New Delhi [India], April 14: Want to save on taxes for your capital gains? Capital gain bonds offer an easy and efficient solution under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act.
If you have recently earned a profit from selling a property or other capital assets, you can invest in these bonds to claim tax exemptions and securely keep your money at low risk.
Capital gain bonds are a secure and tax-efficient investment option that government organisations support. You can purchase capital gain bonds online by logging into authorized issuers such as REC, PFC, and IRFC, registering on our portal, completing the necessary KYC process, and paying through the available options.
Once the transaction is complete, you will receive your e-bond certificate via email. Let us go through the step-by-step procedure for investing in these bonds.
What Are Capital Gain Bonds?
Capital gain bonds are financial products guaranteed by the government, helping investors save on long-term capital gains tax. They are issued by government organizations such as:
- Rural Electrification Corporation (REC)
- Power Finance Corporation (PFC)
- Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC)
They have a lock-in period of five years and a fixed interest rate, making them a safe investment. However, they are not transferable and cannot be used as collateral.
Eligibility Criteria for Investing
Anyone looking to reinvest their capital gains for tax benefits can invest in these bonds, including:
- Individuals (Resident and Non-Resident Indians)
- Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)
- Companies & Other Entities
The maximum investment limit per financial year is ₹50 lakhs.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Buy Capital Gain Bonds Online
Step 1: Select a Bond Issuer
First, make your purchase decision by identifying which organisation’s capital gain bonds you wish to invest in. You can compare interest rates and conditions on the issuers’ websites, such as REC, PFC, and IRFC.
Step 2: Register on the RR Finance Portal
Visit the RR Finance Capital Gain Bonds page and register using your phone number. After registration, you will receive an OTP for verification. Once verified, proceed with your investment by selecting the bond issuer and completing the purchase transaction.
Step 3: Register and Complete KYC
You will need to register using your PAN card and complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) procedure by providing the following documents:
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Details (for payment of interest)
- Address Proof (if necessary)
Some issuers provide an online KYC process that allows you to upload scanned documents, while others may require you to verify them in person.
Step 4: Pay the Amount
After KYC is confirmed, make the payment. Payment methods are:
- Net Banking
- UPI
- NEFT/RTGS
- Demand Draft (in certain situations)
Ensure the payment is made directly to the issuer, not through intermediaries.
Step 5: Get Your Bond Certificate
Once a successful transaction, you will be sent an electronic bond certificate by email. Some issuers also provide the facility to download it from their website. This document represents your investment and must be safely stored for future reference.
Essential Factors to Consider Before Investing
- Lock-in Period: Your money will be locked in for 5 years without any option for premature withdrawal.
- Interest Rate: These bonds offer lower interest rates than other fixed-income investments. The interest earned is taxable.
- Tax Benefits: Only the principal investment is eligible for tax exemption, and interest income is taxed.
- Liquidity Constraints: As they cannot be exchanged in the secondary market or utilised as loan collateral, ensure you won’t require these funds before investing.
Conclusion
Investing in 54EC capital gain bonds is an excellent way to save on long-term capital gains tax while ensuring capital security. After completing the online investment procedure mentioned above, you can purchase these bonds from authentic government institutions.
However, consider your investment goals, lock-in terms, and anticipated interest before deciding. Capital gain bonds are a great option if you are looking for a safe and tax-effective investment.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investments carry risks, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Readers should research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.