Know The Benefits offered By  Atal Pension Yojana

For workers working in the unorganized sector financial planning may seem far-fetched. However, to secure the financial future of the workers working in unorganized sectors like drivers, maids, gardeners, etc. the Atal Pension Yojana was launched by the government in June 2015.

The Atal Pension Yojana was specifically launched with an objective to help workers to save money for their retirement days and guarantees return post-retirement. This social security scheme was launched in replacement to the previous government scheme Swavalamban Yojana. To ensure the financial security of the individuals, the scheme also guarantees a 50% co-contribution by the Central Government of the total prescribed contribution by the workers i.e. up to Rs. 1000 per annum. However, this contribution is only available for those who joined Atal Pension Yojana before 31.12.2015. let’s read further to know more about Atal Pension Yojana Scheme.

Atal Pension Yojana Benefits

The Atal Pension Yojana is structured in a very simple way. As one of the safest pension plans, APY  is very easy to understand for anyone who wants to open the account under the scheme. The Atal Pension Yojana savings scheme benefits can also be availed by the employees of the private sector. As per one’s requirement, the subscriber can choose the contribution amount. The following are different Atal Pension Yojana Benefits to know about.

• Death Benefits

  The Atal Pension Yojana death benefits can be availed by the spouse of the contributor. In case of death of the subscriber, the pension is automatically given to the spouse who is the default nominee. In case of demise of the subscriber and the spouse, the nominee will receive a predefined accumulated amount for the particular pension slab. In case of the subscriber’s demise before the age of 60 years, the spouse has the option to either close the account and receive the accumulated fund or continue the APY account and receive the pension after 60 years.

• Retirement Benefits

   Retirement benefits are the main objective of the Atal Pension Yojana scheme. Based on the contribution made by the subscribers, they are entitled to receive the guaranteed pension amount of Rs. 1000/ Rs.2000/ Rs.3000/ Rs. 4000 or Rs. 5000 on attaining the age of 60 years. The contribution amounts for these pensions are different. The subscriber will be In the event of the unfortunate demise of the subscriber, the pension amount will be paid to the spouse or nominee of the scheme.

• Tax Benefit

   Along with the Atal Pension Yojana benefit of guaranteed return, the scheme also offers tax benefits under Section 80CCD of the Income Tax Act.

  The entire accumulated fund is managed and distributed by the Pension Funds Regulatory and Development Authority of India. As a government-backed savings scheme, it is one of the safest investment options available in the market that helps the individual to financially secure their life after retirement.

The Eligibility Criteria for Atal Pension Yojana

• The subscriber must have a savings bank account linked with Adhaar Card Number and registered mobile number.
• The individual should age between 18 years to 40 years.
• The minimum contribution limit is of 20 years.

Monthly Contribution and Mode of Payment

The Atal Pension Yojana is a government-initiated pension scheme wherein the subscribers need to make a periodic contribution towards the scheme. The accumulated fund is paid back to the subscriber in form of a fixed monthly income of Rs. 1000/ Rs.2000/ Rs.3000/ Rs. 4000 or Rs. 5000 on attaining the age of 60 years. The monthly contribution depends on the amount of monthly pension you would like to get after retirement. Thus, even if an individual joins the scheme at the age of 40 years he/she will need to contribute towards the scheme for the tenure of 20 years to receive the annuity.

How to Apply for Atal Pension Yojana Scheme?

To apply for the APY scheme, the individual will need to visit the post office or bank where the savings bank account is held. The individual can also apply for the APY by using internet banking and select the auto-debit facility for the contributions. The premiums will be debited from the age of enrolment to 60 years of age.  

The Procedure of Withdrawal From Atal Pension Yojana Scheme

• Upon completion of 60 years of Age

  Once the individual reaches the age of 60 years, he/she will need to get in touch with the respective post office or bank and submit the request form for drawing the pension. However, if the subscriber dies after the age of 60 years, the same amount of monthly pension will be paid to the spouse. In case of the demise of both the subscriber and the spouse, the nominee will be entitled to receive the accumulated fund.

• Exit Before The Age of 60 Years

  As per the circular dated May 2, 2016, on the PFRDA website, exit before age of 60 years is not permitted. However, in specific circumstances like terminal illness or the death of the subscriber, the voluntary exit is allowed. 

The Bottom Point!

As a government backed savings scheme, Atal Pension Yojana benefits the individuals working in unorganized sector and help to secure the financial future after retirement. With simple features and safe investment, this scheme is best for individuals who wants to avail guaranteed return on investment.