What is a Pure Endowment Plan?
A pure endowment policy meaning is easy to understand. It a type of insurance policy that pays out a lump sum amount at the end of a specified term.
The payout is guaranteed under this savings investment plan, provided that, the policyholder survives till the end of the policy term. The policyholder pays premiums to the insurer, and at the end of the term, receives a lump sum payout, which is beneficial to fund their financial goals.
This makes a pure endowment policy one of the most preferred pension plans and best investment options in India.
Features of a Pure Endowment Plan
The key features of a pure endowment plan are listed in the table mentioned below:
Features |
Details |
Guaranteed Payout |
- A pure endowment plan provides a guaranteed lump sum payout at the end of the policy term
- Only if the policyholder survives the term
|
No Maturity Benefit if Policyholder Dies |
The pure endowment policy will only pay out if the policyholder survives the term |
Fixed Policy Term |
- The policy term for pure endowment plans is fixed
- Policyholder cannot withdraw from the plan before the end of the term
|
Premium Payment |
- Policyholder needs to pay premiums regularly throughout the policy term
- To keep the policy in force
|
Maturity Benefits |
If the policyholder survives the term, they receive the lump sum payment as a retirement fund |
Nomination Facility |
- Available
- If the policyholder dies during the policy term, the nominee receives the sum assured
|
No Death Benefit |
If the policyholder dies during the policy term, the policy will not pay out any maturity benefit to their nominees |
Tax Benefits |
- Tax benefits u/ Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961
- For the premiums paid towards a pure endowment plan
|
No Surrender Value |
The policyholder cannot surrender the policy before the end of the policy term in exchange for its cash value |
Benefits of a Pure Endowment Policy
The benefits of a pure endowment plan are as follows:
-
Guaranteed Payout:
A pure endowment plan provides the policyholder with the assurance that they will receive a lump sum amount at the end of the term. These funds can be used to achieve their financial goals.
-
Long-Term Savings:
Pure endowment policies typically have a long policy term. This allows the policyholder to save for their financial goals over an extended period.
-
Tax Benefits:
Policyholders can claim tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act for the premiums paid towards a pure endowment policy. This can help them save on taxes and increase their savings.
-
Disciplined Saving:
Pure endowment policies require the policyholder to pay premiums regularly throughout the policy term, helping them develop a disciplined savings habit
-
No Market Risk:
Unlike other investment options, pure endowment policies are not affected by market fluctuations or other uncertainties. The policyholder receives a guaranteed payout at the end of the policy term, regardless of market conditions.
-
No Surrender Value:
Pure endowment policies do not offer any surrender value. This ensures that the policyholder does not prematurely withdraw from the policy and continues to contribute towards their financial targets.
Disadvantages of a Pure Endowment Policy
Here are some disadvantages of a pure endowment plan you should consider before buying:
-
No maturity benefit if policyholder dies
-
The policyholder cannot withdraw/ terminate the policy before the end of the policy term
-
Lower returns than other investment options such as mutual funds or stocks
-
Pure endowment policies do not offer any surrender value