Key features of ELSS

With the tax-saving season having begun, many people are thinking of investing in equity-linked saving schemes (ELSS), where they can get equity-like returns along with the benefit of tax saving.

Here is a look at some of the key characteristics and benefits of ELSS:

Benefit of tax saving: Tax Benefit under section 80c of the Income Tax Act can be availed through ELSS upto Rs 1.5 lakh per year by either SIP or Lumsum

Shortest lock-in period: ELSS has the lowest lock-in period of 3 years as compared to other investment avenues.

Discipline savings & potential of high returns: Besides giving tax benefits, ELSS also leads to ‘forced savings’ because of the lock-in. This allows investors to earn market-based benefits over a longer period of time. Returns are more likely to beat the inflation unlike some of the other tax-saving schemes.

No minimum and maximum investments limit: ELSS funds have a lower threshold of Rs 500. Even a one-time investment of Rs 500 can be held till perpetuity. There is also no maximum limit specified for investing in ELSS. However, the tax savings are available on a maximum of Rs 1.5 lakh per year.

In a nutshell, for wealth enhancement and savings for tax exemptions, ELSS could be a preferred choice.