What is an ELSS?
An Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is a type of mutual fund that allows investors to claim tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Unlike other tax-saving instruments, ELSS offers the advantage of equity exposure, making it suitable for investors with a moderate to high risk appetite. Key features include:
- Equity-focused investment – A minimum of 80% of the fund’s corpus is invested in equity or equity-related securities.
- Three-year lock-in period – The shortest among all tax-saving investments.
- Potential for higher returns – Being market-linked, ELSS has the potential to generate superior returns over the long term.
- Flexibility in investment – Investors can choose between lump sum and Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) modes.
How does ELSS work?
ELSS functions like any other mutual fund but with a mandatory three-year lock-in period. Investors can benefit from:
- Diversified equity investment – ELSS funds invest across various sectors and market capitalisations, reducing risk through diversification.
- Compounding effect – Long-term investment in equities allows wealth accumulation through the power of compounding.
- Tax efficiency – Gains above ₹1 lakh are taxed at 10% as Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG), ensuring favourable taxation.
- Redemption flexibility – While funds can only be withdrawn after three years, investors can continue holding them for greater wealth accumulation.
With its blend of tax benefits and growth potential, ELSS is an attractive option for investors looking to grow their wealth while reducing their tax liability.
What are the Features of ELSS?
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is a tax-saving mutual fund that primarily invests in equities. It offers significant benefits to investors looking to build wealth while enjoying tax deductions. Below are its key features:
- Tax Benefits - Investments in ELSS qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, allowing investors to claim deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year.
- Lock-in Period - ELSS funds have a mandatory lock-in period of three years, which is the shortest among tax-saving investment options. This restriction ensures disciplined investing while providing the potential for higher returns.
- Equity Exposure - A majority of the fund's corpus is invested in equity and equity-related instruments, making it a high-risk, high-reward investment.
- Potential for Higher Returns - ELSS offers equity market exposure, which differs from traditional tax-saving options like fixed deposits and PPF that are fixed-income instruments. The return potential and risk profile vary significantly across these options.
- Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Option - Investors can choose to invest through SIP, allowing them to spread their investments over time rather than making a lump-sum contribution. This helps in managing market fluctuations effectively.
- No Maximum Investment Limit - While there is no cap on the amount an investor can invest in ELSS, the tax deduction benefit is available only up to ₹1.5 lakh per year.
- Flexibility in Fund Selection - Investors can choose from a variety of ELSS funds offered by different asset management companies, depending on their financial goals and risk appetite.
Types of ELSS
ELSS funds can be categorised based on their investment strategy and risk profile. Understanding these types helps investors make informed decisions:
- Growth-Oriented ELSS - These funds focus on capital appreciation and reinvest any returns earned. Ideal for long-term investors, growth ELSS funds aim to maximise wealth over time.
- Dividend-Paying ELSS - These funds distribute profits as dividends to investors at regular intervals. Investors can choose between a dividend payout or reinvestment option, depending on their cash flow needs.
- Large-Cap ELSS Funds - These funds primarily invest in large-cap companies that have stable financials and lower volatility. They are suitable for investors seeking steady growth with relatively lower risk.
- Mid and Small-Cap ELSS Funds - These funds allocate a significant portion of their portfolio to mid and small-sized companies, offering higher growth potential but also carrying greater market risks.
- Multi-Cap ELSS Funds - These funds invest across large, mid, and small-cap stocks, providing diversification and a balanced risk-return profile. They are suitable for investors looking for a mix of stability and high growth.
By selecting an ELSS that aligns with one’s financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon, investors can optimise tax savings while participating in market-linked growth opportunities.
Who Should Invest in ELSS?
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is a tax-saving mutual fund that offers capital appreciation along with tax benefits. It is suitable for different types of investors based on their financial goals and risk appetite. Below are the key investor profiles who may benefit from ELSS:
- Taxpayers Seeking Deductions Under Section 80C - ELSS investments qualify for tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh per year under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, making it an ideal choice for individuals looking to reduce their taxable income.
