Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 21, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Hi sunil sir iam 45 year old i want to retire next year my monthly expense 50000 per month, how much money need to sustain at the age of 80

Ans: Understanding Your Retirement Needs
Sunil sir, planning for retirement is a critical step. I understand your need for a comfortable and secure retirement. Retiring next year at age 46 and sustaining until age 80 requires careful financial planning.

Estimating Future Expenses
Your current monthly expense is ?50,000. This amount will likely increase due to inflation. It's important to account for this in your retirement plan. Inflation can erode the value of money over time. For instance, what costs ?50,000 today will cost much more in the future.

Creating a Retirement Corpus
To maintain your lifestyle, you need to accumulate a substantial retirement corpus. This corpus should generate enough returns to cover your monthly expenses adjusted for inflation. The goal is to ensure you do not outlive your savings.

Investment Strategy
A well-diversified investment portfolio is essential. Diversification reduces risk and enhances returns. Focus on a mix of equity and debt funds. Equity funds provide growth, while debt funds offer stability.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can outperform the market with the expertise of fund managers. They adjust portfolios based on market conditions. This dynamic management can yield better returns than index funds.

Professional Guidance
A Certified Financial Planner can help tailor an investment strategy to meet your retirement goals. They offer personalized advice considering your financial situation and risk tolerance. Their expertise ensures a well-structured retirement plan.

Importance of Regular Review
Regularly reviewing your retirement plan is crucial. Financial markets and personal circumstances change. Annual reviews with your planner can help adjust your investments to stay on track.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. This fund should be easily accessible and separate from your retirement corpus. It ensures you don't have to dip into your retirement savings for emergencies.

Health Insurance
Adequate health insurance is vital. Medical expenses can be significant in retirement. A comprehensive health insurance plan protects your savings from unforeseen medical costs.

Managing Withdrawals
Plan your withdrawals carefully to avoid depleting your corpus too soon. A systematic withdrawal plan helps manage your finances efficiently. It ensures you have a steady income stream throughout retirement.

Tax Planning
Effective tax planning can enhance your retirement savings. Utilize tax-efficient investment options. A Certified Financial Planner can help optimize your investments to minimize tax liabilities.

Appreciating the Journey
Your foresight in planning for retirement is commendable. Taking steps now ensures a secure and comfortable future. It's important to stay informed and proactive about your financial health.

Conclusion
Sunil sir, your dedication to securing a stable retirement is inspiring. With a comprehensive plan and professional guidance, you can achieve your retirement goals. Remember, the key is to start early and stay disciplined.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Iam 45 year old ,i want to retire know my mothly expenses is 55ooo thousand per month,how much money required to survive till the age of 80
Ans: It's great that you're thinking about your retirement and planning ahead. Here are some steps to help you determine how much money you'll need to retire comfortably:

Calculate Your Retirement Expenses: Start by listing down all your current monthly expenses, including essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, and discretionary spending. Add an inflation buffer to estimate future expenses.
Determine Your Retirement Age: Decide at what age you want to retire. Since you're 45 now, consider how many years you have until retirement.
Estimate Your Retirement Income: Assess all potential sources of retirement income, such as pensions, annuities, Social Security, and investment income.
Calculate the Gap: Subtract your estimated retirement income from your projected retirement expenses to determine how much additional income you'll need from savings and investments.
Determine Required Corpus: Once you have the annual shortfall in retirement income, multiply it by the number of years you expect to be retired. This will give you an estimate of the total corpus required to cover your retirement expenses.
Adjust for Inflation: Remember to account for inflation when calculating your retirement corpus. Inflation can erode the purchasing power of your savings over time, so it's crucial to plan for it.
Consult a Financial Planner: Consider seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner to help you create a personalized retirement plan. A professional can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your financial situation and goals.
By following these steps and consulting with a financial planner, you can determine how much money you'll need to retire comfortably and develop a strategy to achieve your retirement goals. Remember, it's never too late to start planning for retirement, and taking proactive steps now can help secure your financial future.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 27, 2024

