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Mihir

Mihir Tanna  |1054 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on May 26, 2023

Mihir Ashok Tanna, who works with a well-known chartered accountancy firm in Mumbai, has more than 15 years of experience in direct taxation.
He handles various kinds of matters related to direct tax such as PAN/ TAN application; compliance including ITR, TDS return filing; issuance/ filing of statutory forms like Form 15CB, Form 61A, etc; application u/s 10(46); application for condonation of delay; application for lower/ nil TDS certificate; transfer pricing and study report; advisory/ opinion on direct tax matters; handling various income-tax notices; compounding application on show cause for TDS default; verification of books for TDS/ TCS/ equalisation levy compliance; application for pending income-tax demand and refund; charitable trust taxation and compliance; income-tax scrutiny and CIT(A) for all types of taxpayers including individuals, firms, LLPs, corporates, trusts, non-resident individuals and companies.
He regularly represents clients before the income tax authorities including the commissioner of income tax (appeal).... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2023Hindi
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how is long term capital gain tax calculated if last property was on solo 1 person ownership and new property purchased is on joint ownership(more than 1 person)?

Ans: Person can invest capital gain earned from one house property in acquiring another house property to save tax from capital gain. New house property can be in joint name.

As soon as capital gain amount is invested in new house property, Jointly acquired property will not make ineligle from capital gain exemption.
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  |8617 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

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Sold a joint ( self and wife) property. Each got 50% sale proceeds in respective bank accts. TDS also deducted separately. Can we now buy a joint property to obviate Capital Gains Tax.
Ans: Congratulations on successfully selling your joint property and managing the proceeds wisely! It's wonderful to see you taking proactive steps towards optimizing your financial situation.

Now, regarding your question about buying a joint property to obviate Capital Gains Tax, let's break it down:

Firstly, it's essential to understand that the sale of a property typically attracts Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on any profit earned from the sale.
However, under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act, there's a provision for exemption from CGT if the sale proceeds are reinvested in another property within a specified time frame.
In your case, since both you and your wife received 50% of the sale proceeds separately in your respective bank accounts, each of you can utilize your share to purchase a new property individually or jointly.
By purchasing a joint property, you can pool your resources and invest in a new asset together. This can be a strategic move to utilize the sale proceeds effectively and potentially minimize tax implications.
However, it's crucial to ensure that the new property meets the criteria for CGT exemption under Section 54. For example, the property should be purchased within the specified time frame and held for a certain period to qualify for the exemption.
Additionally, consult with a tax expert or Certified Financial Planner to understand the specific eligibility criteria and implications of reinvesting the sale proceeds in a joint property.
Keep in mind that while buying a property can offer potential tax benefits, it's essential to consider other factors such as location, affordability, and long-term financial goals.
As you navigate this process, remember that careful planning and informed decision-making are key. Seek professional guidance to ensure compliance with tax laws and optimize your financial outcomes.
Finally, I commend you for being proactive in exploring options to manage your finances effectively. With the right guidance and strategy, you can make informed choices that align with your goals and aspirations. Best of luck on your journey!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8617 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 2024

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My husband and his brother jointly invested in a property 20 years back, for an amount of 8 lakhs (equal share between them). However the property was registered only on the brother's name. Now he intends to sell the property for 70 lakhs and share the sale proceeds with my husband equally. What would be the Long Term Capital Gain tax liability on both the brothers after the sale? Can he transfer my husband's share as 'Gift" within blood relation, being his own brother?
Ans: The Long-Term Capital Gain (LTCG) tax liability on the sale of the property will depend on various factors, including the purchase price, sale price, and holding period. Here's how it's calculated:

Determine Cost of Acquisition: The cost of acquisition for your husband's share would be his portion of the original investment, i.e., Rs. 4 lakhs.

Calculate Indexed Cost of Acquisition: Adjust the cost of acquisition for inflation using the Cost Inflation Index (CII) for the relevant financial years. This indexed cost will be used to calculate the LTCG.

Deduct Indexed Cost from Sale Price: Subtract the indexed cost of acquisition from the sale price to determine the LTCG.

Apply LTCG Tax Rate: As per current tax laws, LTCG on the sale of immovable property is taxed at 20% with indexation.

