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SCSS vs SSY vs SBI FD vs PPF: Returns, lock-in, tax benefits, and who should invest

SCSS vs SSY vs SBI FD vs PPF comparison highlights interest rates, lock-in periods, tax benefits and suitability, helping investors in the nation choose stable, low-risk savings options in uncertain markets.

27 Apr 2026 5:31 pm
Sold your new house too soon? Heres what happens to your Section 54 exemption

Experts explain the tax impact of selling a reinvested house within three years and whether NRIs can claim India-UAE DTAA relief without a current-year TRC.

27 Apr 2026 5:13 pm
EPF calculator: 5,000 monthly investment can grow to 80 lakh in 30 yearsreal value explained

EPF contributions accumulate interest annually at 8.25%, combining employee and employer inputs. A consistent monthly contribution can yield substantial returns over 30 years. Here's all you need to know. 

27 Apr 2026 4:21 pm
The trilemma of insurance: Working the Impossible Trinity of Insurer, Hospital and customer

The insurer that trusts good hospitals retains them. The hospital that bills responsibly earns faster approvals. The customer who engages honestly pays lower premiums.

27 Apr 2026 3:34 pm
ITR filing FY 202526: Important income tax return deadlines and dates for salaried, business and audit filers

Check out ITR Filing 2026 deadlines for FY 202526 and AY 202627, covering key income tax return due dates, revised filing timelines, belated return provisions and essential compliance updates for all taxpayer categories in the country.

27 Apr 2026 2:30 pm
Reported wrong income in your ITR? Heres how you can avoid up to 200% penalty

Incorrect income reporting can lead to penalties under the Income Tax Act, 2025 with fines up to 200%. Taxpayers can avoid such steep penalties by voluntarily disclosing errors and paying required taxes. Details here. 

27 Apr 2026 2:03 pm
Why is Aadhaar not considered as a date of birth proof? UIDAI explains

It is up to the Aadhaar user to determine their own view on the use of Aadhaar for purposes relating to establishing the date of birth.

27 Apr 2026 1:28 pm
NPS Vatsalya vs Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: What to choose for your children? Eligibility, returns, tax benefits explained

Parents can choose from government-backed savings options like NPS Vatsalya and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for their children. Sukanya is for girls only, offering fixed returns, while NPS Vatsalya is market-linked. Details of each scheme here.

27 Apr 2026 12:43 pm
Did Nirmala Sitharaman promote a platform promising 30 lakh monthly returns? Heres the truth

The video, identified as AI-generated, falsely asserts an initial deposit of 22,000 can yield 30 lakh per month. Citizens are advised to verify information through official sources.

27 Apr 2026 12:41 pm
8th Pay Commission latest: Minimum pay demands, fitment factor and complete FAQs guide

8th Pay Commission (8th CPC) is in an active consultation phase as of April 2026, reviewing demands from BPMS, PSNM & NC-JCM and other stakeholders. With the final decision on salary & pension awaited. Stakeholder meetings are ongoing across India before the Commission submits its final report. 

27 Apr 2026 12:24 pm
I asked ChatGPT how to pay off 25-Year home loan in 15 years: Check personal finance advice from AI

ChatGPT advises a Bengaluru couple to increase their home loan EMI and make annual prepayments to close their loan early. Check the complete set of suggestions. 

27 Apr 2026 12:15 pm
Autumn in Korea on 2.75 lakh: How this Bengaluru couple planned a 12-day K-drama getaway

By timing autumn foliage, choosing public transport over taxis and balancing splurges with savings, this Bengaluru couple explored Seoul, Busan and Gyeongju in 12 days for 2.75 lakh.

27 Apr 2026 10:12 am
US shifts $1.7T student loan system to Treasury what it means for borrowers in default

While only Congress can formally dismantle the department, the administration is pursuing incremental changes through inter-agency agreements.

27 Apr 2026 2:07 am
NRIs selling property in India may have to pay higher taxes: All you need to know

NRIs reportedly face higher tax implications when selling property in India due to revised capital gains tax rules and increased TDS rates. Proper planning, understanding exemptions, and compliance with regulations are essential to minimise tax liabilities and ensure smooth transactions.

26 Apr 2026 9:42 pm
What is minimum due on credit card and can not paying full amount affect your credit score?

The minimum payment is usually about 5% of your total outstanding bill. This is the minimum amount you must pay each month on a credit card.

26 Apr 2026 8:44 pm
Planning to redeem your mutual funds? Know how FIFO method affects capital gains tax, how it is calculated

Investing in equity mutual funds is popular for long-term wealth. When redeeming, capital gains tax may apply based on profits and holding periods. The FIFO method determines which units are sold first, impacting tax calculations for short-term and long-term capital gains.