Listen
Money
Hi I am Melvick current Age 44 and have savings of 1.5 Cr, my current monthly expense is Rs 50000, How much retirement amount will i require at Age of 60 to sustain good financial retired life till say max 90, i assume i will require Rs 2lac per month as expense from age of 60 which will increase as per inflation.
Ans: Melvick, planning for a comfortable retirement requires careful consideration. You want to retire at 60 and expect to live until 90. Here's a breakdown of how you can achieve your goal of Rs. 2 lakhs per month in retirement, adjusted for inflation.

Inflation and Future Expenses
Inflation significantly impacts long-term financial planning. Assuming an inflation rate of 6% per annum, let's estimate your future expenses:

Current Monthly Expense: Rs. 50,000
Monthly Expense at Retirement (Age 60): Rs. 2,00,000
Future Value of Monthly Expenses
To calculate how much Rs. 2 lakhs per month at age 60 will be worth, we need to consider inflation:

Inflation Rate: 6%
Number of Years Until Retirement: 16 years
Required Retirement Corpus
To sustain Rs. 2 lakhs per month from age 60 to 90, we need to consider the future value of money, inflation, and returns on investments.

Estimating Total Corpus
Monthly Expense at Retirement: Rs. 2,00,000
Annual Expense at Retirement: Rs. 24,00,000
Assuming a post-retirement return rate of 8% and adjusting for 6% inflation, the required corpus can be substantial. Here's an estimation:

Corpus Required at Age 60: This calculation involves complex financial modeling. Generally, financial planners use the rule of thumb that you need approximately 25-30 times your annual expenses as a retirement corpus.
So, you would need approximately:

Rs. 24,00,000 x 30 = Rs. 7.2 Crores at age 60
Current Savings and Investments
Current Savings: Rs. 1.5 Crores
Current Monthly Expense: Rs. 50,000
Investment Strategy
To achieve your goal, you need a well-diversified investment portfolio. Here's a suggested approach:

Equity Investments
Equity Mutual Funds: Invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to balance risk and growth. Consider actively managed funds for better returns compared to index funds.
Debt Investments
Debt Mutual Funds: Include a mix of short-term and long-term debt funds for stability.
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Continue investing in PPF for tax benefits and stable returns.
SIP Strategy
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Increase your SIPs gradually to leverage the power of compounding. Aim to invest a significant portion of your income in SIPs.
Other Investments
National Pension System (NPS): Consider investing in NPS for additional retirement benefits and tax savings.
Gold Bonds: Allocate a small portion to Sovereign Gold Bonds for diversification.
Adjustments and Additional Strategies
Regular Review: Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to stay on track with your goals.
Increase Investments: As your income increases, increase your investment amount proportionally.
Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least 6-12 months of expenses.
Final Insights
Planning for retirement is a dynamic process. Regularly reassess your goals and investment strategies. Ensure your investments are diversified and aligned with your risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Moneywize