Compute Tax Liability: Calculate the tax payable on the LTCG at the applicable rate of 20%.

Transfer of Share as Gift:

Your husband's brother can transfer your husband's share of the sale proceeds as a gift within the blood relation. However, it's essential to consider the tax implications of such a transfer:

Gift Tax Liability: Gifts received from relatives are generally exempt from tax under the Income Tax Act. Therefore, your husband should not incur any gift tax liability on receiving his share of the sale proceeds from his brother.

Documentation: Ensure proper documentation for the gift transaction, including a gift deed or a written agreement, to establish the transfer of ownership legally.

Avoiding Tax Evasion: While gifting within blood relations is permissible, it's crucial to ensure compliance with tax laws and avoid any suspicion of tax evasion. Proper documentation and transparency are essential to demonstrate the legitimate nature of the transaction.

Consultation with Tax Advisor:

Given the complexity of tax implications and legal requirements, it's advisable to consult with a tax advisor or chartered accountant who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and ensure compliance with tax laws.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8617 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 31, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 31, 2025
Money
Sir, I am 57 years old and working in a private company with salary of Rs.81,000/month. I have purchased three Max life life gain-20 policy insurances each with Rs. 50000 premiums for 6 years pay (Total Rs.9 Lakhs) (2012-2018). Purchased policy of one-time lumpsum LIC Jeevan shanti pension plan for Rs.10 Lakhs and the 1st annuity payment of Rs. 10,054/month starts from year 2029. Also invested Rs. 8 Lakhs in Post office pension plan of 5 years which I am continuing it every 5 years where i get nearly Rs.5000/month. I have one more Max life guaranteed monthly income plan of 6 pay premium of 1,15,458/year which is completed in 2018 and started getting pension for first five years Rs.5000/month and then from 6th year getting Rs.9400/month pension. It will end in 2029. Now I have purchased in HDFC Guaranteed Pension Plan for Rs. 10 Lakhs for 5 five years with premium of Rs.2 Lakhs per year where I have paid 1st premium in 2024. This will give annuity of Rs. 94,599/year i.e, Rs.7883/month after 6 years (year 2029 onwards). I have FDs of Rs. 21 Lakhs which I am renewing it every year which I cannot touch as it is meant for my 2 children. My monthly expenditure is Rs.35,000 since I am staying small city. Please suggest me how can I manage to get a monthly pension of Rs. 40,000 when I quit the job at the age 61 (year 2029). Thank you
Ans: You have made many thoughtful financial decisions. Let us now work together to align your investments to ensure a regular income of Rs. 40,000 per month from age 61 (year 2029).

Here is a 360-degree detailed plan structured under clear sub-headings, as per your request.

 
1. Understanding Your Current Situation

Your age is 57. You have 4 more working years.

 

Your current income is Rs. 81,000 per month.

 

Your monthly expenses are Rs. 35,000. You are financially disciplined.

 

You already have pension sources planned post-2029.

 

You do not want to touch your Rs. 21 lakh FD corpus. It is for your children.

 

Your goal is to generate Rs. 40,000/month from age 61. You seek certainty and consistency.

 

You have invested in both insurance and pension products. Most are non-market linked.

 
2. Summary of Pension Flows from 2029

Let’s break down what income you are expected to receive starting 2029:

 

LIC annuity: Rs. 10,054 per month

 

Post Office pension: Rs. 5,000 per month (if continued)

 

Max Life Guaranteed Monthly Income Plan: Rs. 9,400 per month (till 2029, so not helpful after)

 

HDFC Pension Plan: Rs. 7,883 per month

 

Total confirmed pension starting 2029: Rs. 22,937 per month

 

Gap to reach Rs. 40,000 per month: Rs. 17,000 approx.

 
So, we need to plan how to fill this Rs. 17,000 shortfall.

 
3. Insurance Policies Review

You have 3 traditional Max Life Life Gain-20 plans. Total premium: Rs. 9 lakhs.

 

These are low return, low flexibility products.

 

They are mostly insurance-cum-investment products.

 

Such plans yield 4% to 5% returns over long term. Not ideal for income generation.

