Retirement Planning: SCSS vs NSC – Which One Gives Better Returns?
Siddhi Jain March 19, 2025 08:15 PM

Senior citizens need safe and profitable investment options for a secure future. Two popular choices are:

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
National Savings Certificate (NSC)

Both offer attractive interest rates and government-backed security, making them reliable investment options. Let’s compare them!

📌 SCSS (Senior Citizen Savings Scheme)

Interest Rate: 8.2% (Jan-Mar 2024)
Investment Limit: Up to ₹30 lakh
Maturity Period: 5 years (extendable by 3 years)
Interest Payout: Quarterly – Ensures regular income
Tax Benefits: Deduction under Section 80C
Risk Level: Low-risk, government-backed

Best For: Senior citizens who want regular income and safe returns.

📌 NSC (National Savings Certificate)

Interest Rate: 7.7% (Jan-Mar 2024)
Investment Limit: No upper limit
Maturity Period: 5 years
Interest Payout: Compounded annually, paid at maturity
Tax Benefits: Deduction under Section 80C
Risk Level: Low-risk, government-backed

Best For: Long-term investors who want tax savings and compounded returns.

📊 SCSS vs NSC: Which One is Better?

Feature SCSS NSC
Interest Rate 8.2% 7.7%
Investment Limit ₹30 lakh No limit
Maturity Period 5+3 years 5 years
Interest Payout Quarterly At maturity (compounded)
Liquidity More liquid Less liquid
Best For Regular income Tax-saving & long-term growth

💡 Which One Should You Choose?

✔ If you need regular income, go for SCSS.
✔ If you want tax savings & long-term growth, choose NSC.
Best Strategy? Diversify – Invest in both SCSS & NSC for a balanced portfolio.

Would you like a detailed investment plan tailored to your needs?

© Copyright @2025 LIDEA. All Rights Reserved.