Is Sip Tax Free

Is SIP Tax Free? How to Start SIP To Save Tax

Learn whether SIPs are taxable, how ELSS-based SIPs can help you save tax under Section 80C, and other key rules before starting a tax-saving SIP

Written by : Knowledge Centre Team

2025-11-12

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10 minutes read

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Many investors prefer SIPs because they make investing simple and disciplined. Still, a common doubt remains about whether SIPs can help save tax. SIP investment by itself is not tax-free, but SIPs in ELSS mutual funds qualify for deductions under Section 80C. 

This combination of affordability, flexibility, and tax benefits makes ELSS-based SIPs popular among working professionals and first-time investors. Before starting one, it is important to understand tax rules, lock-in periods, and the process of choosing the right fund. 

Let us help you through this blog to understand how to begin a tax-saving SIP with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways
 

  • Under Section 80C, SIPs in ELSS provide tax benefits, including an annual deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh
  • SIPs create wealth through compounding and rupee-cost averaging
  • Unlike lump sum investments, SIPs distribute investments over time to lower market risk
  • Long-term profits are subject to a 12.5% tax on SIP investments in ELSS, which are taxed separately
  • Growth choices are tax-efficient, but dividends from SIPs are taxed according to the income tax bracket

What is an SIP Investment?

One of the financial tools that mutual funds provide to participants to help them invest in a disciplined way is a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). That is the most effective method for accumulating wealth in a methodical and secure approach. Here, investors are permitted to make fixed-amount investments in their selected mutual fund plan at predetermined intervals.

With an SIP, you spread your investment over a longer time period than you would with a flat payment. ₹500 is the minimum fixed amount. Weekly, monthly, or annual predetermined periods are also possible. Therefore, you don't need a lot of money to start investing in mutual funds using SIPs.

Tax Benefits of SIP Investments

Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) provide tax advantages for investments made in Equity-Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS). The annual deduction up to ₹1.5 lakh for contributions lowers taxable income.

ELSS investments also come with a lock-in period of 3 years, providing both tax savings and potential for long-term capital appreciation. This makes SIPs an attractive option for tax-conscious investors. In addition, there’s an exemption under which long-term capital gains tax is not applicable if the gains are less than ₹1.25 lakh per financial year.

Wealth Creation Through SIP

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a powerful tool for long-term wealth creation, offering investors the benefits of compounding, rupee-cost averaging, and disciplined investing. By investing a fixed amount regularly in mutual funds, SIPs allow investors to accumulate wealth over time without the burden of timing the market.

The power of compounding ensures that even small investments grow exponentially as returns generate further returns.

Additionally, rupee-cost averaging helps mitigate market volatility by purchasing more units when prices are low and fewer units when prices are high. This, in turn, leads to better long-term returns. SIP investments also encourage financial discipline, making them an ideal option for individuals looking to build a significant corpus for goals like retirement, education, or homeownership. 

With the flexibility to start with as little as ₹500 per month, SIPs provide an accessible and structured approach to wealth accumulation.

Comparison of SIP vs One-Time Investment for Tax Saving

When planning ELSS investments, many people also compare SIPs with one-time investments to understand which works better for tax savings. Since tax on SIPs follows the same rules as lump-sum ELSS investments, the decision often comes down to comfort and consistency. The table below will help you understand the difference between SIP and a one-time investment for tax savings:

Criteria

SIP Investments

One-Time Investment

Investment Mode

Regular monthly/quarterly investments over time

Lump sum investment in a single transaction

Tax Benefits

Eligible for benefits of tax under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act

Eligible for benefits of tax under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act

Investment Horizon

Long-term (typically 3+ years for tax-saving mutual funds)

Long-term (typically 3+ years for tax-saving mutual funds)

Investment Flexibility

Flexible, and can increase, decrease, or stop SIP anytime

Fixed but cannot change once invested unless redeeming

Risk Mitigation

Risk is averaged out over time due to rupee cost averaging

Risk is higher if the market is volatile at the time of investment

Amount of Investment

Low; starts with small amounts (as low as ₹500/month)

High; requires a large lump sum amount at once

Market Timing

Reduces risk of market timing through regular investments

Full investment depends on timing; it is more affected by market volatility

Returns

Returns are compounded monthly and can fluctuate based on market conditions

Returns are based on the market performance at the time of investment

Liquidity

Moderate; units can be redeemed anytime, subject to exit load rules

High; can redeem the entire amount at any time

Discipline

Encourages disciplined savings and investment over time

Requires full commitment upfront

Taxation on Redemption

Tax on gains when redeemed; long-term capital gains (LTCG) apply for holding > 1 year

Tax on gains when redeemed; long-term capital gains (LTCG) apply for holding > 1 year

Suitability

Ideal for individuals looking for regular savings and less market exposure

Suitable for individuals with a lump sum amount to invest and a higher risk tolerance

Financial Planning

Helps in better financial planning with disciplined investments

Can be a good choice if the individual has a surplus amount at once

Which is Better?:

  • SIP: Best for investors who want to invest gradually, manage risk, and maintain financial discipline.

