Managing Your Finances as a Young Professional

Stick to your repayment schedule to avoid earning a bad credit report 

Repaying Education Loans

Interest paid on education loans qualifies for a tax break under Section 80E of IT Act

Contribution to the employees' provident fund (EPF) qualifies for a deduction under Section 80C up to an overall limit of Rs 1.5 lakh per financial year. 

Maximizing Tax Benefits 

If you live in a rented accommodation, you can claim tax benefits on house rent allowance (HRA) within the specified limits 

Maximizing Tax Benefits 

Clearly defining your financial goals is crucial for effective financial planning, to pursue higher education, pay off loans, build wealth, or plan for the long term 

Defining Financial Goals 

Consider investing in products with no credit risk like National Savings Certificate (NSC) and tax-saving bank fixed deposits offered by nationalized banks  

Options for Lower Income Tax Slabs 

ELSS not only provide a tax break but also offer the potential for higher returns. These investments have a lock-in period of 3 years

Equity-Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) 

Contribute to the Public Provident Fund (PPF) without market risk. PPF offers stable returns and helps in building a corpus for the future

Public Provident Fund (PPF) 

Term life insurance and Health insurance are crucial if you have outstanding loans or dependents.  

Importance of Insurance 

Set aside funds to cover at least six months of expenses in fixed deposits or liquid funds

Building an Emergency Fund