 
Suggestion: You have already completed all premiums. It is not advisable to surrender them now. You can wait for maturity. Then, reinvest maturity amount in mutual funds for monthly income.

 
4. Gaps in Income from 2029

Let us now build strategy to generate extra Rs. 17,000 per month post 2029.

 

You have 4 more years before retirement. These are crucial for wealth building.

 

Let us identify available surplus each month. Your income is Rs. 81,000. Expenses are Rs. 35,000.

 

That gives you Rs. 46,000 monthly surplus.

 

From this, set aside some amount for emergency fund and health cover.

 

You can still invest Rs. 30,000 per month comfortably.

 

This amount can be channelised into high-growth investments.

 
5. Investment Strategy Before Retirement

The focus is to build an income-generating portfolio.

 

Allocate Rs. 30,000 per month into equity mutual funds.

 

Prefer actively managed mutual funds. Avoid index funds. Index funds are average performers.

 

Actively managed funds give flexibility and can outperform index. Especially with expert guidance.

 

Invest through regular plans with support of a Mutual Fund Distributor who is also a Certified Financial Planner.

 

Regular plans offer ongoing tracking and guidance. Direct funds lack personalised service.

 

At this age, you need guidance more than saving few rupees on commissions.

 

Use combination of Large Cap, Flexi Cap and Balanced Advantage Funds.

 

These funds suit your risk profile and retirement timeline.

 

Continue SIPs till 2029. Build corpus.

 

From 2029, use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) for monthly income.

 

This can generate the extra Rs. 17,000 you need.

 
6. SWP Strategy for Post-Retirement Income

SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) is ideal for retirement income.

 

You can redeem small fixed amounts monthly.

 

Your money remains invested and continues to grow.

 

This provides regular income + capital appreciation.

 

SWP is more tax-efficient than interest income.

 

With mutual fund taxation, long-term capital gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh is tax-free.

 

Above this limit, taxed at only 12.5%.

 

Plan withdrawals in such a way to remain tax-efficient.

 

This gives much better returns than traditional pension plans.

 
7. FDs for Children – Do Not Touch

You have Rs. 21 lakhs in FDs for children. This is a wise allocation.

 

Do not disturb this amount.

 

Just keep renewing annually.

 

If needed, reinvest maturity into debt mutual funds for better returns.

 

But ensure the capital remains safe.

 
8. Other Points to Consider

Review health insurance. Ensure Rs. 10 lakh individual health cover.

 

Also have Rs. 25 lakh family floater cover if dependents exist.

 

Medical costs rise faster than inflation. Health cover is crucial.

 

Keep emergency fund of Rs. 2 lakhs in savings account or liquid funds.

 

Avoid new insurance policies. Focus on wealth creation, not insurance.

 

Avoid annuity products. They offer low returns and lack flexibility.

 

Annuities are taxed fully. Mutual funds are more tax-friendly.

 
9. Timeline and Action Plan

From 2025 to 2029:

 

Invest Rs. 30,000 per month in mutual funds.

 

Review portfolio every 6 months with Certified Financial Planner.

 

Avoid investing in new endowment or pension plans.

 

Build corpus of at least Rs. 22 lakhs to generate Rs. 17,000 monthly post 2029.

 
From 2029 onwards:

 

Use pension income from LIC, Post Office, HDFC plan.

 

Use SWP from mutual fund corpus to get additional Rs. 17,000 per month.

 

Review income annually. Adjust SWP amount as per inflation.

 
10. Asset Allocation Recommendation

Ideal mix for your age and goals:

 

50% Equity Mutual Funds (growth + income via SWP)

 

30% Pension sources (LIC, HDFC, PO schemes)

 

20% Emergency and FD funds (untouched)

 
11. Retirement Income Taxation Insight

Annuity income is fully taxable.

 

SWP income is tax-efficient. Long term capital gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh is tax-free.

 

Income from mutual funds can be managed to stay within tax slabs.

 

FDs also fully taxable. Use cautiously.

 
12. Final Insights

You are on the right track. You have created solid pension base.

 

Only gap is Rs. 17,000 per month from 2029.

 

This gap can be filled by building equity mutual fund portfolio in next 4 years.

 

Mutual funds offer growth, flexibility and tax-efficiency.

