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Tata Capital > Blog > Wealth Services > Section 54EC capital gain bonds: Features, benefits, risks, and returns

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Section 54EC capital gain bonds: Features, benefits, risks, and returns

Section 54EC capital gain bonds: Features, benefits, risks, and returns

The perfect investment is one that balances risk with reward, aligns with your financial goals, and, most importantly, optimizes your tax liabilities. Finding such an investment is paramount for many investors, particularly those receiving profits from the sale of long-term assets like real estate. This is where Section 54EC bonds come into play, offering a strategic solution to your tax liabilities.

In this blog, we will navigate through the nuances of these bonds, laying out their features, risks, and potential returns. Tailored for savvy investors like you, understanding Section 54EC bonds can be a pivotal move in your financial journey.

What are Section 54EC capital gain bonds?

Section 54EC bonds, or capital gain bonds, are fixed-income instruments offering investors capital gains tax exemption u/s 54EC. Section 54EC bonds present a strategic financial tool for individuals aiming to manage tax liabilities effectively. Particularly tailored for long-term capital gains, these bonds offer a route to tax exemption.

When you sell assets such as land or buildings, classified as long-term capital assets, you attract capital gains tax on the returns earned. By reinvesting these gains into Section 54EC bonds, you can avail of a tax exemption on these gains, aligning with your tax planning strategies.

Key features of Section 54EC bonds

  1. Lock-in period: These bonds have a five-year lock-in period. Before April 2018, it was three years. You cannot redeem or transfer these bonds before the end of this period.
  2. Investment limits: The maximum investment in a financial year is capped at Rs. 50 lakhs, with each bond valued at Rs. 10,000.
  3. Tax on interest: The interest earned on these bonds is taxable, but no Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is applied.
  4. Credit rating: These bonds typically hold an AAA rating, reflecting high safety and creditworthiness.

Eligibility criteria for Section 54EC bonds

  1. Long-term capital gains: Your gains must be classified as long-term capital gains to avail of the tax benefits.
  2. Specific investment bonds: Investments should be in specific capital gain bonds issued by authorized entities like Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Power Finance Corporation (PFC), and REC Ltd.
  3. Exclusion from Section 80C: Investments in these bonds are not eligible for deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

How to invest in Section 54EC capital gain bonds in India?

Here’s how you can make an investment in capital gain bonds:

  • Understand what 54EC bonds are: Section 54EC bonds are government-backed capital gain bonds issued by bodies such as NHAI and REC. Their objective is to save tax on long-term capital gains from selling land or buildings.
  • Check your eligibility: You must have earned long-term capital gains from selling immovable property, such as land, house, or building, to be eligible for Section 54EC benefits.
  • Know the time limit: You must invest in the capital gain bonds within 6 months from the date of sale of the property.
  • Be aware of the investment limit: The maximum amount you can invest is Rs. 50 lakh in one financial year.
  • Understand the lock-in period: Section 54EC bonds’ lock-in period is 5 years. You cannot sell, transfer, or take a loan against them.
  • Know the interest rate: Section 54EC bonds’ interest rate usually ranges from 5-6% per year. The interest is taxable as per your income slab.
  • Select the mode of holding: You can hold bonds in demat form or a physical certificate.
  • Decide the interest payout option: Interest is generally paid out annually to your bank account.
  • Apply for the bonds: You can apply online or offline through authorized banks and institutions.
  • Keep documents ready: An investment in capital gain bonds requires a PAN card, proof of capital gains, and payment details.
  • Track maturity: The invested amount is returned to you on maturity after 5 years.

Step-by-step application process for Section 54EC bonds

The step-by-step process to apply for Section 54EC bonds:

  1. Calculate the long-term capital gains from selling your property.
  2. Make sure you invest within 6 months of the property sale date.
  3. Select approved issuers such as NHAI or REC.
  4. Decide investment amount. You can invest up to Rs. 50 lakh in a financial year.
  5. Select the demat or physical bond option.
  6. Fill out the application form. You can apply online or offline through authorized banks.
  7. Submit documents like PAN Card, capital gain details, and make payment.
  8. You will receive allotment details after processing.

Benefits of investing in 54EC bonds

  • Tax savings: Investing in these bonds can help you save on taxes levied on long-term capital gains on the sale of immovable assets like land, house property, and commercial property.
  • Government backing: The government often backs the bonds, reducing the credit risk and providing security.
  • Flexibility in holding: You can hold these bonds in either demat or physical form, offering flexibility in managing your investment.