26 Apr 2026 8:32 pm
8th Central Pay Commission schedules meetings with unions, associations from 28-30 April 2026 in Delhi What we know

8th Pay Commission says it is scheduling maximum meetings with Unions and Associations between 28 to 30 April in Delhi and will hold more meetings in the national capital and in other states in due course.

26 Apr 2026 7:48 pm
How high should your credit score be to secure the best home loan deal?

The score, which usually ranges from 300 to 900 points, tests ones capability to pay debts. The significance of a credit score is that it indicates just how creditworthy an individual is.

26 Apr 2026 7:26 pm
New ITR-4 form introduces mandatory investment disclosure for presumptive taxpayers: Here's how to file step-by-step

To file ITR-4 for AY 2026-27, visit the Income Tax e-Filing Portal, verify details, enter income and deductions, validate the form, and submit using Aadhaar OTP or EVC. Eligibility includes earning under 50 lakh from business, with specific conditions for freelancers and property owners.

26 Apr 2026 7:04 pm
8th Pay Commission: Teachers' body demands 50,000 basic pay, higher HRA, annual increments, old pension schemeDetails

PSNM demands a minimum basic pay of 50,000 for Level 1 employees and 1,34,500 for Level 6 teachers in the 8th Pay Commission. Key demands include higher HRA, annual increments, merging basic pay with DA, and restoring the Old Pension Scheme.

26 Apr 2026 6:54 pm
Will govt employees be paid DA, DR arrears for Covid times ahead of 8th Pay Commission? What we know

Central government employees and pensioners await DA and DR arrears from the COVID-19 period. The Finance Ministry confirmed in 2020 that these payments cannot be released, despite ongoing demands. A recent increase of 2% in DA and DR has been approved, effective January 1, 2026.

26 Apr 2026 5:50 pm
DA hike: How much monthly increase in salary does each employee level get from 2% jump in dearness allowance?

The Ministry of Finance said Dearness Allowance (DA) payable to central government employees shall be increased from 58% to 60% of Basic Pay, with effect from 1 January 2026. Here's how much that impacts the monthly income

26 Apr 2026 5:34 pm
Income-Tax returns: Taxpayers get rebate under Section 87A Check here for eligibility, limit and rules, explained

Rebate under Section 87A reduces tax for low to middle-income earners, with different income limits applicable under the old tax regime and the new regime. Check details for eligibility, limits and rules here

26 Apr 2026 4:35 pm
Switching health insurers? Heres how to keep your waiting period benefits

From porting health insurance without losing waiting period credits to increasing term cover as income rises, heres what policyholders need to know before making a move.

26 Apr 2026 4:01 pm
WFH employee moves to Manali, reveals monthly expenses to enjoy snow, free WiFi, homecooked food

A 23-year-old marketing strategist shared her monthly expenditure in Old Manali. She divided it into non-negotiable and discretionary expenses, giving a reality check of life in the mountains.

26 Apr 2026 3:46 pm
5 common credit card mistakes you should avoid

Credit cards are essential for daily expenses, aiding travel with convenience and rewards. However, misuse can lead to debt and low credit score. Here are 5 common credit card mistakes one should avoid at any cost.

26 Apr 2026 3:18 pm
I asked ChatGPT how to spend my first 50,000 salary: Check how AI gave Gen Z structured personal finance advice

I told ChatGPT: Im Gen Z, fresh into my first job in Bengaluru after moving away from home. My first salary is 50,000. So, how to spend it? Here's the AI response. 

26 Apr 2026 2:22 pm
Income-Tax returns: How senior citizens can save tax through benefits and exemptions while filing ITR, explained

Indian I-T rules allow senior citizens some relief in taxes through deductions, exemptions and compliance activities, that they can use to reduce liability. Here's a look at what's available, which tax regime to choose and how investment planning can help finances and taxes.

26 Apr 2026 2:18 pm
Market volatility: Why instinct alone is not enough in market decision-making

Equities fall 10 to 20% in almost every calendar year. And yet, over the last 46 years, 37 of those years have still closed positive. Over any rolling 7-year period in Indian equity markets, there have been zero instances of negative returns.

26 Apr 2026 10:53 am
8,500 crore inflows in a month: Why multi-asset allocation is winning big in FY26

The investor who started a SIP into a multi-asset fund two years ago didn't need to predict interest rates or time gold's rally or call the bottom on small-caps. The fund did the navigating.

26 Apr 2026 9:37 am
Growth vs dividend option in equity mutual funds explained: Which one should you choose?

While growth allows you to reap the benefits of compounding, the dividend option, which is now called IDCW (Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal) provides you with regular income.

26 Apr 2026 9:34 am
Nothing ever happens. Thats why most traders lose

An open-source bot that blindly bets No on every prediction is quietly outperforming most traders. The lesson for F&O punters and active investors is deeply uncomfortable.

26 Apr 2026 7:24 am
Market slump hits SIP returns. Time to worry or stay put?

As markets slide and short-term SIP returns turn negative, should investors hit pause or let rupee cost averaging do its job?

