Section 80C Deductions: Complete List to Save ₹1.5 Lakh Tax
Comprehensive guide to all Section 80C investments and deductions
- Maximum deduction: Rs 1.5 lakh under Section 80C (old tax regime only)
- Best for growth: ELSS mutual funds - 3-year lock-in, market-linked returns
- Best for safety: PPF - 15-year lock-in, 7.1% guaranteed, fully tax-free
- Bonus: NPS gets additional Rs 50,000 deduction under Section 80CCD(1B)
Save Up to Rs 46,800 in Taxes
Section 80C: Overview
Section 80C allows a maximum deduction of ₹1,50,000 from your taxable income in the old tax regime. This single section covers multiple investment options and expenses.
The deduction is available only under the old tax regime. The new tax regime does not allow Section 80C deductions in exchange for lower tax rates.
Complete List of 80C Investments
All these investments qualify for Section 80C deduction, with a combined maximum limit of ₹1.5 lakh
ELSS Mutual Funds
Equity Linked Savings Scheme
PPF (Public Provident Fund)
Government-backed savings
Life Insurance Premium
Term/Endowment/ULIP
NSC
National Savings Certificate
Tax Saver FD
5-year Fixed Deposit
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
For girl child under 10
Home Loan Principal
EMI principal component
Children's Tuition Fees
Full-time education
Quick Comparison: Which is Best for You?
Choose based on your financial goals, risk appetite, and liquidity needs
| Investment | Best For | Liquidity | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
ELSS | High returns seekers, young investors | 3 years | High |
PPF | Safe, long-term retirement planning | 15 years | Zero |
Life Insurance | Family protection + tax savings | Policy term | Low-Med |
NSC | Fixed returns, safety-conscious investors | 5 years | Zero |
Tax Saver FD | Conservative, guaranteed returns | 5 years | Low |
Sukanya Samriddhi | Parents of girl child, best returns | Until age 21 | Zero |
Pro Tip
Important Points to Remember
- Section 80C deductions are available ONLY under the old tax regime
- Maximum combined limit of ₹1.5 lakh for 80C + 80CCC + 80CCD(1)
- Additional ₹50,000 deduction available under 80CCD(1B) exclusively for NPS
- Keep all investment proofs ready for tax filing
- Choose investments based on your financial goals, not just tax savings
Related Calculators
Section 80C Deductions
Track all 80C deductions with NPS additional ₹50K benefit under 80CCD(1B)
Income Tax Calculator
Compare old vs new tax regime and calculate your income tax liability
PPF Calculator
Calculate PPF maturity with EEE status (7.1% p.a., ₹500-₹1.5L/year, 15 years)
ELSS vs 80C Options
Compare ELSS, PPF, Tax Saver FD under Section 80C with post-tax returns