Secure Your Retirement with Atal Pension Yojana (APY) through LIC Pension Fund Scheme
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is a government-backed pension scheme in India designed to provide financial security after retirement, particularly for those working in the unorganized sector. Unlike previous schemes that didn't guarantee returns, APY offers a guaranteed minimum monthly pension ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 upon reaching the age of 60.
Key Features of APY with LIC Pension Fund Scheme
- Affordable Contributions: The minimum monthly contribution you need to make depends on your age and desired pension amount. For instance, a 25-year-old aiming for a ₹3,000 monthly pension would contribute only ₹347 per month.
- Flexible Investment Options: You have the freedom to choose your contribution frequency – monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually.
- Guaranteed Pension: Unlike other investment plans, APY assures a fixed monthly pension after retirement, providing peace of mind.
- Choice of Pension Amount: You can select your desired pension amount – ₹1,000, ₹2,000, ₹3,000, ₹4,000, or ₹5,000.
- Investment Tenure: The investment period depends on when you join the scheme. 20 years is the minimum contribution period.
- Auto-Debit Convenience: For monthly contributions, APY offers an auto-debit option linked to your bank account, ensuring timely payments and avoiding penalties for insufficient balance.
- Benefits Upon Death: In case of the account holder's death, the spouse becomes eligible for the pension. Additionally, the nominee receives the accumulated pension corpus.
- Tax Benefits: Contributions to APY are tax-deductible under Section 80CCD(1) of the Income Tax Act, with a maximum exemption of ₹1.5 lakh per year.
Eligibility for APY through LIC Pension Fund Scheme
To open an APY account with LIC Pension Fund Scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
- Indian Citizenship: You must be a citizen of India.
- Age Limit: The entry age is 18 years, and the maximum entry age is 40 years.
- Minimum Contribution Period: You must commit to contributing for at least 20 years.
- Aadhaar and Phone Number: Possession of an Aadhaar number and a registered mobile phone number are mandatory.
- Valid Bank Account: You need a valid savings bank account for contributions and pension payouts.
How to Apply for APY with LIC
You can open an APY account by visiting your nearest LIC branch. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Obtain the APY Application Form: The form is available at LIC branches, banks, and online. It's provided in multiple languages for your convenience.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the application form accurately, including your phone number, bank account details, and Aadhaar number.
- Attach Documents: Submit a photocopy of your Aadhaar card along with the completed form.
- Initial Contribution: The initial contribution amount will be debited from your linked bank account upon account opening.
- Acknowledgement and Auto-Debit: The bank will provide you with an acknowledgement number or PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number). Upcoming contributions will be auto-deducted from your registered bank account.
- Confirmation: Upon successful application processing, you'll receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.
Benefits of Choosing APY with LIC Pension Fund Scheme
- Guaranteed Pension: Secure a regular income source after retirement with a guaranteed minimum pension.
- Flexibility: Choose your desired contribution amount and frequency that suits your budget.
- Tax Savings: Reduce your taxable income by claiming tax deductions on your APY contributions.
- Spousal Benefits: In case of the subscriber's death, the spouse receives the pension, ensuring financial security.
- Nominee Benefit: The nominee receives the accumulated pension corpus if the subscriber dies before reaching 60.
- Death Benefit Option: If the subscriber dies prematurely, the spouse has the option to continue the scheme or withdraw the accumulated corpus.
Take charge to secure your financial future.