- Long-Term Investors Looking for Wealth Creation - Since ELSS funds primarily invest in equities, they are best suited for investors with a long-term perspective, aiming for capital growth. The mandatory three-year lock-in period also encourages long-term investing.
- Investors Willing to Accept Market Risks - As ELSS funds invest in stocks, they are subject to market fluctuations. Investors who are comfortable with moderate to high risk in exchange for potentially higher returns may find ELSS a suitable option.
- New Investors Looking to Enter the Stock Market - For beginners who want exposure to equities but prefer professional fund management, ELSS serves as a structured way to start investing in the stock market while also availing tax benefits.
- Salaried Professionals Seeking Disciplined Investing - Employees can invest in ELSS through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), ensuring disciplined savings and investment habits while spreading market risk over time.
By aligning their investment goals with the characteristics of ELSS, investors can make an informed decision about whether this tax-saving option suits their financial needs.
How to Invest in ELSS?
Investing in ELSS is a straightforward process that can be done online or offline. Below are the step-by-step guidelines to help investors navigate the investment process efficiently:
- Select the Right ELSS Fund - Research different ELSS funds based on past performance, fund manager expertise, expense ratio, and portfolio composition. Choose a fund that aligns with your risk appetite and financial goals.
- Decide on Investment Mode – Lump Sum or SIP - Investors can either make a one-time lump sum investment or opt for a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) to invest gradually. SIPs help mitigate market risks by spreading the investment over time.
- Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) Formalities - Before investing, ensure you have completed KYC verification, which includes submitting identity proof, address proof, and PAN details. This step is mandatory for all mutual fund investments.
- Choose an Investment Platform - Investors can invest directly through the fund house’s website, authorised online investment platforms, or registered intermediaries. Direct plans have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans.
- Make the Payment - Select the preferred mode of payment—net banking, UPI, or bank transfer—to initiate the investment. For SIP, set up auto-debit instructions to ensure timely contributions.
- Receive Investment Confirmation - Once the investment is processed, investors receive a confirmation email or SMS along with details of their ELSS holdings. Units are allotted based on the applicable Net Asset Value (NAV) on the investment date.
- Monitor and Track Investment Performance - Although ELSS has a three-year lock-in period, it is advisable to track fund performance periodically to ensure it aligns with long-term financial objectives. Reviewing the fund’s consistency in returns and portfolio allocation can help in future investment decisions.
By following these steps, investors can seamlessly invest in ELSS and maximise their tax-saving benefits while building long-term wealth.
Advantages of Investing in ELSS
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) offers several benefits to investors, making it a preferred choice for tax savings and wealth creation. Below are the key advantages of investing in ELSS:
- Tax Benefits Under Section 80C - Investments in ELSS qualify for tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. This allows investors to reduce their taxable income while simultaneously growing their wealth.
- Shortest Lock-in Period Among Tax-Saving Options - ELSS has a mandatory lock-in period of just three years, which is the shortest among all tax-saving investment options under Section 80C, such as Public Provident Fund (PPF) or National Savings Certificate (NSC). This offers better liquidity compared to other tax-saving instruments.
- Potential for Higher Returns - As ELSS primarily invests in equities, it has the potential to generate higher returns compared to fixed-income tax-saving instruments like PPF and Fixed Deposits (FDs). Over the long term, equity investments have historically provided superior inflation-adjusted returns.
- Flexibility in Investment Modes - Investors can choose between a lump sum investment or a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). SIPs allow for disciplined investing while reducing the impact of market volatility through rupee cost averaging.
- Professional Fund Management - ELSS funds are actively managed by experienced fund managers who analyse market trends, sectors, and stocks to optimise returns. This makes ELSS a suitable option even for investors who lack expertise in stock selection.
- Diversification Benefits - ELSS funds invest across different sectors and market capitalisations, ensuring a well-diversified portfolio. This diversification helps in reducing the overall investment risk associated with equity markets.
