Safety vs. Growth: PPF offers guaranteed returns, like a safe savings account. NPS invests in the market, so returns can be higher but are not guaranteed.
Lock-in Period: PPF locks your money for 15 years, with partial withdrawals after a certain period. NPS limits withdrawals till retirement (age 60), with some exceptions.
Tax Benefits: Both offer tax benefits on contributions and earned interest. NPS offers additional tax deductions.
Who Can Invest?: Anyone can open a PPF account. NPS is mainly for salaried employees, though self-employed can now join.
Investment Limits: PPF has a yearly investment limit. NPS allows you to contribute as much as you want (within limits set by your income).
Risk Tolerance: PPF is ideal for risk-averse investors. NPS suits those comfortable with some market risk for potentially higher returns.
Maturity Benefits: Upon maturity, you get your PPF principal amount and accumulated interest. NPS offers a mix of lump sum and pension payments.
Flexibility: PPF allows partial withdrawals after a lock-in period. NPS offers limited withdrawal options before retirement.
Who Manages It?: PPF is managed by the government. NPS investment choices are managed by professional fund managers.
Retirement Goals: PPF is good for a fixed retirement corpus. NPS can provide a regular income stream alongside a lump sum.