Financial planning is beyond just investing wisely to save on taxes; it’s also related to protecting oneself and one’s loved ones from any eventuality. In this regard, life insurance is an effective investment tool that ensures both financial security and smart investments through tax efficiency.
Generally, life insurance policies provide several tax benefits that can ensure considerable savings for policyholders. When compared with other investment avenues, such as fixed deposits (FDs), stocks, and gold, which may attract taxation and market volatility, life insurance policies provide tax savings.
An eye on tax-saving benefits of life insurance
Deductions under Section 80C of the Income-Tax Act (ITA), 1961: Usually, premiums paid about most life insurance policies qualify for deductions under Section 80C of the ITA1. This deduction, up to a threshold of Rs 1.5 lakh annually, can reduce taxable income and, as a result, influences tax burden, too.
Tax-exempt maturity proceeds: The maturity proceeds or death benefit that a beneficiary of a life insurance policy is entitled to receive are generally tax-free under Section 10(10D) of the ITA. This exemption ensures that loved ones get the full benefit of the insurance payout without any tax deductions.
Tax benefits for critical illness riders: A few life insurance products provide critical illness riders. Premiums which are paid towards such riders are eligible for deductions under Section 80D of the ITA. This way provides additional tax advantages.
Key strategies for tax-efficient insurance planning
Tax-deferred growth: Life insurance policies with an investment component, such as Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs), can provide potential growth of an investment over a period. The gains accumulated within such policies are tax-deferred.
Tax-free withdrawals or loans: A few life insurance policies allow a policyholder to initiate partial withdrawals or take loans against the policy’s cash value. Generally, such withdrawals or loans are tax-exempt, providing individual access to funds in times of necessity minus immediate tax implications.
Estate planning: Life insurance is known to play a significant role in estate planning. By strategically designating beneficiaries, an individual can ensure that their assets are transferred seamlessly and loved ones continue to remain financially secure. Also, the insurance pay-out can aid in offsetting any estate taxes or other liabilities, easing the financial burden on inheritors.
Although life insurance provides potential tax savings, it is important to align one’s preferences with financial objectives. In this regard, an individual should take into account the following considerations:
Needs analysis: There is a need to conduct a thorough need analysis before purchasing any insurance policy to determine the appropriate coverage, considering dependents, liabilities, and long-term financial goals.
Product selection: It is important to opt for a life insurance product that matches an individual’s risk profile, investment preferences, and financial needs. A few of the options include traditional plans like endowment policies, money-back plans, or market-linked ULIPs.
Professional expert advice: Reaching out to a financial advisor or insurance expert in case of any doubt. This can also aid in making informed decisions related to life insurance.
Rajiv is an independent editorial consultant for the last decade. Prior to this, he worked as a full-time journalist associated with various prominent print media houses. In his spare time, he loves to paint on canvas.