Moneywize   |178 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
I am 34, earning 15 LPA planning to retire at the age of 45. I want to invest 20 lakhs lump sum to generate corpus of 7 cr. Where and how should I invest?
Ans: To generate a corpus of Rs 7 crore by the time you are 45, starting with a Rs 20 lakh lump sum investment at 34, you need to consider the power of compounding, high-return investments, and disciplined portfolio management. Here's how you can structure your investments:
Key Assumptions:
1. Time Frame: 11 years (from age 34 to 45).
2. Required Corpus: Rs 7 crore.
3. Initial Investment: Rs 20 lakh.
To grow Rs 20 lakh to Rs 7 crore, the required annual return would be approximately 24% compounded annually. Achieving such high returns involves a significant degree of risk, so it's important to balance the portfolio carefully.
Investment Strategy:
1. Equity Mutual Funds (High Risk, High Return):
• Equity is the primary asset class to generate high returns over the long term. Historically, equity mutual funds can provide returns of around 12-18% annually, but this is subject to market performance.
• Suggested Funds:
o Large-cap funds: For stability and steady growth (e.g., HDFC Top 100 Fund, Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund).
o Mid-cap and Small-cap funds: Higher growth potential but more volatile (e.g., Axis Midcap Fund, Nippon India Small Cap Fund, Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund).
o Flexi-cap funds: These provide exposure to both large and mid-cap stocks (e.g., Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund, HDFC Flexi Cap Fund).
• Allocation for Equity Funds: Around 70-80% of your lump sum (Rs 14 lakh - Rs 16 lakh) can be invested in equity funds, targeting high growth.
2. SIP Investments (For Dollar-Cost Averaging):
• While you have a lump sum, consider continuing SIPs in equity funds over the years to help with dollar-cost averaging (DCA), which reduces the risk of investing a lump sum at market highs.
• Start SIPs of Rs 30,000-Rs 40,000 per month, targeting high-growth equity funds to further compound your wealth.
3. Hybrid Funds (Moderate Risk):
• To balance the portfolio, invest in hybrid funds, which include a mix of equity and debt. They can moderate volatility and provide steady growth.
• Suggested Funds: HDFC Hybrid Equity Fund, ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund.
• Allocation for Hybrid Funds: Around 10-15% (Rs 2 lakh - Rs 3 lakh).
4. Real Estate (Optional):
• If you have any plans of investing in real estate, a portion of your portfolio can be used here. Though real estate generally appreciates at a slower rate, it can be a good long-term investment. However, avoid allocating too much to it since real estate is illiquid.
• Allocation for Real Estate: Optional, but around 5-10% of the lump sum (Rs 1-2 lakh).
5. Debt Instruments (Low Risk, Capital Protection):
• While the primary focus should be on high-return equity, it's prudent to keep a small portion in debt funds or bonds for stability.
• Suggested Funds: HDFC Corporate Bond Fund, ICICI Prudential Liquid Fund.
• Allocation for Debt Instruments: Around 5% (Rs 1 lakh).
Expected Returns:
1. Equity Funds: Targeting returns of 15-20% annually.
2. Hybrid Funds: Targeting returns of around 10-12% annually.
3. Debt Funds: Targeting returns of 6-7% annually.
Tracking and Adjusting:
1. Monitor Portfolio: Review the portfolio every 6-12 months to ensure the investments are aligned with your goal. Consider reallocating based on market conditions.
2. Tax Considerations: Ensure tax efficiency by investing in tax-efficient funds and making use of tax exemptions (e.g., ELSS for tax saving under 80C).
3. Rebalancing: As your investment grows, shift gradually from high-risk assets (equity) to lower-risk assets (debt/hybrid) as you approach the target.
Potential Outcome:
Assuming you achieve the required return of 24% annually (through a combination of equities, SIPs, and compounding), your Rs 20 lakh investment can grow significantly by 45. However, the exact growth rate will depend on market performance, the consistency of returns, and your disciplined investment approach.
Conclusion:
Achieving a Rs 7 crore corpus from Rs 20 lakh in 11 years is ambitious but possible with a high-risk, high-return strategy. By focusing on equity mutual funds, balancing with hybrid and debt funds, and continuing SIPs, you can potentially achieve your goal. However, monitor the portfolio periodically and adjust your strategy based on market conditions and risk tolerance.

...Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   |178 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 38, living with my parents who have savings of Rs 40 lakhs and monthly pension of Rs 15,000. I live in a house valued at 1.5 crore, a car and a corpus of 50 lakh. My annual salary is 15 lakh, my wife, 32, a teacher, earns 8 lakh per annum. Our daughter is 11 years and we have invested 30 lakh for her education. Will it be a good idea to retire at 48? Hopefully my daughter will be a graduate by then.
Ans: Retiring at 48 is an ambitious goal, especially given that your daughter will be in the later stages of her education at that time. However, it can be achievable with the right strategy, keeping in mind that both your current and future financial needs (such as your daughter's education, living expenses, and healthcare) should be carefully planned.
Key Financial Points:
1. Current Assets & Liabilities:
o Savings and investments: Rs 50 lakh corpus + Rs 40 lakh savings from your parents.
o House: Rs 1.5 crore (valuable asset, no immediate cash flow but provides stability).
o Car: An asset, though it depreciates.
o Monthly Pension: Rs 15,000 (provides additional cash flow).
2. Income:
o Your Salary: Rs 15 lakh per annum.
o Wife's Salary: Rs 8 lakh per annum.
o Total household income: Rs 23 lakh annually (pre-tax).
3. Daughter’s Education:
o You’ve already invested Rs 30 lakh for her education, which can cover part of her expenses, but you need to plan for the balance.
4. Retirement Goal:
o Retiring at 48 means you’ll need a substantial retirement corpus to cover your lifestyle expenses, especially since you plan to live without any active income.
o Estimate your monthly living expenses (post-retirement) considering inflation, healthcare, and contingencies.
Key Considerations for Retirement at 48:
1. Monthly Expenses Post-Retirement:
o Assuming your family needs Rs 60,000 per month (inflated from your current expenses) and an additional Rs 30,000 for health and emergency purposes, your annual expenses would be approximately Rs 10 lakh. This figure may rise over time due to inflation.
2. Corpus Needed:
o If you plan to live on Rs 10 lakh per year post-retirement, assuming a withdrawal rate of 4% (a standard guideline for sustainable withdrawals), you would need a retirement corpus of Rs 2.5 crore.
o If your daughter's education expenses require more funding, factor that in as well.
3. Current Assets & Future Growth:
o Savings Growth: Your Rs 50 lakh corpus can grow if invested well in equity mutual funds, stocks, or balanced funds (expected returns of around 10-12% p.a.).
o Parents’ Savings: The Rs 40 lakh savings from your parents can be used to generate returns in low-risk avenues like debt funds or fixed deposits, if they plan to support your retirement plans.
4. Planning for Future Education & Miscellaneous Expenses:
o Your daughter’s education will likely require more than Rs 30 lakh for her undergrad and possibly postgraduate education. Estimate the total requirement (say Rs 50-60 lakh for the complete course, including inflation) and plan for it.
5. Retirement Income Strategy:
o Pension or Annuity: Consider a monthly income plan or annuity products to ensure a steady stream of income during retirement. For example, a monthly annuity from your parents' corpus or part of your own corpus can provide financial stability.
6. Investment Strategy:
o Equity Mutual Funds: Start or increase SIPs in equity mutual funds (for long-term capital growth). Equity can provide high returns but also carries risk, so it’s ideal for long-term goals like retirement.
o Debt Funds: Consider shifting to debt or hybrid funds as you approach retirement to preserve capital.
o Real Estate: Your house is a valuable asset, and if you plan to sell or downsize in the future, it can be a key part of your retirement corpus.
Steps to Achieve Your Retirement Goal:
1. Increase Savings:
o Save a higher portion of your monthly salary towards retirement, even increasing your SIPs or contributions in the coming years. Aim to invest at least 30-40% of your combined income in SIPs or mutual funds.
2. Asset Allocation:
o Focus on equity funds for growth in the early years. As retirement nears, shift some of the corpus to safer instruments like debt funds or bonds.
3. Plan for Healthcare:
o Healthcare costs can significantly impact retirement. Ensure you have adequate health insurance for yourself and your family, considering long-term care as well.
4. Create a Contingency Fund:
o Have an emergency fund equivalent to 12-18 months of expenses to avoid dipping into retirement savings during emergencies.
5. Revisit Your Goal Periodically:
o Regularly check your progress and adjust your investments based on market performance, income changes, and any unexpected expenses (e.g., your daughter’s education needs).
Conclusion:
• Retiring at 48 is a feasible goal, but it will require diligent planning and a disciplined investment approach. Your savings and investments should aim to grow sufficiently over the next 10 years to generate a steady income stream, along with provisions for your daughter’s higher education.
• With careful asset allocation and savings growth, your goal of retiring by 48 and managing your family’s finances can be well within reach.

...Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   |178 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
I am 34 years old and have no savings or EMIs. I live with my parents and earn Rs 35,000 a month with an annual bonus of Rs 18,000. I want to retire at 50 and settle in my home town. What is the best way for me to plan and invest for my retirement?
Ans: To achieve your goal of retiring at 50 and settling in your hometown, the key is to start investing early and developing a disciplined savings strategy. Here's how you can plan:
1. Determine Your Retirement Corpus
• To retire at 50, you need to calculate how much you’ll need to live comfortably. Consider your current lifestyle and future expenses.
• You can aim for a corpus that supports 70-80% of your pre-retirement income annually. For example, if you plan to need Rs 50,000 per month (Rs 6 lakh annually) in retirement, you'll need a corpus of Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 crore, depending on the duration of your retirement.
2. Build an Emergency Fund
• Set aside an emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses. This provides financial security in case of unexpected situations. You can keep this fund in a high-interest savings account or liquid mutual funds.
3. Invest in Retirement-Specific Instruments
• Public Provident Fund (PPF): PPF is a great long-term investment for retirement due to its tax benefits and safety.
• National Pension Scheme (NPS): NPS is another good option that offers both equity and debt exposure. It's designed for retirement and provides tax benefits.
• Mutual Funds: Start a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in equity mutual funds (consider a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and hybrid funds) for higher returns over the long term. Even though mutual funds come with some risk, they can offer substantial growth over time.
4. Invest in Stocks (for higher returns)
• If you're comfortable with higher risk, you can invest in individual stocks or equity mutual funds to generate wealth. Ensure to do thorough research before investing or consider opting for managed portfolios if you're new to investing.
5. Keep Your Expenses Low
• Since you live with your parents and don’t have major expenses, this is an opportunity to save a significant portion of your income. Consider saving and investing 30-50% of your monthly income in the beginning.
6. Automate Your Investments
• Set up automatic monthly transfers into your investment accounts (like SIPs in mutual funds) to ensure consistent investing.
7. Maximize Tax Benefits
• Contribute to tax-saving instruments like ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Schemes), PPF, and NPS to reduce your taxable income.
• For long-term capital gains, keep in mind the tax exemptions and favorable tax rates for certain investment vehicles like PPF and NPS.
8. Increase Investment with Income Growth
• As your salary increases over the years, make sure to increase your investment amount accordingly. If you receive additional bonuses or increments, allocate a portion of them to your retirement fund.
9. Diversify Your Portfolio
• Diversification can help manage risk. Apart from mutual funds, PPF, and NPS, you could consider investments in gold or real estate if suitable for your situation.
10. Track and Rebalance Your Portfolio
• Regularly review your portfolio and rebalance it based on your retirement goals and market conditions. It’s also important to monitor inflation rates and adjust your goals accordingly.
Example Plan (Rs 35,000/month income):
• Monthly Savings (30% of income): Rs 10,500
• Bonus (Annually): Rs 18,000, invest 50% of it (Rs 9,000)
• Total Monthly Investment: Rs 10,500 + Rs 750 (bonus contribution) = Rs 11,250
• Invest in equity mutual funds via SIP: Rs 8,000
• PPF: Rs 2,000
• NPS: Rs 1,250
Potential Returns:
Assuming a return of 12% per annum from equity investments, you could accumulate a substantial corpus over time. If you start early, even small, consistent investments can lead to significant wealth.
Key Takeaways:
• Start investing early to take advantage of compounding.
• Aim to save and invest a portion of your income regularly.
• Focus on building a retirement-specific portfolio with tax-saving benefits.
• Gradually increase your savings as your income grows.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Listen
Money
As per Budget 2025, for income upto ₹12 Laks has zero Income Tax liability. But the Tax slabs start from ₹0 to ₹4 Laks, which should have started from ₹12 Laks to ₹16 Laks, as income up to ₹12 Laks has zero Tax applicable. Also under Budget 2025, who is required to file Return compulsorily?
Ans: In the Union Budget 2025, the Indian government introduced changes to the income tax structure. The new tax regime now offers a basic exemption limit of Rs. 4,00,000. Individuals earning up to Rs. 12,00,000 annually are eligible for a rebate under Section 87A, which effectively brings their tax liability to zero.

