With only a few weeks left for the end of the financial year 2025-26, many people suddenly remember that they still have to invest to save tax. If you have not yet invested under Section 80C, then March is the last chance. The good thing is that there are some investment options which can be done online and instantly, so that you can take advantage of tax savings under the old tax system in time. Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, tax exemption up to Rs 1.5 lakh is available. However, this investment will have to be made before March 31. Let us also tell you about five such investment options, in which you can invest quickly and easily.
You can invest in these
- ELSS Mutual Fund: Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is a very popular option to save mutual fund tax. By investing in this scheme, tax benefits are available under section 80C. The lock-in period is only 3 years. Investments can be made completely online and instantly. There is a possibility of getting better returns from the equity market in the long term. If time is short, ELSS is considered the fastest and easiest option.
- Public Provident Fund (PPF): Public Provident Fund is a safe and long-term investment option. It also gives tax benefits under section 80C. The interest rate is decided by the government. Maturity period is 15 years. Deposit can be made through online banking. This option is good for those who want low risk and guaranteed returns.
- Tax-saving fixed deposits: Tax-saving fixed deposits are also a tax-saving option under section 80C. Banks offer fixed interest rates with a lock-in of at least 5 years. Investment can be done through bank net banking or branch banking. However, the interest earned is taxable.
- National Pension System (NPS): National Pension System is an investment option designed for retirement. Tax exemption up to Rs 1.5 lakh is available under Section 80C. Apart from this, an additional exemption of Rs 50,000 is also available under Section 80CCD(1B). Investment can also be done online. This gives you a chance to save up to Rs 2 lakh in total tax.
- Life Insurance Premium: If you have taken life insurance, then tax exemption can be claimed on its premium also under section 80C. Including term plans or traditional insurance plans. Premium payment can be done online. It provides both security and tax saving.
Which is the fastest investment?
If you want to save tax before March 31, experts generally consider ELSS mutual funds to be the fastest option. Because investments can be made online in just a few minutes, and they have the lowest lock-in (3 years) and the potential for better returns in the long run.