ULIP – Advantages and Disadvantages

Let us learn some of the main advantages and disadvantages provided by ULIPs.

Advantages of ULIPs

ULIPs, or Unit Linked Insurance Plans, are investment-cum-insurance products that combine investment and insurance features. Here are some advantages of ULIPs:

• Market-linked returns: ULIPs provide the opportunity to invest in a wide range of funds, including equity, debt, and balanced funds, which are linked to the performance of market. It allows for potentially higher returns compared to traditional insurance policies, which usually offer fixed returns.

• Flexibility: ULIPs offer flexibility in terms of choice of premium payment options and policy tenure. Policyholders can choose investment funds based on their risk appetite and financial goals. They also have the flexibility to switch between funds based on market conditions.

• Tax benefits: ULIPs offer tax benefits under the Income Tax Act, 1961. Premiums paid towards ULIPs are eligible for tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, subject to certain limits. Additionally, the maturity proceeds or death benefit received from ULIPs are also tax-exempt under Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, subject to certain conditions.

• Insurance coverage: ULIPs provide life insurance coverage, which can financially protect the policyholder's family in case of an unfortunate event during the policy term. The insurance component of ULIPs provides a risk cover along with the investment component, making it a comprehensive financial planning tool.

• Long-term investment horizon: ULIPs are ideal for individuals with a long-term investment horizon as they provide the opportunity to stay invested for a longer duration, which can potentially result in higher returns. The lock-in period of ULIPs, 5 years as per current regulations, encourages disciplined long-term investing.

• Top-ups: Investors can also invest excess money through period top-ups provided by ULIPs. These top-ups are also eligible for tax deductions as well as tax exemptions provided that the premium does not exceed 10% of the sum assured.

Disadvantages of ULIPs

While ULIPs offer benefits such as returns on investments and life insurance, they also have some disadvantages. They are:

• Complexity: Multiple charges, fees, and options associated with ULIPs can make it challenging for policyholders to fully understand their policy or investments under it. This lack of transparency can lead to confusion and dissatisfaction.

• Charges and fees: ULIPs often come with various fees, such as premium allocation charges, policy administration charges, fund management charges, and mortality charges. These ULIP charges could potentially eat your returns on investment. These are relatively high, especially in the initial years of the policy, and impact the overall performance of the ULIP.

• Market risks: ULIPs invest in market-based instruments for higher growth. If the market performs poorly, the value of your ULIP may also decrease, resulting in lower returns. It means that the performance of the underlying funds may not always meet your expectations. All investors must be careful while investing in market-linked products.

• Lock-in period: ULIPs have a 5-year lock-in period. It means that until your policy completes 5 years, you cannot make any withdrawals. If this is of no concern, ULIP can be a great choice for investment.

Are ULIPs Boon or Bane? 

Wrapping It Up!

Various advantages and disadvantages are associated with ULIPs. For those who prefer to invest in instruments providing a range of benefits under one roof, ULIPs can prove to be a good option. However, it is recommended that investments and insurance be kept separate as the role played by both is very different.