Investors in India need to be aware of the stamp duty on mutual fund transactions. Introduced on 1st July 2020, this duty is levied on the purchase of mutual fund units. The rate is 0.005% for purchases and 0.015% for unit transfers between Demat accounts.
Understanding Stamp Duty in Mutual Funds
Stamp duty on mutual fund investments is a one-time charge levied on the purchase of mutual fund units. This includes lump sum investments, SIPs, STPs, and dividend reinvestment transactions. The duty applies to both physical and Demat holdings, ensuring uniformity in taxation.
The mutual fund stamp duty rate is 0.005% for purchasing units. For transfers between Demat accounts, the applicable rate is 0.015%. The charge is deducted before unit allocation, meaning the net investment amount is slightly lower than the actual invested sum.
For instance, if an investor puts ₹1,00,000 into a mutual fund, the applicable stamp duty on mutual fund transactions would be ₹5 (0.005%). Consequently, ₹99,995 would be available for unit allocation, ensuring transparency in deductions.
This duty does not apply to redemptions or switch-outs, as it is only levied on fresh unit issuance. Understanding the implications helps investors make informed decisions while planning their mutual fund stamp duty costs.
Applicability of Stamp Duty on Mutual Fund Transactions
Applicable Transactions
Lump sum investments in mutual funds (equity and debt)
SIPs, STPs, and dividend reinvestment transactions
Switch-ins within the same scheme (growth to dividend plan and vice versa)
Transfers between Demat accounts (at 0.015% rate)
Non-Applicable Transactions
Redemption of mutual fund units
Switch-outs and STP withdrawals
Dividend pay-outs to investors
Transfers from broker accounts to investor accounts
Impact on Investors
Reduces the net investment amount marginally
Minimal effect on long-term investors
Higher impact on short-term liquid fund investors
Automatically deducted, ensuring compliance
How is Stamp Duty Calculated on Mutual Fund Purchases?
Stamp duty is calculated on the gross investment amount before unit allocation. The calculation process ensures transparency and fair deductions.
For example:
Investment Amount: ₹1,00,000
Applicable Stamp Duty (0.005%): ₹5
Net Investment Amount: ₹99,995
NAV (Assumed): ₹100
Units Allocated: ₹99,995 ÷ ₹100 = 999.95 units
Key Considerations:
The stamp duty on mutual fund transactions applies to SIPs, STPs, and lump sum investments.
For dividend reinvestment, stamp duty is deducted on the dividend amount before reinvestment.
Transfers between Demat accounts incur a mutual fund stamp duty of 0.015%.
Impact of Stamp Duty on Investment Returns
Stamp duty marginally reduces the invested amount, which affects overall returns. The impact decreases as the investment period increases.
Investment Period
| Net Investment Amount (₹)
| Stamp Duty (₹)
| Assumed Return @ 4%
| Capital Gain (₹)
| Effective Return (%)
|
10 Days
| 99,900
| 4.99
| 109.47
| 104.47
| 3.82%
|
30 Days
| 99,900
| 4.99
| 328.42
| 323.42
| 3.94%
|
Longer investment horizons reduce the impact of stamp duty on mutual fund investments. Investors with short-term holdings, especially in liquid funds, may see a slightly higher effect.
Exemptions: Transactions Not Subject to Stamp Duty
While mutual fund stamp duty is applicable on purchases, certain transactions are exempt. Understanding these exemptions helps investors optimise their strategy.
Exempt Transactions:
Redemption of mutual fund units
STP switch-outs and dividend pay-outs
Transfers from broker accounts to investor accounts
Conversion of physical units to Demat holdings
Scenarios Where Stamp Duty is Not Charged:
If an investor redeems units from an existing mutual fund, no stamp duty on mutual fund transactions is levied.
When switching out from one fund to another (outside the same scheme), the duty is not applicable.
Transfers from a brokerage account to an investor’s Demat account do not attract mutual fund stamp duty.
Conclusion
The stamp duty on mutual fund investments is a regulatory charge applicable to all new unit purchases. While the impact is minimal, it is essential for investors to account for this cost in their financial planning.
Long-term investments in mutual funds are less affected by mutual fund stamp duty, making them a viable option despite the minor deductions. Understanding these charges ensures a well-informed investment approach.