ELSS Calculator

Calculate returns on Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) investments in India. ELSS funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C while providing equity market returns with a mandatory 3-year lock-in period.

Return Expectations

Investment Summary

Investment Amount: ?0
Maturity Value: ?0
Total Returns: ?0

Tax Benefits

Tax Savings (80C): ?0
Effective Cost: ?0
Post-Tax Returns: ?0

Performance Analysis

Annualized Return: 0.00%
CAGR: 0.00%
Risk-Adjusted Return: N/A

Understanding ELSS Investments

Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is a type of mutual fund in India that offers tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. ELSS funds invest primarily in equities and must maintain a lock-in period of 3 years, making them an attractive option for tax-saving investments with growth potential.

ELSS Key Features

Tax Benefits

  • Deduction under Section 80C (up to ?1.5 lakh)
  • Long-term capital gains tax exemption
  • No TDS on dividends
  • Indexation benefits on long-term gains

Investment Features

  • Mandatory 3-year lock-in period
  • Minimum investment: ?500
  • Equity-oriented (65% in equities)
  • Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) available

ELSS vs Other Tax-Saving Options

Feature ELSS PPF NSC Tax Saving FD
Lock-in Period 3 years 15 years 5 years 5 years
Expected Returns 12-15% 7-8% 6-7% 5-6%
Risk Level High Low Low Low
Liquidity After 3 years Limited After 5 years After 5 years

ELSS Investment Strategies

Lump Sum Investment:

  • Invest entire amount at once
  • Suitable for bonus or windfall gains
  • Rupee-cost averaging not applicable
  • Timing of market entry important

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP):

  • Regular monthly investments
  • Rupee-cost averaging benefits
  • Disciplined investment approach
  • Reduces timing risk

ELSS Categories

Multi-Asset ELSS

Diversified across equity, debt, and gold

Lower volatility

Large-Cap ELSS

Invests in large, established companies

Stable returns

Mid/Small-Cap ELSS

Focuses on growing companies

Higher growth potential

Tax Implications

ELSS Taxation Rules

Short-term Capital Gains (STCG):
  • 15% tax on gains
  • Applicable if redeemed within 3 years
  • Plus 4% cess
  • Not applicable for ELSS (lock-in)
Long-term Capital Gains (LTCG):
  • No tax on gains up to ?1 lakh
  • 10% tax on gains above ?1 lakh
  • Plus 4% cess
  • Indexation benefits available
Dividend Taxation:
  • No TDS on dividends
  • Taxed in investor's hands
  • Based on individual's tax slab
  • No indexation for dividends
Section 80C Benefits:
  • Deduction up to ?1.5 lakh
  • Available for investments
  • Reduces taxable income
  • Part of overall 80C limit

Risks and Considerations

Market Risks:

  • Equity market volatility
  • Potential for losses
  • Economic downturns
  • Interest rate changes

Liquidity Risks:

  • 3-year lock-in period
  • Cannot access funds early
  • Emergency fund planning needed
  • Opportunity cost of locked money

Key Takeaways for ELSS Investments

  • ELSS offers tax benefits under Section 80C with equity market returns
  • Mandatory 3-year lock-in period ensures long-term investment discipline
  • Suitable for investors seeking tax-saving options with growth potential
  • SIP investments help reduce market timing risks through rupee-cost averaging
  • LTCG tax benefits make ELSS attractive for long-term wealth creation
  • Consider your risk tolerance and investment horizon before investing
  • Diversify across different ELSS funds to spread risk
  • Regular review and portfolio rebalancing is essential for optimal returns

Related Calculators