Types of NPS Accounts

What is an NPS Tier I Account?

The Tier I account is the primary NPS account and is mandatory for all subscribers. Upon opening this account, you're issued a Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN).

To open a Tier I account, you'll need to submit accurate details along with the necessary documents in the registration form.

The Key features of the Tier I Account are:

• Minimum contribution: You will need to contribute ₹ 500 per contribution; the minimum contribution you can make per year is ₹ 1000.
• Lock-in Period: The funds are locked in until you turn 60 years of age.
• Tax Benefits: The tax benefits are eligible under sections 80C and 80CCD of the Income Tax Act
• Account Opening Requirements:
• A properly filled registration form
• Valid KYC (know your customer) documents
• Your initial contribution

What is an NPS Tier II Account?

The Tier II account is optional and accessible only to existing Tier I subscribers. While it offers similar investment choices and fund charges as Tier I, it doesn't offer tax benefits.

The key features of the NPS Tier II Account are:

• Minimum Contribution: You will need to make a contribution of ₹1000 at the time of opening; no minimum transaction afterwards.
• Withdrawals: The withdrawals are flexible and are permitted at any time.
• Tax benefits: There are no tax benefits in this account.
• Investment options: The investment options are the same as those of the Tier I account, including government bonds, equity, and corporate bonds.
• Fund management charges: The charges are 0.01% per annum, the same as Tier I

Key Highlights of the NPS Scheme

• Eligibility: All Indian citizens between the age group of 18-60 years can open the NPS account.
• Maturity Age: The maturity age of the scheme is 60 years, which can be further extended up to 70 years.
• Interest Rate: The current interest rate applicable to the investment done in the NPS account is 9%-12%.
• Tax Exemptions: The NPS benefit also includes tax exemption under section 80C of the Income Tax Act up to the maximum contribution of ₹1.5 lakh made towards the NPS.

Top 5 Reasons to Include NPS in Your Retirement Planning

1. Dual Benefits: Power of Compounding and Low Cost

   Start small, grow big. NPS allows contributions as low as:

   • Tier I: ₹ 500 per contribution (₹ 1,000/year minimum)
   • Tier II: ₹ 1,000 at account opening

   Your money grows steadily through compounding and smart asset allocation.

2. Higher Returns than Traditional Schemes

   Your NPS funds are invested in a mix of equity, corporate bonds, and government securities, delivering returns between 9% to 12%. That's often higher than PPF or fixed deposits.

3. Investment Flexibility

   You have full control over how your money is invested:

   • Active Choice: Select your asset allocation manually
   • Auto Choice: Investments are allocated automatically based on age
   • Switching: you can change asset mix twice a year and pension fund once a year.

4. Comprehensive Tax Benefits

   NPS follows the EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt) tax model:

   • Under Section 80C: Up to ₹ 1.5 lakh deductible
   • Additional ₹ 50,000: Under Section 80CCD(1B)
   • Employer Contributions: Deductible under 80CCD(2)

   At Maturity: 60% withdrawal is tax-free; 40% goes into annuity (taxable as per slab)

5. Assured Retirement Income through Annuity

   On retirement, 40% of your NPS corpus must be used to buy an annuity plan, ensuring a steady monthly pension. The remaining 60% can be withdrawn tax-free.

Wrapping it Up

With its structured investment framework, investing in the NPS system is a cost-effective step towards building a secure and resilient retirement plan. Whether you're an employee on a payslip or self-employed, NPS offers a perfect mix of tax savings, long-term wealth creation, and flexibility.

In 2025, the scheme continues to grow with technological tools, better savings performance, and financial awareness among investors. Stay consistent and let the power of investing work in your favour. If financial stability is your goal, NPS is one of the smartest choices you can make today.