With its tax benefits, equity exposure, and a relatively short lock-in period, ELSS offers a distinct approach to combining tax-saving with long-term investment planning.
Risks Involved in ELSS
While ELSS offers several advantages, it also comes with certain risks due to its equity exposure. Investors should be aware of the following risks before investing:
- Market Risk - ELSS funds invest in equities, making them susceptible to market fluctuations. Economic downturns, geopolitical events, or global financial crises can impact returns.
- Volatility Risk - Since ELSS is linked to stock market performance, short-term price fluctuations can be significant, potentially affecting the investment value.
- Lock-in Period Risk - ELSS has a mandatory three-year lock-in period, during which investors cannot withdraw their funds, even in case of market downturns.
- Returns Are Not Guaranteed - Unlike fixed-income tax-saving options, ELSS does not provide assured returns. Market conditions influence the fund’s performance, making returns uncertain.
- Fund Manager Risk - The success of an ELSS fund depends on the expertise of the fund manager. Poor investment decisions or misjudgements in stock selection may lead to underperformance.
- Sectoral and Concentration Risk - Some ELSS funds may have higher exposure to specific sectors, making them vulnerable to sector-specific downturns. Lack of diversification within the portfolio can amplify risks.
- Liquidity Risk - Although ELSS has a shorter lock-in period than other tax-saving instruments, investors cannot redeem their funds before three years, limiting liquidity in emergencies.
Understanding these risks allows investors to make informed decisions and align their investment strategy with their financial goals and risk appetite.
Factors to Consider Before Investing in ELSS
Before investing in an Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), it is essential to evaluate key factors to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Below are the important aspects to consider:
- Investment Objective - ELSS is ideal for individuals looking to save taxes while aiming for long-term capital growth. If your goal is wealth creation with a tax-saving benefit, ELSS can be a suitable option.
- Risk Appetite - Since ELSS primarily invests in equities, it carries market-linked risks. Investors with a higher risk appetite and a long-term perspective can benefit from ELSS, whereas those seeking stable and assured returns may find it unsuitable.
- Lock-in Period - ELSS comes with a mandatory three-year lock-in period, meaning investors cannot redeem or switch their units before this duration. It is essential to assess your liquidity needs before investing.
- Historical Performance of the Fund - While past performance does not guarantee future returns, evaluating a fund’s track record over different market cycles can help in making an informed decision. Comparing returns across different ELSS funds can provide insight into their consistency.
- Fund Manager’s Expertise - ELSS funds are actively managed, and the performance largely depends on the fund manager’s expertise. Reviewing the fund manager’s past decisions, investment strategy, and overall experience can help in selecting the right fund.
- Mode of Investment – SIP vs Lump Sum - ELSS allows investment through a lump sum or Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). SIPs help in mitigating market volatility through rupee cost averaging, whereas lump sum investments can be beneficial in bullish markets.
- Expense Ratio - The expense ratio represents the annual management fee charged by the fund. A lower expense ratio ensures that a larger portion of your investment is used for wealth creation rather than administrative costs.
- Tax Implications on Returns - Although ELSS investments qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C, the gains on redemption are subject to taxation. Understanding the taxability of returns helps in better financial planning.
Considering these factors can help investors make informed decisions and choose an ELSS fund that aligns with their financial goals and risk appetite.
Taxability of ELSS
Understanding the tax implications of ELSS investments is crucial for effective financial planning. Below is a breakdown of the tax treatment of ELSS:
- Tax Deduction Under Section 80C - Investments in ELSS qualify for tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. This helps in reducing taxable income.
- Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) Tax - Since ELSS has a three-year lock-in period, any gains from redemption fall under long-term capital gains (LTCG). Gains exceeding ₹1 lakh in a financial year are subject to 10% tax without indexation benefits.
- Dividend Taxation - If the ELSS fund follows a dividend option, the dividend received by investors is added to their total income and taxed as per their applicable income tax slab under the new tax regime.
