Financial planning is not just about earning money but also about how you handle your money and allow it to grow for you. For those who are just getting started, the easiest way would be to start researching different investment tools such as investment calculator and schemes online. You will easily find everything you need to know about different plans and their returns in just a few clicks.
However, if you find the information very overwhelming then you can consult an investment advisor or portfolio manager to help you diversify your investments right from the beginning.
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Investing allows an individual to invest an amount that they are not currently in need of and earn good returns on their hard-earned money. The longer your money stays invested, the more wealth you generate from your investments.
Why Should You Be Investing?
While investing is always a good habit, it helps to know what you are making your investments towards i.e., your goals. Be it saving for an international trip in the future, buying a car, renovating your home, or simply saving for your children, it is important to have a goal. Make it a habit to use an investment calculator before you start investing in any scheme and plan your finances to suit your short-term and long-term goals.
Another common goal that most individuals invest towards is saving taxes on their yearly income. At present, the old tax regime allows a deduction of up to Rs. 1,50,000 (total of all investments and payments present in this section) which includes saving in mutual funds, bonds, ULIPs, PPFs and even premium on your insurance policies.
With the help of an investment calculator, you can easily calculate your investments and save enough to claim tax deductions at the end of the financial year.
You can choose an investment calculator online to understand how much you need to start saving to achieve your goal in a stipulated timeframe, and what rate of returns you can expect on it.
5 Variables That You Need For An Investment Calculator Online
Often people search ‘what is investment’ and ‘how to earn on your idle savings’, and if you have done it too then investing is the ideal option for you. If you are thinking about planning your finances and do not know where to begin then an investment calculator would be a good place to start. Here are the 5 variables that will play a major role in creating your financial plan:
1. Your initial amount of investment: Also known as the principal amount, this is the amount that determines how fast your investment can yield returns. If you have recently received a lump sum then you can distribute it in investment schemes accordingly. For salaried individuals, a monthly SIP plan is an ideal way to go.
2. Determine a duration for your investment: If you have emergency funds kept aside then you can opt for a longer investment duration or even government schemes where your money is locked in for a set period like Sovereign Gold Bonds, FDs, PPFs etc. However, if you may be in need of money a few years down the line then decide a duration for your investments accordingly and don’t lock your money for a fixed duration.
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3. Rate of return on your investment: This differs based on the investment tool that you choose. The rate of return is usually higher for schemes that have a higher risk involved like equity mutual funds, stock market investments etc. You can also opt for lower risk-involving investments like debt funds, ULIPs, PPFs etc. To know how much your money can earn you have to estimate an average rate of return and feed it in the investment calculator online.
4. Desired amount: This is the sum you wish to achieve, to fulfil your goals or keep aside for your retirement. The longer your investment period is, the more desired amount can be expected from it.
5. Top-up or additional investment: If you keep contributing to your investment on a yearly basis, or however often as allowed by your investment scheme, it will result in a higher amount of returns over time because your investment earns compounding interest. However, this is not a compulsory factor.
While you are calculating your return on investments, do not forget to factor in your tax liabilities for the financial year. If you are investing in non-tax saving schemes like equity funds, securities etc, then your returns will be taxable as well. One of the most effective ways for a salaried person to reduce tax liability is with the help of multiple sections under the 1961 Income Tax Act.
Most investment calculators have these fields, which provide an accurate estimate of your current investment and the desired amount based on how long you stay invested. Start your investment plan today, to reap benefits in the long run and enjoy a stress-free retirement.