Addressing Your Concern

You mentioned that the tax slabs should begin from Rs. 12,00,000, given the exemption up to Rs. 12,00,000.However, the tax slabs are designed to follow a progressive system. The initial slab of Rs. 0 to Rs. 4,00,000 ensures tax relief for lower-income groups.

Additionally, the Rs. 12,00,000 limit is specifically available as a rebate for income from salary and business/professional sources only. For individuals earning other income (such as rental income, capital gains, etc.), the tax will apply starting from Rs. 4,00,000. This is why the slab starts from Rs. 0 to Rs. 4,00,000.

Thus, the tax liability structure is based on the source of income, with the rebate applicable only for salary and business/professional income. The objective is to provide targeted relief to salaried individuals and small businesses while still taxing other types of income starting from Rs. 4,00,000.

Mandatory Income Tax Return Filing

As per Budget 2025, the requirement to file an Income Tax Return (ITR) remains unchanged. Individuals whose total income exceeds the basic exemption limit (Rs. 4,00,000) are required to file an ITR. Even if your income is below the taxable limit, filing an ITR can be advantageous for reasons like claiming refunds, applying for loans, or proving your income for future financial planning.

Final Insights

The revised tax slabs aim to provide relief to those with lower incomes while ensuring a fair contribution from all income groups. The structure encourages compliance and simplifies the tax process for salaried and small-business earners, while still ensuring taxes on other sources of income.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Listen
Money
How partial withdrawal from NPS Tire 2 account for house building construction will be taxed? Is it true that Principle/invested amount also attract tax ?
Ans: NPS Tier 2 is a voluntary savings account linked to NPS. It allows flexible withdrawals. However, the taxation rules for withdrawals are different from NPS Tier 1.

Understanding Tax on NPS Tier 2 Withdrawals
1) Entire Withdrawal is Taxable
Withdrawals from NPS Tier 2 do not get any tax exemption.

The entire amount, including the principal and gains, is taxed as per your income slab.

2) No Special Tax Benefits for House Construction
There are no separate tax exemptions for withdrawing from NPS Tier 2 for house construction.

Unlike NPS Tier 1, which has some tax-free components, Tier 2 is treated like a regular investment.

3) Principle Amount is Also Taxed
The invested amount (principal) was not taxed earlier because there was no tax benefit on investment.

However, when withdrawn, it is added to your total income and taxed as per your slab.

4) Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) May Apply
If the withdrawal amount is large, TDS may be deducted.

The withdrawn amount is still subject to final tax calculation based on your total income.

Better Alternatives for Funding House Construction
If you need funds for house construction, consider other investment withdrawals that have tax benefits.

Withdrawing from a mutual fund with long-term capital gains benefit may be more tax-efficient.

Fixed deposits may be an option, but the interest earned is taxable.

Finally
NPS Tier 2 withdrawals are fully taxable.

The entire amount, including the principal, is added to your income.

There is no special tax exemption for withdrawing for house construction.

Explore other tax-efficient sources for funding home construction.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 30, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello, Myself and wife are NRI s and maintaining a joint bank account, when we retire and get back home, how the tds refund going to affect? Is it shared or one person have to claim?
Ans: Your situation is common among NRIs returning to India. A proper tax strategy ensures smooth financial management.

