What Are Investment Plans? Types & Tax Benefits

Investment plans are financial products designed to help individuals grow wealth, achieve long-term goals, and secure financial stability. In India, many investment plans are offered by life insurance companies, combining investment with insurance protection.

These plans are suitable for goals such as retirement planning, children’s education, wealth creation, and tax saving.


Types of Insurance-Based Investment Plans

Insurance companies in India offer multiple investment-oriented plans:

1. ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans)

Combine market-linked investments with life cover.

2. Endowment Plans

Provide guaranteed returns along with life insurance protection.

3. Money Back Plans

Offer periodic payouts during the policy term.

4. Pension & Retirement Plans

Help build a retirement corpus with regular income post-retirement.

5. Child Investment Plans

Designed to secure children’s future education and milestones.


Number of Insurance Companies Offering Investment Plans in India

As regulated by IRDAI, investment plans are offered by 24+ life insurance companies in India, including:

Public Sector

  • Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)

Private Life Insurance Companies

  • HDFC Life
  • ICICI Prudential Life
  • SBI Life
  • Max Life
  • Tata AIA Life
  • Bajaj Allianz Life
  • PNB MetLife
  • Aditya Birla Sun Life

Each insurer offers customized investment plans with varying risk and return profiles.


Tax Benefits of Investment Plans in India

Insurance-based investment plans offer significant tax advantages under the Income Tax Act, 1961.

1. Tax Deduction Under Section 80C

  • Premiums paid are eligible for deduction up to ₹1.5 lakh per year
  • Applicable for self, spouse, and children

2. Tax Exemption Under Section 10(10D)

  • Maturity amount and death benefit are generally tax-free
  • Subject to premium-to-sum-assured conditions

3. Additional ULIP Benefits

  • Long-term capital gains taxation applies based on prevailing tax laws

Why Investment Plans Are Important

  • Encourage disciplined long-term savings
  • Help achieve life goals with insurance protection
  • Offer tax efficiency
  • Provide financial security to family
  • Suitable for risk-averse and moderate investors

How to Choose the Right Investment Plan

  • Define financial goals and time horizon
  • Understand risk appetite
  • Compare returns, charges, and lock-in periods
  • Check insurer’s claim settlement ratio
  • Review policy flexibility and exit options

Conclusion

Investment plans offered by insurance companies help combine wealth creation, life protection, and tax savings in one product. With multiple insurers offering diversified plans and attractive tax benefits, investment plans are a key component of smart financial planning.

At Saving Mantra, we help you compare investment plans and choose the right solution aligned with your financial goals.


Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Investment returns are subject to market risks and policy terms. Tax benefits are subject to changes in income tax laws. Readers are advised to consult a qualified financial advisor before investing.