The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is widely recognized as one of the most favored investment schemes, backed by the government and offering attractive interest rates and tax benefits. However, adherence to specific norms is crucial for maintaining a PPF account and avoiding penalties. Here are some valuable tips on steering clear of penalties on your PPF account:
To prevent penalties and ensure account continuity, it is essential to make a minimum annual contribution of Rs 500 to your PPF account. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the discontinuation of your account, accompanied by a penalty when reactivating it.
You can initiate a PPF investment with as little as Rs 500. Once the account is active, sustaining it mandates an annual deposit of at least Rs 500. Failure to do so will lead to deactivation, requiring a visit to the bank branch to reactivate the account by paying a Rs 50 penalty and making a minimum Rs 500 deposit.
The second tip emphasizes investing before the fifth of each month. PPF interest is calculated on the minimum balance from the fifth to the end of the month. Depositing after the fifth results in the forfeiture of interest for that month, constituting a form of penalty.
Preserving the account’s 15-year tenure is crucial. Premature closure incurs penalties, although certain exceptional circumstances permit closure after at least five years, subject to a 1% reduction in interest.
The fourth tip advises against taking loans against your PPF. While borrowing is an option, these loans accrue interest, potentially diminishing returns.
Fifthly, it’s essential to stay within the annual deposit limit of Rs 1.5 lakh in a financial year. Exceeding this limit results in the excess amount earning no interest and providing no tax benefits.
PPF investments offer numerous advantages, including a 15-year lock-in period suitable for long-term financial goals. It promotes regular saving habits, and both the principal investment and interest earned are tax-exempt under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Given its non-market-linked nature, PPF is low-risk, ensuring assured returns.
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For those aligning with PPF’s benefits, it’s advisable to take the necessary steps to keep the investment active. With its manifold advantages, PPF can be a valuable addition to your portfolio, aiding in achieving long-term financial goals.