  • One-Time Investment: Suitable for those with a lump sum amount who want to maximise tax benefits instantly.

Is SIP Taxable or Not?

Since a large number of SIP investors are first-timers and begin with comparatively smaller amounts, they often stumble on the question of whether SIP income is taxable or tax-free. If an investor invests through SIPs in equity funds or balanced mutual fund schemes, all the gains made after one year will be considered long-term capital gains that will be completely tax-free. For example, an investor invested ₹10 Lakhs and profited ₹20 Lakhs for ten years. Then, the entire redemption amount of ₹30 Lakhs will not be taxable. Instead, the gains for nine years, ₹18 Lakhs, will be taxable. 

Therefore, the best SIP tax benefit is simply that the investor does not need to pay any taxes. So, yes, SIP investments are tax-free, but there are certain limitations. It is extensively explained below.

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Did You Know?

Section 80C tax benefits of up to ₹1.5 lakh are only applicable under the old tax regime and not the new one.


Source: economictimes

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How Does SIP Work?

Each time you invest in a mutual fund scheme through a SIP, you buy a specific number of fund units similar to the sum you invested. You do not have to time the markets while investing through a SIP, as you profit from bullish and bearish market patterns.

When the markets are surging, you purchase fewer fund units, while purchasing more fund units when the market is down. As the Net Asset Value (NAV) of all mutual funds is updated daily, the purchase cost might vary from one instalment to another. With time, the cost of purchase averages out and ends up being on the lower side. This is called rupee cost averaging, and that is how SIP investments work.

Why Should You Invest in SIP?

The SIP concept focuses on the philosophy “Save first, Spend next”. Instead of making a one-time investment, SIP allows you to invest small amounts at fixed intervals. The first-time mutual fund investor may consider starting a SIP. That is ideal for those having a standard type of revenue, like a salary.

You can redirect a part of your salary towards mutual funds by starting a SIP. That assists you with imparting a feeling of monetary control over the long run, as you will be compelled to save a total at particular intervals.

The following are a few additional reasons for making investments in SIP:

  1. You can start investing in mutual funds through SIP with just ₹500. You can increase your monthly SIPs whenever you want.

  2. When you invest through a SIP in the equity market, you will buy fewer units when the market is surging and more units when the market is down.

  3. Rupee cost averaging results when you stagger your investments over an extensive period. This guarantees substantially more returns than a lump-sum investment.

  4. You can stop your SIP at any time. Also, you can redeem your funds at any time, with no lock-in period.

  5. Investing through a SIP will make you disciplined while managing your finances.

Benefits of Compounding:

When you invest routinely through SIP for as long as possible, the advantages are amplified by the compounding effect. The compounding effect guarantees you acquire returns on your principal amount (actual investment). Yet, in addition, gains on the principal amount develop over the long term as the cash you invested earns returns. Furthermore, these returns keep earning more returns.

SIP vs One-time Investment for Tax Saving

Choosing between a systematic investment and a lump sum approach can influence how steadily your money grows and how effectively you manage risk. Both methods can support tax-saving goals, but they work differently in changing market conditions. The following is a comparison of how each approach behaves to help you select a comfortable investment style:
 

SIP InvestmentOne-time Investment
Periodic investmentsA lump sum amount invested through a single transaction
Protects investments from a market crashLeads to more loss during a market crash
Earns more when the market is at a lowEarns high when the market is high 

SIP Tax Benefits

Here are five key benefits of SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) for tax saving, along with an explanation of capital gains tax:

  • Tax Deductions Under Section 80C: SIP investments in ELSS qualify for tax deductions up to ₹1.5 lakh per annum under Section 80C, reducing taxable income and enabling tax savings.

  • Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) Tax Benefit: ELSS investments held for over 1 year attract a 12.5% LTCG tax on gains above ₹1.25 lakh per financial year, without indexation benefits, offering a tax-efficient option for long-term investors.

  • Rupee Cost Averaging: SIPs ensure regular investments regardless of market conditions, helping average out costs by buying more units at lower prices and fewer at higher prices, reducing volatility impact for better long-term returns.

  • Flexible Investment Amount: SIPs allow you to start with as little as ₹500 per month, making it easier to begin early and invest consistently, even with limited disposable income.

  • Compounding Benefits: Regular SIPs grow exponentially over time as both your investment and returns generate further returns, maximizing wealth creation.

Capital Gains Tax Explained

When you redeem your ELSS investment, the profit you earn is treated as capital gains. These gains are taxed based on how long you stayed invested. Here’s an overview of the same:

  • Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): For investments held for less than 1 year, the STCG tax of 20% is applicable on the gains from ELSS funds.
  • Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): For investments held for more than 1 year, LTCG tax is 12.5% on gains exceeding ₹1.25 lakh per financial year.

SIP offers both tax-saving and growth benefits through disciplined, long-term investing.

When is the Right Time to Start Investing in a SIP?

Investing for the long term is a smart decision. Moreover, starting these investments early helps maximise returns. This philosophy is what makes ELSS (equity-linked savings scheme) investments through SIPs one of the best investment options. SIPs come with many tax benefits and have been gaining popularity among Indian mutual fund investors.

