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