5 Investment Options for The Retired

This article will guide you through 5 best investment options for the retired, its benefits, features, and much more.

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme

Senior citizen savings scheme is a fully Government-sponsored savings option. It is specifically designed keeping in mind the senior citizens of India and provides them financial security and stability after retirement.

Under the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme, regular income is offered to Indian residents aged 60 years and above even if they have retired. Generally, the deposits are invested for a period of 5 years but it can also extend to an additional period of 3 years depending upon the policyholder.

The main focus of Senior Citizen Savings Scheme is to mobilize small savings into regular returns. Investments and tax benefits are also included along with regular returns.

Senior Citizen Saving Scheme - Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for Senior Citizen Saving Scheme is as follows:

• When the age of an Indian citizen is 60 years or above

One can benefit under the SCSS if the age of the policyholder is between 55-60 years, provided the senior citizen is retired under the category of VRS. Within one month of enjoying the benefits of retirement, the SCSS account should be in existence. The policyholder should keep in mind that invested amount can never exceed the amount of the retirement benefits.

• In case of a joint account, the eligibility is determined based on the age criteria of the primary policyholder as mentioned above. There are no age restrictions when it comes to the secondary policyholder.

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana is a non-linked, non-participating pension plan launched by the Indian Government for senior citizens of India. The PMVVY scheme includes pension rates and an extended period of sale of the policy. The PMVVY (Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana) scheme offers loan facility as well. The interest on the loan shall be recovered from amount of pension that is payable under this plan.

Interest rates applicable on the amount are completely based on the options that are approved by the IRDAI.

Eligibility under Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana

Following eligibility criteria needs to be considered while purchasing the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana:

Fixed Deposits (FDs)

Fixed Deposits are always a popular choice, be it for NRIs, retirees, or young generation. Because of its fixed, regular income along with safety, Fixed Deposits are always considered on the top while planning to invest.

Banks generally offer a higher interest rates on Fixed Deposits for retirees than other account holders. Financial year income up to 50,000 is completely tax-free for senior citizens under Section 80TTB of the Income Tax Act. Flexibility in terms of tenure makes Fixed Deposit a favorite among retirees.

Those planning to save tax along with investment should definitely go for bank Fixed Deposits.

Mutual Funds

One of the most popular investment options these days, mutual funds refer to a pool of accumulated sums by various investors. Mutual funds are the lucrative option of investment for retirees who want to multiply their savings and create a financial cushion in the long term. They offer the retirees a great way to diversify their portfolios.

Depending upon the risk appetite, a retiree should allocate a percentage of their savings in equity funds, or debt funds, or both. A retiree is advised to keep their hands more in debt funds because of their easy liquidity in the future.

Immediate Annuity

As the name suggests, a pension is provided immediately under the immediate annuity. Based on the lump-sum amount paid by the policyholder, pension is provided immediately. Under Income Tax Act, 1961, premiums paid are tax-exempted. The annuity currently is around 5-6% per annum and is completely taxable. 

There are different pension scheme options available and one can be bought by paying one-time payments as well as paying regular premium payments.

It is always advised to diversify the portfolio across different investment options rather than investing in one scheme where you have to manage your own portfolio. Immediate annuities are considered a little risky and hence, investment should be made keeping all the possibilities in mind.

Summing It Up

Investment is a vital part in anyone’s life especially a retiree. A retiree needs to invest in the best suited investment option so that they are financially independent even after their retirement.

With all the expenses in this financially growing world, it is important to create a good corpus for your retirement planning.

So, choose the right investment option and invest wisely!