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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 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 - Feb 23, 2024Hindi
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I worked in Private company 1991 till 2007 after I stop working in india, since 2007 after me working in Abroad how much should I expect my pension amount after my age 55 as my Basic salary and D.A.that last period is as Basic 8510 and D.A 6051 .Pls can I know how much could I receive pension. At present date my age 53 now. Thanks

Ans: Estimating Your Pension Amount from EPS
Understanding Your Financial Journey
First, it's commendable that you are planning for your retirement. Knowing the specifics of your employment history helps in estimating your pension accurately. You worked in a private company in India from 1991 to 2007 and have been working abroad since then. Your last drawn basic salary was Rs. 8,510 and Dearness Allowance (D.A.) was Rs. 6,051.

Basics of Employee Pension Scheme (EPS)
Eligibility:

Service Period: Minimum of 10 years of service is required to be eligible for the pension.
Age: Pension starts at the age of 58, but you can opt for early pension at 55 with a reduced amount.

Pensionable Salary:

It is the average salary of the last 60 months before exiting the EPS scheme.
For simplicity, let’s assume your last drawn basic + D.A. as the pensionable salary, which is Rs. 14,561 (8510 + 6051).
Pensionable Service:

Your service period is from 1991 to 2007, which is 16 years.
Early Pension Reduction
If you opt for early pension at 55, there is a reduction of 4% per year before 58. So, if you start at 55, it’s a reduction of 12% in total.

Calculating Your Pension
Without Reduction (at age 58):
Monthly Pension =(14561×16 / 70)=Rs. 3,327

With Early Pension Reduction (at age 55):
12% reduction for starting 3 years early:

Reduced Pension=3327×0.88=Rs. 2,928

Factors to Consider
Inflation: The calculated amount may seem small due to inflation over the years.

Additional Savings: Consider building a supplementary retirement corpus through other investment avenues.

Current Employment: Check if your current employment abroad provides any pension benefits or savings plans.

Recommendations for Financial Security
Mutual Funds:

Equity Mutual Funds: Invest in equity mutual funds for long-term growth to supplement your pension.
Debt Funds: These provide stability and reduce overall portfolio risk.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP):

Discipline: Start a SIP to ensure disciplined investing.
Diversification: Allocate investments across different mutual fund categories for risk mitigation.
Reassess LIC Policy:

Surrender: Consider surrendering any traditional LIC policies and reinvesting in higher-return mutual funds.
Term Insurance: Opt for term insurance for adequate life cover at a lower premium.
Emergency Fund:

Essential: Set aside 6-12 months’ worth of expenses in a liquid fund for emergencies.
Regular Review:

Monitor Investments: Periodically review and adjust your portfolio based on market conditions and personal circumstances.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to optimise your investment strategy.
Conclusion
With your pensionable service and the pension formula, your estimated pension amount at age 55 is approximately Rs. 2,928 per month. This amount is relatively modest, so it’s crucial to supplement it with additional savings and investments. By investing in mutual funds through SIPs, maintaining an emergency fund, and considering term insurance, you can build a secure financial future.

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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hello Guruji, Query regarding pension amount I joined a MNC private company in 1993 and resigned in2015 , I got a pension certificate which says I will get a pension of ?6500 pm. Post that I went abroad for 4 years and returned in 2019. I joined an Indian company for 1 year till 2020 with a salary of ?4L pm basic salary + other allowances. Post that I joined an MNC for 3.5 years , which ended last month at a basic salary of ?4.5 L pm. How much pension amount can I expect and from when ? I am 53+ years of age. Will it be both combined or how ? Please help regards Abhi
Ans: Maximizing Pension Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating pension benefits can be complex, but with strategic planning, you can optimize your retirement income. Let's delve into your situation and explore the potential pension amount you can expect.

Evaluating Pension Eligibility
Assessing Service Duration

Determine your total service duration with your previous employer from 1993 to 2015, spanning over 22 years.
Confirm the pension eligibility criteria based on your service duration with the company.
Understanding Pension Certificate

Review the pension certificate indicating a monthly pension of Rs. 6,500, provided upon your resignation in 2015.
Understand the terms and conditions outlined in the certificate regarding eligibility and payment structure.
Considering Post-Retirement Employment
International Employment

Take into account your employment abroad for four years, from 2015 to 2019, which may impact your pension entitlements.
Assess whether your international employment affects your eligibility or pension calculation.
Subsequent Indian Employment

Factor in your employment with an Indian company from 2019 to 2020, followed by a tenure with an MNC until last month.
Consider how your post-retirement employment affects your pension entitlements and calculations.
Determining Pension Amount
Combining Pension Entitlements

Combine the pension entitlement from your previous employment with the pension from your subsequent Indian employment.
Evaluate if the combined pension amount aligns with the terms specified in your pension certificate.
Calculating Pension

Calculate the total pension amount considering both periods of employment and their respective pension entitlements.
Verify if the calculated pension aligns with the pension certificate's stipulations and your service duration.
Seeking Clarifications and Guidance
Seeking Clarifications