- No Tax on Unrealised Gains - Since ELSS investments are locked in for three years, investors are not liable to pay tax on notional or unrealised gains during this period. Tax is applicable only upon redemption.
Investors should consider these tax aspects when planning their ELSS investments to optimise returns while adhering to tax regulations.
Popular ELSS in India
Equity-Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) are a popular tax-saving investment option that offers equity market exposure along with Section 80C tax benefits. Below is a comparative table of the top five ELSS funds in India based on their 5-year CAGR as of January 2025.
Comparison of Top ELSS Funds
Name of the Fund
| AUM (₹ Cr)
| CAGR 5Y (%)
| Expense Ratio (%)
| Alpha
| Sharpe Ratio
| CAGR 3Y (%)
|
Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund
| 10,512.81
| 30.25
| 0.59
| -2.56
| 0.04
| 17.53
|
Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund
| 4,506.61
| 23.46
| 0.63
| 3.43
| 1.14
| 18.21
|
Bank of India ELSS Tax Saver
| 1,441.45
| 23.07
| 0.83
| 0.69
| 0.47
| 17.35
|
SBI Long Term Equity Fund
| 27,791.08
| 23.05
| 0.95
| 4.64
| 1.14
| 24.12
|
Motilal Oswal ELSS Tax Saver Fund
| 4,414.88
| 21.15
| 0.64
| 5.48
| 1.05
| 22.65
|
The above funds are ranked based on their 5-year CAGR and provide a mix of high returns, risk-adjusted performance, and varied expense ratios. Below is an in-depth look at each of these funds.
Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund
This fund ranks first in 5-year CAGR performance (30.25%). It has an AUM of ₹10,512.81 crore and the lowest expense ratio (0.59%) among the five funds. However, its alpha (-2.56) suggests underperformance relative to its benchmark, and its Sharpe ratio (0.04) indicates limited risk-adjusted returns. Over the last three years, it has delivered a CAGR of 17.53%, placing it fourth in 3-year performance.
Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund
With a 5-year CAGR of 23.46%, this fund ranks second. It has an AUM of ₹4,506.61 crore and an expense ratio of 0.63%. The fund’s alpha (3.43) is the third highest among the five, indicating a solid performance against its benchmark. Additionally, its Sharpe ratio (1.14) is tied for the highest, reflecting strong risk-adjusted returns. Over the last three years, it has achieved a CAGR of 18.21%, ranking third in 3-year performance.
Bank of India ELSS Tax Saver
This fund ranks third with a 5-year CAGR of 23.07%. It has the lowest AUM (₹1,441.45 crore) among the top five and a relatively high expense ratio (0.83%). Its alpha (0.69) is moderate, and its Sharpe ratio (0.47) ranks fourth on the list. Over the last three years, it has recorded a CAGR of 17.35%, making it the lowest-performing fund in terms of 3-year returns.
SBI Long Term Equity Fund
With a 5-year CAGR of 23.05%, this fund ranks fourth. It has the highest AUM (₹27,791.08 crore) among the five funds, showing strong investor confidence. However, it also has the highest expense ratio (0.95%). The fund’s alpha (4.64) is the second highest, indicating strong performance against its benchmark, and its Sharpe ratio (1.14) is tied for the highest. It has the best 3-year CAGR (24.12%) among the five funds.
Motilal Oswal ELSS Tax Saver Fund
This fund ranks fifth with a 5-year CAGR of 21.15%. It has an AUM of ₹4,414.88 crore and an expense ratio of 0.64%. The fund’s alpha (5.48) is the highest among the five, suggesting strong outperformance against its benchmark. Additionally, its Sharpe ratio (1.05) ranks second, indicating good risk-adjusted returns. Over the last three years, it has delivered a CAGR of 22.65%, ranking second in 3-year performance.
These ELSS funds offer a combination of high growth potential, tax-saving benefits, and varying degrees of risk-adjusted returns. Investors should assess their risk appetite, investment goals, and fund performance before making a decision.