26 Apr 2026 7:00 am
ITR Deadlines: A complete guide to filing, penalties, and correction windows

The Income Tax Department has notified ITR forms for AY 2026-27. Taxpayers can file belated, revised, or updated returns. Key deadlines for advance tax and TDS payments are crucial for compliance to avoid penalties and interest.

25 Apr 2026 10:44 pm
Are car lease and driver salary component in your CTC taxable? All you need to know

Car leases and driver salaries can provide tax-efficient salary structures for employees. Tax regulations allow these perks to be taxed at lower values, according to experts.

25 Apr 2026 5:23 pm
RBI proposes new digital wallet rules here's how it plans to increase security, ease refunds, among others

The RBI is revising the framework for Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) to enhance security, improve customer protection, and support long-term growth. All proposed measures explained here.

25 Apr 2026 2:19 pm
50,000 is enough for Europe! Greece, Portugal and 3 other beautiful destinations you can actually afford

Europe offers diverse travel experiences, but budget-friendly destinations like Romania, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Greece allow for affordable trips

25 Apr 2026 1:33 pm
Even in heavy debt, these savings remain protected from creditors | What the law says

Loans can lead to debt, but Indian law protects certain savings like EPF, PPF, and NPS from creditors. These funds ensure long-term financial security during financial distress, safeguarding families from losing their assets.

25 Apr 2026 1:13 pm
HRA exemption rules: Income Tax Department explains how rent, salary, and city determine tax savings

The Income Tax Department clarified that claiming HRA exemption does not guarantee significant tax savings. Benefits depend on rent paid, salary structure, and city type, with specific conditions for claiming exemptions. Details here.

25 Apr 2026 12:39 pm
Hidden room rent clause in health insurance can cost you thousands | Expert explains

A minor room upgrade during hospitalisation can result in thousands in deductions for related, non-room expenses

25 Apr 2026 11:42 am
Zero income tax nations: Dubai, Monaco, Bahamas and more on the list

Countries like Dubai and Qatar do not impose personal income taxes, instead generating revenue through VAT and other fees. This model allows them to maintain tax-friendly environments while still funding government services.

25 Apr 2026 8:36 am
5% annual increase in SIP can boost your retirement corpus by more than 83 lakh. Here's how

With a step-up SIP, an investor can increase their SIP amount annually as their annual income grows and accumulate a higher retirement corpus compared to a regular SIP.

25 Apr 2026 7:03 am
RBI revokes Paytm Payments Bank licence: But what happens to your Paytm Wallet, UPI, and account now?

The RBI cancelled Paytm Payments Bank's license for non-compliance, stating it harmed depositors' interests. The central bank assured users their funds are safe and the Paytm app will continue normal operations.

25 Apr 2026 6:33 am
Investing after 45: 5 smart ways to balance safety, growth and retirement planning

Investing at 45 demands a smart balance between safety and growth, combining equities, insurance, and disciplined asset allocation to beat inflation and secure a stable, comfortable retirement future.

24 Apr 2026 6:34 pm
Physical gold vs gold ETF vs SGB vs digital gold: How tax differs across yellow metal investment modes in India

Gold investments in India include physical gold, ETFs, SGBs, and digital gold, each differing in taxation and structure. Here's how each asset is taxed in India. 

24 Apr 2026 5:59 pm
Why health insurance claims get rejected and what CSR really means: Top insurers ranked by claim settlement ratio

Health insurance in India plays a crucial role in financial protection, as rising health care costs and the risk of claim rejections make clarity on coverage, exclusions, and the claim settlement ratio essential for better decision-making. 

24 Apr 2026 5:10 pm
EPF pension claims: Bombay High Court rules employees can't be penalised for employer lapses, sets aside rejection

The Bombay High Court on 18 April addressed petitions against pension rejection under the Employees Pension Scheme, ruling that employees should not be penalised for employers' lapses. Full details here. 

24 Apr 2026 3:31 pm
How credit card inactivity affects your credit score and why regular usage supports a strong credit profile

Stop ignoring your credit card; credit score health depends on activity, not inactivity. This article explains how credit card usage habits shape credit score, credit utilisation and long-term financial stability. 

24 Apr 2026 1:34 pm
Quietly moving away from physical gold: ClearTax's Archit Gupta explains how Indians are changing how they invest

This Akshaya Tritiya, gold purchases in India reached 20,000 crore, but physical sales weakened, according to ClearTax's chief executive. Many transactions were made through old gold exchanges, and digital and ETF investments increased.

24 Apr 2026 1:24 pm
NPS withdrawal options explained: Lump sum, annuity and phased withdrawal choices

The National Pension System (NPS) enables individuals to save for retirement with flexible withdrawal options. Recent rules enhance flexibility for both government and corporate employees, allowing different withdrawal percentages.

24 Apr 2026 12:52 pm