Risks of Section 54EC bonds

Before investing in Section 54EC bonds, here are a few risk considerations that you need to keep in mind:

Lock-in period and transferability

You must consider the non-transferability and non-negotiability of these bonds during the five-year lock-in period.

Early redemption and loss of exemption

Selling or redeeming these bonds before the lock-in period ends can result in losing the tax benefits.

Section 54EC bonds interest rate risks

Fluctuations can affect these bonds’ attractiveness. Given that they feature a fixed interest rate, if the market interest rates rise significantly, the returns on these bonds might become less competitive.

Inflation impact on returns

With a fixed interest rate of around 5-6%, there is a high risk of losing money to inflation, especially on a post-tax basis. This means the real value of the returns could be eroded by inflation over time.

Returns and taxation on Section 54EC bonds

  1. Interest rate: Presently, REC Ltd. is the only company that is offering these bonds at an interest rate of 5.25% from April 1, 2023, which is 25 bps higher than FY23.
  2. Tax on interest: Although the tax-saving feature is attractive, remember that the interest earned is subject to income tax according to your tax slab.
  3. Comparison with other investments: It’s important to consider the post-tax returns when comparing with other investment options like fixed deposits or debt funds. Even though the interest rate might seem lower on these bonds, the tax savings on the principal can make it a more attractive option for certain investors.
  4. Wealth tax exemption: No wealth tax is levied on the investment in these bonds, which can be an added advantage for certain investors​.

Who should invest in Section 54EC capital gain bonds?

The individuals who should invest in Section 54EC bonds are:

  • Property sellers with long-term capital gains: People who have sold land, a house, or a building and earned long-term capital gains can invest in Section 54EC bonds to save tax.
  • Taxpayers looking for a tax exemption: Those who want to reduce or avoid capital gains tax under Section 54EC should consider these bonds.
  • Investors seeking safety: Since these bonds are backed by government institutions, they suit people who prefer low-risk investments.
  • People with surplus funds for 5 years: Investors who do not need the money immediately and can stay invested for the full lock-in period.
  • Conservative investors: Those who are comfortable with lower but steady returns instead of high-risk, high-return options.
  • Individuals with high tax slabs: People in higher tax brackets who want a legal way to manage tax liability.
  • Retired or near-retirement individuals: It is suitable for those who want capital protection with predictable interest income.

Conclusion

Section 54EC bonds offer an efficient and secure avenue for managing taxes on long-term capital gains. With features like a five-year lock-in period, a cap on investments, taxable interest without TDS, and a strong credit rating, these bonds cater to those seeking stability and tax savings with their investments.

At Tata Capital Wealth, we understand the importance of informed investment decisions. Our financial experts are committed to guiding you through the complexities of financial planning, ensuring that your investments align with your financial goals.

Visit our website to learn more about how Tata Capital Wealth can help you optimize your investment strategy and make the most of opportunities like Section 54EC bonds.

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FAQs

What are 54EC bonds, and who is eligible to invest?

Section 54EC bonds are government-backed bonds used to save tax on long-term capital gains from selling property. Individuals, HUFs, companies, and NRIs earning such gains are eligible to invest.

What is the lock-in period for Section 54EC bonds, and can they be redeemed early?

Section 54EC bonds’ lock-in period is 5 years. They cannot be sold, transferred, or redeemed before maturity. You can also not take a loan against them.

Are the interest earnings from Section 54EC bonds taxable?

Yes, the interest earned on Section 54EC bonds is fully taxable. It is added to your total income and taxed according to your applicable income tax slab.

Which institutions issue Section 54EC capital gain bonds in India?

Section 54EC bonds are mainly issued by government-backed institutions. Examples include the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC).

How can I invest in Section 54EC bonds in 2026?

You can invest in Section 54EC bonds online or offline through authorized banks or institutions. The investment must be made within 6 months of the date of the property sale. You must submit the required documents and make the necessary payment.

What is the maximum limit for investment in Section 54EC bonds per year?

The maximum investment allowed under Section 54EC bonds is Rs. 50 lakh in one financial year, even if your capital gains are higher than this amount.

Can NRIs invest in Section 54EC bonds?

Yes, NRIs can invest in Section 54EC bonds if they have long-term capital gains from selling property in India. They must meet all conditions under the Income Tax Act.

How do Section 54EC bonds compare with mutual funds or real estate for capital gains savings?

Section 54EC bonds offer tax savings with low risk and fixed returns. Mutual funds and real estate may give higher returns but involve higher risk. They do not provide a guaranteed capital gains exemption.

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