 

Avoid further insurance products. They are not meant for income generation.

 

Track expenses post retirement. Adjust lifestyle if needed.

 

Review investments annually with Certified Financial Planner.

 

Do not go for risky products or unregulated schemes.

 

Stay disciplined. Follow the plan. You will reach your goal peacefully.

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5572 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 31, 2025

Career
Sir i got ECE(Embedded systems) with an minor course of artificial intelligence and machine learning in VIT-AP under fee category 1 is it is good course to join and can we get good packages with that course
Ans: VIT-AP’s ECE (Embedded Systems) with a minor in AI/ML under Category 1 fees is a strong choice, blending core electronics with cutting-edge AI applications. The program offers ABET-accredited coursework covering ARM architecture, FPGA design, IoT, and real-time operating systems, complemented by AI/ML modules like Python, neural networks, and data analytics. Labs feature NVIDIA Jetson Nano kits, ARM Cortex-M boards, and industry tools (TensorFlow, MATLAB), ensuring hands-on expertise in embedded-AI integration. While core ECE roles (embedded developer, IoT engineer) are prioritized, the AI/ML minor enables transitions into AI-driven robotics, automotive systems, or industrial automation. VIT-AP’s 95% placement rate (2024) for ECE includes recruiters like Intel, Bosch, and Samsung for embedded roles, while TCS/Infosys hire for AI/ML-adjacent IT positions. The curriculum’s 30+ industry projects (e.g., drone navigation using ML) enhance employability, though niche AI roles may require certifications (NVIDIA DLI, AWS ML). Category 1’s lower fees (?7.8L tuition) make it cost-effective, but ensure proactive skill-building via hackathons and research papers to leverage hybrid ECE-AI opportunities. All the BEST for your Admission & a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURURS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8617 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 31, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 31, 2025
Money
Sir, I have closed my ppf account and got 10 lacs. Should I invest these in mutual fund or repay my home loan(at 8.25%). Request to share few of good mutual funds.
Ans: You have shared detailed inputs. I really appreciate your clarity and effort. Your goals are big and your commitment towards them is sincere. Now let us assess your mutual fund portfolio, analyse gaps and plan a proper rebalancing strategy.

Below is a complete 360-degree review of your investments and recommendations.

Investment Goals Review
You have two important goals.

First, Rs 1 crore for your child’s education after 10 years.

Second, Rs 1 crore for your retirement after 10 years.

Both goals are clear, time-bound and realistic.

Your goal-based investing mindset is appreciable.

Your high risk appetite also helps in targeting long-term wealth creation.

Since your goals are after 10 years, an equity-oriented strategy suits you well.

But continuous monitoring and timely rebalancing is important.

Staying invested is not enough. Strategic adjustments are needed over time.

Let us evaluate your existing SIPs next.

Existing SIP Portfolio Assessment
You are currently investing Rs 15,500 every month through SIPs.

All your funds are from equity categories.

Your portfolio has coverage in large cap, mid cap, flexicap and large & mid cap.

This gives a decent diversification within equity.

There is sectoral and market cap mix in place.

You have avoided overlapping funds, which is good.

Overall fund selection shows that you are targeting growth.

The portfolio leans more towards mid cap and flexicap strategies.

These have potential for high growth but also higher volatility.

A balance of stability and growth is needed going ahead.

There is no hybrid or balanced allocation yet.

This limits protection during market downturns.

SIP amounts also need to be increased gradually towards your Rs 25,000 limit.

Let us now look at your discontinued SIPs.

Analysis of Discontinued SIPs
You have stopped SIPs in two equity funds.

First, a small cap fund with Rs 56,000 invested.

Second, an emerging bluechip fund with Rs 2.64 lakhs invested.

You have not redeemed them yet.

Retaining them without active investment creates portfolio imbalance.

These funds are lying idle without a goal alignment.

Small caps are highly volatile and risky in nature.

In a high-risk profile, small caps are okay but in limited exposure only.

The emerging bluechip fund has a mid and large cap mix.

But as you have stopped SIPs here, it's not adding consistency anymore.

Keeping these without integration weakens your portfolio structure.

You must rebalance and reinvest them wisely.

