Government Schemes Made Simple
Understanding your safest investment options.
TL;DR
Government schemes are backed by the Indian government. Very safe, but often have lock-in periods. PPF and EPF are great for long-term. NPS is for retirement with extra tax benefits. SCSS is for senior citizens. Choose based on your age, goal, and how long you can lock money.
Quick Overview
Public Provident Fund
Best for: Long-term savings + tax saving
Employee Provident Fund
Best for: Salaried employees' retirement
National Pension System
Best for: Retirement + extra ₹50K tax deduction
Senior Citizens Savings Scheme
Best for: Regular income for 60+ age
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
Best for: Savings for girl child
National Savings Certificate
Best for: Medium-term safe saving
How to Choose
Check your goal
Retirement? Tax saving? Girl child's future? Each scheme has a purpose.
Consider lock-in
PPF is 15 years. NPS is till 60. Make sure you won't need the money.
See if you qualify
SCSS is only for 60+. SSY needs a girl child under 10. EPF is for salaried.
Understand the tax angle
Most give 80C benefits. NPS gives extra ₹50K. But check taxability at withdrawal.
Start small
PPF needs minimum ₹500/year. You can always increase later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Opening PPF without understanding the 15-year commitment
- ✕Ignoring EPF (it's free money from employer matching)
- ✕Not claiming the extra ₹50K NPS deduction
- ✕Withdrawing EPF when changing jobs (let it grow)
- ✕Thinking government = low returns (PPF often beats FD post-tax)