Reach out to the pension authorities or your previous employer to clarify any doubts regarding your pension entitlements.
Request detailed explanations regarding the calculation methodology and factors influencing your pension amount.
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) specializing in retirement planning and pension benefits.
Receive expert advice on maximizing your pension entitlements and optimizing your retirement income.
Planning Ahead
Retirement Income Strategy

Develop a comprehensive retirement income strategy considering your pension entitlements, savings, and potential sources of income.
Ensure your retirement plan aligns with your financial goals, lifestyle preferences, and long-term objectives.
Regular Monitoring

Regularly monitor your pension account statements and retirement income sources to track your financial progress.
Stay informed about any updates or changes in pension regulations that may affect your retirement benefits.
Conclusion
By assessing your service duration, understanding your pension entitlements, and considering your post-retirement employment, you can determine the pension amount you can expect. Seeking clarifications, consulting with a CFP, and planning your retirement income strategy will empower you to make informed decisions and secure your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 23, 2024Hindi
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I worked in Private company 1991 till 2007 after I stop working in india, since 2007 after me working in Abroad how much should I expect my pension amount after my age 55 as my Basic salary and D.A.that last period is as Basic 8510 and D.A 6051 .Pls can I know how much could I receive pension. At present date my age 53 now. Thanks
Ans: First, let me commend you for planning ahead for your retirement. Given your work history in India and abroad, understanding your pension can be complex. Let's break it down to make it simple and clear.

Eligibility for Pension
You mentioned working in a private company in India from 1991 to 2007. The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) of 1995, managed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), would cover this period. To be eligible for a pension under EPS, an employee must complete at least 10 years of service and attain the age of 50 for early pension or 58 for regular pension.

Service Period Calculation
You have worked in India for 16 years (1991 to 2007). This makes you eligible for the EPS pension since you meet the minimum requirement of 10 years.

Pension Calculation Method
The EPS pension is calculated based on the pensionable salary and the number of years of service. The pensionable salary is the average of the last 60 months of basic salary and dearness allowance (DA).

Understanding Pensionable Salary
From your information:

Basic Salary: Rs. 8,510
Dearness Allowance (DA): Rs. 6,051
So, your pensionable salary would be the sum of your basic salary and DA.

Early Pension at Age 55
Since you are currently 53 and considering early pension at 55, there is a reduction factor applied. The pension amount is reduced by a percentage for each year before 58.

Additional Considerations
Inflation and Future Value
It is important to consider the impact of inflation on your pension amount. While the pension might seem sufficient now, its value will decrease over time due to inflation. You might want to explore other investment options to supplement your pension income.

Savings and Investments
Since you have worked abroad, you might have accumulated savings and investments there. It's essential to factor in these amounts when planning your retirement. Diversifying your investments can help ensure a stable and sufficient income during retirement.

Health Insurance
Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Healthcare costs can be significant in retirement, and having insurance can protect you from unexpected medical expenses.

Planning for Retirement
Given your current age of 53, you have a few more years to plan and save for your retirement. Here are some steps you can take:

Assess Your Financial Situation
Evaluate your current savings and investments.
Calculate your future income needs, considering inflation.
Diversify Your Investments
Invest in a mix of low-risk and high-risk options.
Consider mutual funds for long-term growth.
Review Your Insurance
Ensure you have adequate health insurance.
Consider a term life insurance policy if you don't have one.
Create a Retirement Budget
Estimate your monthly expenses in retirement.
Include costs for healthcare, travel, and leisure activities.
Final Insights
Your pension from EPS will provide a basic level of income. However, considering inflation and future financial needs, it's crucial to have a diversified investment portfolio. Planning now will help ensure a comfortable and secure retirement.

Thank you for your detailed query. Your foresight in planning for retirement is admirable. By following these steps and regularly reviewing your financial plan, you can achieve a financially secure retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I hv started sip in 2008 and still continued , now the monthly sip is 55k and total value is 1.85cr. Need to accumulate 7cr with in next 4 yrs pls guide how can i achieve. - Deepak J. Hajari
Ans: Deepak, your long-term SIP discipline is impressive. Accumulating Rs. 7 crore in 4 years is ambitious. Achieving this goal requires a strategic approach, as time is limited. Let's create an actionable plan for your success.

Current Financial Snapshot
Ongoing SIPs: Rs. 55,000 monthly.
Current Portfolio Value: Rs. 1.85 crore.
Target Corpus: Rs. 7 crore within 4 years.
Your consistent investing habits have built a solid foundation. However, to achieve your target, adjustments are needed.