Understanding TDS on NRI Accounts
Banks deduct TDS on interest earned in NRI accounts.
The rate depends on the type of account and applicable tax laws.
NRIs can claim a refund if the tax deducted is higher than their actual tax liability.
Knowing how tax works helps in efficient tax planning.

Who Should Claim the TDS Refund?
Refund claims depend on whose income is being taxed.
In joint accounts, only the primary holder is taxed.
The TDS refund must be claimed by the person whose PAN is linked to the account.
Only one person can claim the refund in most cases.

How to File the TDS Refund Claim?
The person claiming must file an income tax return.
The refund request should include details of TDS deducted.
Form 26AS helps track the deducted tax.
If both spouses have separate incomes, each must file returns individually.
A structured approach ensures smooth refund processing.

Repatriation and Account Conversion After Retirement
NRI accounts must be converted to resident accounts upon return.
Failing to convert can lead to tax complications.
Inform banks about residential status change to avoid excess TDS.
Timely conversion helps in better tax compliance.

Finally
When returning to India, ensure proper tax planning for TDS refunds. Only the primary account holder can claim the refund. Converting accounts to resident status is necessary to avoid tax issues.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi sir my take home salary is 78000 can I buy home for 60 lakhs and I'm having a personal loan due for 14k for 1 year Kindly suggest
Ans: You have a take-home salary of Rs. 78,000 per month. You are considering buying a home worth Rs. 60 lakh. You also have a personal loan of Rs. 14,000 per month due for one more year.

Let’s evaluate whether purchasing this home is financially feasible and optimal.

Assessing Affordability Based on Income
Typically, housing affordability is calculated based on your monthly salary and liabilities.

Lenders usually approve home loans with an EMI-to-income ratio of up to 40%-50%.

In your case, the monthly EMI for the home loan will likely be substantial.

This will affect your cash flow, leaving limited room for other expenses.

It's essential to have a comfortable margin for daily expenses, savings, and emergencies.

If you can manage all your expenses comfortably, home ownership is possible.

Home Loan EMI Calculation Considerations
A Rs. 60 lakh home loan at an interest rate of 8%-9% will have a significant EMI.

For a loan tenure of 20 years, the EMI could be between Rs. 48,000 to Rs. 55,000.

You also have a personal loan of Rs. 14,000.

Combining both EMIs, your total monthly liabilities could be around Rs. 62,000 to Rs. 70,000.

With a take-home salary of Rs. 78,000, this leaves only Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 16,000 for other expenses.

This is a tight budget, especially considering unforeseen costs like healthcare or repairs.

Impact of Personal Loan on Financial Health
A personal loan of Rs. 14,000 can strain your finances, particularly with a new home loan.

Having two EMIs (personal loan + home loan) may limit your ability to save and invest.

If your personal loan interest rate is high, it can be more burdensome than the home loan.

Clearing the personal loan before taking on a home loan would be advisable.

Evaluating the Home Purchase from a Debt Perspective
Borrowing money for a home is often considered a good investment.

However, with your current financial situation, a high loan burden can lead to stress.

The personal loan and the home loan would require careful budgeting.

If you are planning to take on the home loan while still servicing the personal loan, it may strain your finances.

It’s best to focus on paying off the personal loan before committing to a new home loan.

Importance of Saving for a Down Payment
Typically, it’s recommended to make a down payment of at least 20% of the property value.

In your case, this would be Rs. 12 lakh for the Rs. 60 lakh home.

Saving up for the down payment reduces the amount of the loan, lowering EMIs.

The higher the down payment, the lesser the loan burden and overall interest paid.

You can also explore options like using part of your savings or other investments for the down payment.

Exploring Alternative Housing Options
If purchasing a Rs. 60 lakh home is not feasible, you may consider smaller properties.

This will reduce the loan burden and make the monthly payments more manageable.

Additionally, look at properties that are closer to your budget or in different locations.

You may also consider renting for a while, saving for a larger down payment, and paying off the personal loan.

Reconsidering Financial Stability
Buying a house should align with long-term financial goals and not cause undue stress.

