How the Comparison Works
The calculator uses the same monthly investment for NPS, PPF, and ELSS, compounds annual contributions at the return assumptions you enter, and then adjusts for tax saving and maturity tax where applicable. The highest estimated net take-home is highlighted, but the right choice also depends on risk, lock-in, liquidity, and retirement rules.
Formula
Corpus = annual contribution compounded each year
PPF net = corpus because maturity is treated as tax-free
ELSS net = corpus - LTCG tax above ₹1 lakh gains
NPS = corpus, with 40% marked for mandatory annuity purchaseLock-in and Suitability
PPF suits low-risk, long-horizon savers who can accept a 15-year structure and changing government rates. ELSS suits investors comfortable with equity volatility and a 3-year lock-in. NPS suits retirement-focused savers who are comfortable with regulation-heavy withdrawal rules and annuity purchase at retirement.
Common questions
Which is best: NPS, PPF, or ELSS?
The best option depends on risk tolerance, liquidity needs, tax regime, and retirement goals. ELSS can lead on long-term return assumptions, PPF leads on safety, and NPS is retirement-focused with annuity rules.
Does the new tax regime give 80C tax saving?
Most 80C deductions are not available in the new regime. This calculator shows zero tax saving under the new regime for these inputs.
Why does NPS show an annuity note?
NPS withdrawal rules require at least 40% of the corpus to be used for annuity purchase at retirement under common rules. That makes NPS regulation-heavy compared with PPF and ELSS.
Is PPF maturity tax-free?
PPF is generally treated as exempt-exempt-exempt for individual investors, but rates are reviewed by the government and can change.
How is ELSS maturity tax calculated here?
This calculator follows the requested assumption: LTCG tax at 10% on gains above ₹1 lakh. Verify current tax law before making final decisions.
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Request a calculator →Disclaimer: NPS, PPF, and ELSS calculations are planning estimates. NPS rules are regulation-heavy, PPF rates can change, and ELSS returns are market-linked. Verify current rules before investing.
Last updated: May 2026