Key Challenges
Short Time Frame: Four years is a limited period for aggressive wealth accumulation.
Significant Gap: A gap of Rs. 5.15 crore remains to meet the Rs. 7 crore goal.
Market Volatility: Equity investments might face short-term volatility.
Recommendations to Bridge the Gap
1. Increase Your SIP Contributions
Raise your SIP amount to Rs. 1.25 lakh per month.
This increase ensures faster wealth creation through compounding.
Prioritise high-growth funds in equity-oriented categories.
2. Invest Lump Sum Amounts
Consider deploying a lump sum if you have idle savings or low-yield investments.
Invest in aggressive equity mutual funds for higher potential returns.
Break down the lump sum into tranches for better market timing.
3. Diversify into High-Growth Mutual Funds
Focus on small-cap and mid-cap mutual funds for higher growth potential.
Maintain a balance with some large-cap exposure for stability.
Ensure the portfolio aligns with your high-return requirements.
4. Avoid Overexposure to Debt or Low-Yield Instruments
Limit debt investments during this aggressive growth phase.
Avoid instruments like FDs or debt mutual funds with lower returns.
Rely on equity for the next four years to maximise growth.
5. Rebalance Your Portfolio Regularly
Conduct a portfolio review every 6 months.
Reallocate funds based on underperforming or outperforming sectors.
Keep your portfolio aligned with market trends and your goals.
6. Capitalize on Bonus or Windfall Gains
Direct any bonuses, salary hikes, or windfall gains towards your target.
Avoid unnecessary expenses during this focused phase.
Tax Efficiency Matters
Equity Mutual Funds Taxation: Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Debt Mutual Funds Taxation: Taxed as per your income slab.
Plan redemptions strategically to minimise tax liabilities.
Leverage Market Opportunities
Benefit from Market Corrections: Use corrections as opportunities to invest lump sums.
Stay Invested for Compounding: Avoid early redemptions to let compounding work fully.
Role of Regular Monitoring
Track Performance: Ensure funds are performing as per expectations.
Switch Funds if Needed: Shift from underperforming funds to high-growth options.
Final Insights
Deepak, achieving Rs. 7 crore in 4 years requires aggressive yet calculated strategies. Increase your SIPs, deploy lump sums, and focus on high-growth funds. Regular monitoring and disciplined investing are key to your success. Stay patient and consistent.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 20, 2024Hindi
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I am 50 yrs old. If I invest 60k per month for 10 yrs in SIPs of MF then will I be able to achieve the corpus of Rs. 2.50 Crs and if not how much shall I invest per month and in which SIP schemes
Ans: You have a clear goal to invest Rs. 60,000 per month for 10 years. The goal is to accumulate Rs. 2.5 crore through mutual fund SIPs. Let us analyse your query in detail and provide actionable insights.

Evaluating the Feasibility of Your Investment Plan
10-Year Time Frame:
Ten years is a medium-term horizon. Equity-based mutual funds offer good growth potential for this period.

Monthly SIP Contribution:
A SIP of Rs. 60,000 is significant. It shows your commitment to wealth creation.

Target Corpus Analysis:
The target of Rs. 2.5 crore depends on consistent returns. Market performance influences results.

Expected Returns:
Equity funds can give 10%-12% annualised returns in the long run. However, returns are not guaranteed.

Is Rs. 60,000 Sufficient?
Your current contribution may not be sufficient to reach Rs. 2.5 crore in 10 years.

For 10%-12% Returns:
You might accumulate Rs. 1.9–2.1 crore. There could be a shortfall of Rs. 40–60 lakh.

Solution:
Increase your SIP amount to Rs. 75,000–80,000 monthly for a better chance of achieving the goal.

Optimising Your SIP Contributions
Step-Up SIPs:
Increase your SIP amount by 5%-10% every year. This adjusts for inflation and higher earnings.

Lump Sum Boost:
If you have surplus funds, invest a lump sum. This accelerates your goal.

Diversify Investments:
Allocate across equity and hybrid funds for balanced growth and risk management.

Selecting the Right SIP Investments
Actively managed funds are suitable for your goals. Avoid index funds due to their limitations.

Equity Funds for Growth:
These funds have high growth potential over 10 years.

Diversified Portfolio:
Choose funds across large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap categories. This spreads risk effectively.

Hybrid Funds:
Hybrid funds provide stability by balancing equity and debt investments.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Investing through direct funds might seem cost-effective but has drawbacks.

Limited Guidance:
Direct funds lack professional advice. This could lead to suboptimal fund choices.

Benefits of Regular Plans:
A Certified Financial Planner ensures proper fund selection and portfolio review.

Managing Tax Implications
Understanding taxation helps optimise your returns.

Long-Term Gains:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Plan redemptions strategically.

Short-Term Gains:
STCG on equity is taxed at 20%. Avoid frequent withdrawals to minimise this tax.

Hybrid Funds Taxation:
Gains from hybrid funds are taxed as per your income slab.

Steps to Achieve Rs. 2.5 Crore
Increase SIP Amount:
Raise your SIP to Rs. 75,000–80,000 monthly.

Review Annually:
Monitor portfolio performance and adjust investments.

Use a Balanced Strategy:
Combine equity funds with hybrid funds to optimise risk and return.

Seek Professional Help:
Work with a Certified Financial Planner to refine your plan.

Final Insights
Your goal of Rs. 2.5 crore in 10 years is achievable with adjustments. Increase your SIP amount and maintain discipline. Diversify investments and periodically review the portfolio. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you for maximum efficiency and clarity.

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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