Having too many loans can limit your ability to invest for the future.

Your immediate financial stability is essential before taking on additional commitments.

It may be better to pay off the personal loan first and save for a larger down payment.

Final Insights
Purchasing a home with a Rs. 78,000 salary and multiple loans may not be advisable.

Prioritize clearing the personal loan before taking on a large housing loan.

A balanced approach is crucial to avoid financial stress and ensure long-term stability.

You may consider a smaller home or rent for a few years until your finances improve.

Always ensure you have a sufficient emergency fund and room for other expenses.

As your financial situation stabilizes, you can then comfortably purchase your dream home.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Listen
Money
My brother wants to transfer 15 crores to my account in India from his NRI dubai account, if I receive the amount, should I be liable to pay tax for this amount?
Ans: In India, any money received from abroad is subject to scrutiny under the Income Tax Act.

However, gifts from relatives are tax-free in India.

A brother is considered a relative under the Income Tax Act, so gifts between siblings are exempt from tax.

What You Should Be Aware Of
1) Source of Funds
The money must come from a legal source.

Ensure that your brother can provide proof of the source of funds if required by the authorities.

2) Reporting the Transaction
Large transactions (above Rs. 10 lakh) need to be reported to Income Tax authorities.

If you receive Rs. 15 crores, it may be flagged for monitoring, and you may need to provide explanation and source details.

3) Repatriation Process
Ensure the money is sent through proper banking channels.

RTGS/NEFT/IMPS from an NRI account to your Indian account will ensure the money is tracked properly.

No Immediate Tax Liability for Gift from Brother
If your brother is gifting the amount to you, no tax is applicable as it is treated as a gift from a relative.

However, if the money is for business transactions or repayment of loans, it may attract tax or require documentation.

Final Insights
Receiving a gift of Rs. 15 crores from your brother is not taxable, as siblings are considered relatives.

Ensure the transaction is done via legal channels and keep all relevant documents.

Reporting large amounts to the Income Tax Department is a good practice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 05, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello I joined private ltd. firm in October, 2024. The company has not provided me appointment letter and salary slip but credited my salary in my account. When I asked for appointment letter and salary slips the company just forwarded me mail on 20th January 2025 to handover the charge to other person without any notice to me which I did. Now they are not paying my December salary and January, 2025 full and final settlement. I was property manager in the company. Please suggest me what can be done in this case.
Ans: Your employer’s actions are unprofessional and unfair. You have legal options to claim your salary and final settlement.

Gather All Supporting Documents
Bank Statements: Show proof of salary credited for previous months.
Emails & Messages: Keep all communication with HR and management.
Work Records: Maintain any reports, client interactions, or tasks completed.
Company Policies: If you have access to any written policies, keep them.
These documents will strengthen your case.

Send a Formal Email Request
Draft a polite but firm email to HR and management.
Mention your pending salary and final settlement details.
Request a timeline for the payment.
Attach proof of salary credits and work done.
Give them a deadline of 7-10 days to respond.
Written communication creates a legal record of your request.

Send a Legal Notice Through a Lawyer
If the company does not respond, consult a labour lawyer.
A legal notice can push the company to clear dues.
Mention your job role, tenure, and pending salary.
Demand payment within a reasonable time.
A legal notice increases pressure on the employer.

File a Complaint with Labour Authorities
Private firms must follow labour laws regarding salary payments.
Visit the local Labour Commissioner’s office.
Submit a complaint with all supporting documents.
The department will issue notices and mediate with the company.
Labour authorities can legally intervene in salary disputes.

Consider Legal Action in Court
If all else fails, you can file a case in labour court.
Courts handle cases of unpaid salaries and wrongful termination.
A lawyer can guide you on the legal process and expected timeline.
Legal action is a strong step but ensures justice.

Finally
You have every right to claim your salary and final settlement. Follow a structured approach—start with written communication, then escalate legally if needed. Employers cannot deny rightful dues without consequences.

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x