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EPF vs PPF vs NPS: Which retirement investment works best for you?

Three key retirement options
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Three key retirement options
EPF, PPF and NPS are India’s most popular long-term retirement savings schemes, each offering different levels of returns, risk and flexibility.
Returns and risk level differ
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Returns and risk level differ
EPF and PPF offer fixed low-risk returns, while NPS delivers potentially higher returns because it is linked to market performance.
Lock-in and withdrawal rules
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Lock-in and withdrawal rules
PPF has a 15-year lock-in, EPF is usually locked till retirement with limited early withdrawals, and NPS is locked till age 60 with partial withdrawal rules.
Tax benefits comparison
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Tax benefits comparison
EPF and PPF enjoy full EEE tax benefits, while NPS provides an extra Rs 50,000 deduction under Section 80CCD(1B) in addition to Section 80C.
Which one should you choose
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Which one should you choose
PPF suits risk-averse investors, EPF can be better suited for salaried employees, and NPS is a good option for long-term investors seeking higher growth; a mix of all three builds a balanced retirement plan.
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