Rebalancing Strategy for Idle Funds
You can plan fresh allocation from the Rs 3.2 lakh idle investments.

Divide it between small cap and hybrid funds.

Allocate Rs 1 lakh to small cap fund in lumpsum.

Use only a high-quality, consistently performing small cap fund.

Start fresh SIP of Rs 2,000 in the same small cap fund monthly.

Avoid sector-based or thematic small caps. Use only diversified fund.

Allocate remaining Rs 2.2 lakhs into a hybrid aggressive equity fund.

This hybrid fund will provide cushion during volatile market periods.

Hybrid funds offer growth and protection.

They rebalance equity and debt dynamically.

They reduce emotional panic during market corrections.

Also start SIP of Rs 2,000 in the same hybrid fund.

Gradual entry through SIP helps reduce risk.

Monthly SIP Reallocation
You can invest up to Rs 25,000 monthly in SIPs.

You are currently investing Rs 15,500.

Increase SIPs by Rs 9,500 across suggested categories.

Here is a balanced approach for this:

Increase flexicap fund SIP by Rs 2,000.

Start fresh SIP in hybrid aggressive fund for Rs 2,000.

Start fresh SIP in a small cap fund for Rs 2,000.

Increase SIP in large and midcap fund by Rs 1,500.

Increase SIP in large cap fund by Rs 2,000.

This mix will offer growth and controlled volatility.

Key Strengths in Your Portfolio
You are consistent in SIP investments.

You have selected funds from different categories.

Your goals are clear and measurable.

You have stopped some SIPs but not exited impulsively.

You have stayed invested in equity through all phases.

Your risk profile is well aligned to your strategy.

Areas That Need Improvement
There is no allocation to hybrid or debt.

All current SIPs are in pure equity.

Portfolio lacks downside protection.

Small caps need to be handled cautiously.

Idle investments must be put to use.

SIP amount is under-utilised. You can invest more.

No automatic rebalancing mechanism is in place.

Future goals need better alignment with asset allocation.

Importance of Diversified Allocation
Equity is good for growth.

But combining it with hybrid gives better stability.

Flexicap and large & mid cap give market-wide coverage.

Small cap must be less than 10-15% of overall portfolio.

Hybrid funds manage asset mix smartly.

They reduce emotional decision-making in volatile markets.

Flexibility in funds increases long-term success.

Risk Management Suggestions
Equity funds carry market risk.

Small cap and mid cap have high volatility.

Avoid overexposure to one market cap.

Limit small cap exposure to 10-12% of total.

Maintain some investments in hybrid or balanced funds.

Don’t try to time the market.

Stay invested through ups and downs.

Review your portfolio once every 6 months.

Taxation Awareness
When selling equity mutual funds:

LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

Plan redemption only after checking tax impact.

Keep track of each fund’s holding period.

Avoid Direct Funds
You did not mention direct funds. But here is a key note.

Direct funds may look cheaper.

But they don’t offer guidance or support.

Investing through an MFD with CFP certification adds great value.

You get timely reviews, goal alignment and hand-holding.

Many investors lose more by mistakes in direct funds.

Avoid Index Funds
Index funds follow a passive strategy.

They just copy the market index.

No active selection or exit is done by the fund manager.

During market falls, index funds also fall without protection.

Actively managed funds aim for better risk-adjusted returns.

Good active funds can beat benchmarks consistently.

Next Steps to Follow
Reinvest idle funds into small cap and hybrid fund.

Start fresh SIPs of Rs 2,000 in each.

Increase existing SIPs to reach Rs 25,000 monthly.

Focus on flexicap, hybrid, large and midcap.

Keep small cap SIP under 15% of monthly SIP.

Stay invested with discipline for 10 years.

Don’t panic during market corrections.

Do portfolio review every 6 months.

Take guidance from Certified Financial Planner regularly.

Finally
You have built a good foundation.

You just need sharper planning now.

Your goals are possible with a better structure.

Rebalance idle investments.

Allocate monthly SIPs smartly.

Focus on stability, growth and discipline.

You are on the right track. Continue with focus and patience.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide you further with custom planning.

Keep your financial journey goal-driven and well-monitored.

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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