting a Sustainable SWP from Rs.?1 Crore
You’ll create monthly withdrawals that provide income without depleting principal:

Choose One Aggressive Hybrid Fund

Allocate around 60% of corpus (~Rs. 60 lakh).

SWP from this fund covers 60–70% of your desired monthly income.

Select One Equity Fund (Large/Flexi)

Allocate 20–30% of corpus (~Rs. 20–30 lakh).

SWP from this supports inflation and long-term growth.

Create a Short-Term Debt Buffer

Allocate 10–15% of corpus (~Rs. 10–15 lakh) to liquid or short-term debt.

Use this buffer to supplement income during equity market dips.

(Optional) Gold Exposure

Allocate 5% (~Rs. 5 lakh) to a gold fund.

Hedge against inflation and add a non-equity component.

Setting Up Monthly Withdrawals
Suppose your goal is Rs.?75,000 monthly (Rs.?9 lakh annually).

Withdraw around Rs.?50,000 per month from the hybrid fund.

Withdraw Rs.?20,000–25,000 from the equity fund.

Debt buffer steps in if markets fall short; hybrid and equity SWPs could be deferred or reduced.

How the Buffer Works When Markets Fall
If equity value dips, use buffer disbursement first.

Pause or reduce equity SWP to preserve principal.

Hybrid SWP may taper as well if buffer is available.

When markets recover, return SWP to normal rates.

This preserves your corpus and protects withdrawals.

Rebalancing & Portfolio Tracking
Assess allocation every six months.

If hybrid portion exceeds 70%, pause SWP via hybrid and redirect funds to debt or buffer.

If equity has dropped below 20%, stop equity SWP and invest hybrid returns into equity.

Rebalancing through SIPs avoids capital gains tax and simplifies execution.

Taxation of SWP Withdrawals
Equity and hybrid withdrawals taxed at LTCG 12.5% beyond Rs.?1.25 lakh annual gains.

Short-term gains taxed at 20%.

Debt fund income aligned with your tax slab.

Use SWP structure to manage taxable events gradually.

CFP guidance ensures you maximise LTCG exemptions annually and minimise overall tax.

Building Flexibility for Corpus Longevity
Keep your buffer fund uninvested and liquid—no SWP from it.

Hybrid equity SWP continues unless buffer is tapped.

Equity fund SWP can pause in low equity markets.

Ensure total SWP rate does not exceed safe withdrawal rate (4–6% initially).

Review and adjust annual based on inflation and corpus performance.

Why This Balanced SWP Works
Hybrid fund offers near-bank-like stability yet retains equity growth.

Equity fund ensures inflation resistance and long-term portfolio health.

Debt buffer protects principal and allows smooth income flow.

Gold allocation, if used, boosts defense against macro shocks.

Active funds and CFP oversight ensure strategic agility.

Implementing the SWP Structure
Step 1: Contact a CFP-backed MFD and set up regular plans for hybrid, equity, debt, and optional gold funds.
Step 2: Allocate corpus according to recommended percentages.
Step 3: Automate monthly SWP transactions: hybrid + equity withdrawal.
Step 4: Monitor buffer usage; top-up using redirections when markets recover.
Step 5: Revisit allocation strategy every 6 months; rebalance as necessary.
Step 6: Review tax impact annually and schedule SWP to use exemption thresholds.

Handling Market Downturns Without Selling Equity
Use debt buffer first to meet income needs.

Pause hybrid SWP if buffer is depleted.

Keep equity invested to recover from downturns.

Align SWP with recovery—reactivate hybrid and equity withdrawals when allocations rebalance.

Addressing Inflation Over the Long Run
Equity exposure should rise modestly over time to offset inflation.

Hybrid fund’s equity cushion also supports in rising cost environments.

Revisit SWP amount annually and adjust for living cost changes.

Keeping a portion in gold and equity helps retain purchasing power.

Safeguarding Through Swiss Cheese Protections
Ensure you hold a 6–12 month emergency fund outside SWP.

Maintain adequate health and term insurance.

Stay away from high-risk or illiquid investments.

Keep portfolio disciplined and consistent.

Avoid occasional mistakes—maintain regular structure.

Role of CFP?Backed Support in SWP Success
Advisors help you choose suitable hybrid, equity, and debt funds.

They assist with tax-efficient SWP scheduling and rebalancing.

They monitor risks, inflation, and portfolio drift.

They keep you emotionally grounded during market stress.

Tracking Progress for Peace of Mind
Use digital dashboards to track corpus performance monthly.

Receive biannual reports on asset allocation and debt buffer status.

Evaluate timeline and adjust desired SWP amount if needed.

Let the CFP help validate your strategy and adapt to life changes.

Considering Corpus Growth Over Time
Leave equity untouched for at least 5–7 years to allow compounding.

Hybrid reinvestments or buffer top-ups help preserve equity value.

Adjust equity SWP based on goals—perhaps increase after 5 years.

Corpus should generate steady income while retaining real value.

Handling One Ragged Edge: Ad-Hoc Inflows or Market Shocks
Bonus or inheritance can be deployed to buffer or equity buckets.

In a market crash, consider buying additional hybrid or equity portions.

If needs change—reduce SWP, augment buffer, or refresh allocation.

Always revisit goals and financial standing every year.

Final Insights
You have built a strong Rs. 1 crore corpus. This SWP design ensures steady withdrawals while preserving your wealth.
By blending hybrid equity growth, short-term buffer stability, equity inflation protection, and optional gold, you get a well-rounded solution.
Active funds and CFP support complete the picture—helping with tax, market shifts, and disciplined rebalancing.
This is the blueprint for sustainable income, financial independence, and peace of mind over coming decades.

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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