It allows an investor to invest in a disciplined manner without worrying about market volatility and timing the market. You can claim a tax rebate of up to ₹1,50,000 and save up to ₹46,800 a year in SIP. It is recommended for investors who are investing in mutual funds for the first time.

It is advisable to be clear about your financial goals while choosing your SIP scheme so that, along with your SIP income tax benefits, you can achieve your desired returns.

Regardless of age, this is the ideal time to begin your SIP. The more substantial your wealth building might be, the earlier you start. For financial discipline and the advantages of Rupee Cost Averaging, think about starting your SIP at the beginning of each month. Ensure you get a steady enough income to invest comfortably in an SIP.

Furthermore, there are great chances to begin your investment path when you receive a lump sum payment or celebrate a particular anniversary. Finally, setting specific financial objectives will help to motivate and guide your SIP. It's important to remember that starting now will put you on the correct track towards reaching your financial goals.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when starting SIP investment:

  1. Start Early: Regardless of age, the best time to begin your SIP is now. The earlier you start, the more substantial your wealth building might be
  2. Time Advantage: SIP investments benefit from the power of compounding. The longer your investment horizon, the greater your potential returns
  3. Financial Discipline: Consider starting your SIP at the beginning of each month to instill financial discipline
  4. Steady Income: Ensure you have a steady enough income to comfortably contribute to your SIP regularly
  5. Special Occasions: Utilise lump sum payments or special occasions, like anniversaries, to kick start or boost your SIP investments
  6. Financial Goals: Setting specific financial objectives will guide and motivate your SIP journey
  7. Act Now: Starting now puts you on the right track towards achieving your financial goals through systematic investing

Final Words

Systematic Investment Plans have become a popular choice for long-term wealth creation and tax savings. They offer the advantage of rupee-cost averaging, disciplined investing, and flexibility in monthly/quarterly contributions. While SIPs are not entirely tax-free, they can provide significant tax benefits through Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. 

SIPs in ELSS allow investors to claim a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh per year, potentially saving them substantial taxes depending on their income tax slab. Additionally, SIPs promote early tax planning, which is essential for maximising tax savings and wealth creation. By incorporating SIPs into your financial strategy, you can not only boost your investment returns but also benefit from tax savings, making them a valuable tool for long-term financial planning.

Glossary

  1. Mutual Funds: A mutual fund pools contributions from many participants to invest in securities like stocks, bonds, and debt
  2. Market Volatility: Daily stock market fluctuations encompass significant and minor changes
  3. Bullish and Bearish Market: A bull market is marked by rising prices, while a bear market sees falling prices and contraction
  4. Rupee Cost Averaging: RCA involves regular, fixed-amount investments regardless of market conditions, akin to a SIP
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FAQs

Gains from SIPs that are redeemed in less than a year are subject to a 20% flat tax rate, plus a cess and fee. The same 20% tax rate applies to these gains regardless of your income tax level.

Yes, for SIP tax purposes, every instalment of the SIP is regarded as a separate investment with a unique holding period. Many investors wonder SIP comes under which section. SIP is classified as an Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) under the EEE (Exempt, Exempt, Exempt) category.

Both SIP and lump-sum investments offer tax benefits, but the specifics depend on the type of mutual fund and the investor's tax bracket. For SIPs, the investment is spread over time, which reduces the impact of market fluctuations and allows for a more consistent return. This can result in lower tax liabilities due to the lower average cost of the investments. Lump-sum investments, on the other hand, can also provide tax benefits if the investor invests in tax-efficient funds, such as debt funds.

Although investments made in Equity Linked Saving Scheme (ELSS) mutual funds are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, the SIP itself is not tax-free. Deductions are allowed up to ₹1.5 lakh per year. 

Under Section 80C, each SIP instalment that is made is eligible for a tax deduction. One of the best SIP investment tax benefits is that you can save up to ₹46,800 in taxes annually and receive a tax refund of up to ₹1,50,000.

A strategic approach is necessary when investing for the long term, and in the current Indian financial environment, a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) designed with a 20-year horizon is a wise decision. For individuals wishing to build money over time, investing in the best SIP plans for 20 Years in India can be an excellent decision.Do I have to pay tax on my SIP after 5 or 10 years?

If your SIP is in equity funds, gains after 5 and 10 years are taxed as long-term capital gains (LTCG) at 12.5% if your total profit crosses ₹1.25 lakh in a financial year. In fact, under the current capital gains law, LTCG is applicable only after one year.

 

No, the entire maturity amount of SIP is not tax-free. Only the invested amount is tax-free, and the profit is taxed based on whether it is short-term or long-term.

Yes, if each SIP instalment has completed one year in equity funds, then tax on SIP after 15 years will be applicable.

Yes, long-term gains above ₹1.25 lakh per financial year are taxed at 12.5% on SIPs even after 20 years.

Yes, online financial tools like an SIP tax calculator show how much tax you may need to pay on your SIP gains at the time of redemption.

Disclaimer - This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited or any affiliated entity. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the blog or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the blog for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. You should consult with a qualified professional regarding your specific circumstances before taking any action based on the content provided herein.

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