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What are Monthly Income Schemes (MIS) in India?

Looking for a reliable monthly income stream to supplement your earnings or cushion your retirement? Look no further than Monthly Income Schemes (MIS)! These plans offer guaranteed returns every month. The government offers them through the Post Office Department and various banks as Fixed Deposit (FD) schemes. They are beneficial for retirees, pensioners, and those who need a consistent income stream. The monthly payout from such schemes helps you cover day-to-day expenses without having to rely entirely on savings.

  • 11,536 Views | Updated on: May 15, 2025

What is the Monthly Income Scheme (MIS)?

A Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) is an investment plan that provides a regular and stable income to investors. It is suitable for individuals who prefer low-risk investments and want a fixed monthly payout. This type of scheme ensures that the investor receives a steady source of income without worrying about market fluctuations or financial instability.

In a Monthly Income Scheme, the investor deposits a lump sum amount, and interest is earned on this deposit. The interest is then distributed as a monthly payout, helping them manage regular expenses. The principal amount remains safe and is returned to the investor at the end of the scheme’s tenure. Since the main objective is to offer financial security, the returns are usually moderate and not as high as riskier investments.

Top Monthly Income Scheme Options

If you are looking for a Monthly Income Scheme in India as a reliable way to earn a steady income, several investment plans can help you.

  1. Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)

The Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) is a government-backed savings scheme that provides investors with a fixed monthly income. It is a safe and low-risk option if you are looking for stable returns.

  • Guaranteed Monthly Income: You can earn a fixed interest payout of 6.6% every month.
  • Capital Protection: As a government-backed scheme, your investment is secure.
  • Investment Limit: You can invest up to ₹4.5 lakh, and joint accounts allow up to ₹9 lakh.
  • Lock-in Period: The maturity period is 5 years. Premature withdrawals are allowed with a penalty.
  • Taxation: Interest earned is taxable as per your income tax slab but is not subject to TDS.
  1. Fixed Deposits (FD) with Monthly Payouts

A Fixed Deposit (FD) is one of the most common ways to earn a steady monthly income through interest payouts. Many banks and financial institutions offer FDs with the option to receive interest every month.

  • Regular Income: You can choose the monthly interest payout option.
  • Flexible Tenure: FD tenures range from 7 days to 10 years, depending on the bank.
  • High Security: Bank FDs are considered safe investments, especially when placed in government-backed banks.
  • Interest Rate: It varies between 6% and 8% per annum, depending on the bank and tenure. Senior citizens get extra interest benefits.
  • Taxation: Interest earned is taxable. As per the new Budget 2025 announcements, it is subject to TDS if it exceeds ₹50,000 per year (₹1,00,000 for senior citizens).
  1. National Pension System (NPS)

The National Pension System (NPS) is a government-sponsored retirement savings scheme that allows you to build a corpus for retirement and receive regular monthly income after retirement.

  • Long-Term Wealth Creation: It helps in accumulating funds for retirement with market-linked returns.
  • Flexible Contributions: You can invest any amount and increase contributions as per your financial capacity.
  • Monthly Pension: After retirement (from age 60), you can withdraw a lump sum, and the remaining amount provides a regular pension.
  • Choice of Investment: You can choose between equity, corporate bonds, and government securities for better returns.
  • Tax Benefits: Contributions up to ₹1.5 lakh per year are tax-exempt under Section 80C. An additional ₹50,000 tax benefit under Section 80CCD(1B) is also given. Also, 60% of the corpus withdrawn at retirement is tax-free.
  1. National Savings Certificate (NSC)

The National Savings Certificate (NSC) is a government-backed fixed-income investment that provides safe returns and is popular among risk-averse investors. It has no deposit limit and also offers a loan facility.

  • Guaranteed Returns: NSC offers fixed interest rates at 7.7%.
  • Lock-in Period: The investment is locked for 5 years.
  • Tax Benefits: Investments up to ₹1.5 lakh per year are eligible for tax deduction under Section 80C.
  • No TDS: There is no tax deduction at source (TDS) on interest earned, but the interest is taxable as per your slab.
  • Compounded Growth: Interest is compounded annually and reinvested, making it ideal for those looking for wealth accumulation.

Features of Monthly Income Scheme

Monthly Income Schemes are a treasure of features that enhance financial flexibility and peace of mind. Some of those features are:

Unmatched Portability

Your MIS account effortlessly travels with you in situations like a job relocation or if the market dynamics change. For instance, under the POMIS scheme, you can transfer your account free of charge from one post office to another.

Multiple Account Advantage

You can open multiple accounts with each post office deposit, allowing you to segregate funds for different goals or beneficiaries. Think emergency fund, child’s education, or diversified income streams – the choice is yours.

Flexibility at Maturity

With MIS, you can withdraw the entire accrued amount, ensuring a significant financial infusion, or opt for reinvestment to enjoy continued monthly income – the choice is yours, tailored to your evolving needs.

Monthly Payout Options

MIS provides the convenience of regular monthly payouts, ensuring a steady income flow. This feature makes it an excellent choice for retirees or individuals looking for passive income.

Premium Payment Flexibility

You can choose the premium amount based on your financial goals. MIS offers flexibility in structuring your deposits, whether you prefer a lump sum investment or staggered contributions.

Customizable Payout Choices

MIS allows you to tailor your payout options to your financial needs. You can customize how you receive your earnings, such as through direct bank transfers, post office withdrawals, or reinvestment in another scheme.

Types of Monthly Income Plans

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) make investing accessible to all. They are available in two variants so that investors with different risk profiles and preferences can start their financial journey.

  1. Dividend-Oriented MIP

This type of MIP pays out earnings in the form of regular dividends to investors. However, these payouts depend on how well the fund performs. There is no guarantee of a fixed monthly income. The main advantage is that you receive periodic cash flow, making it suitable for retirees or those needing extra income. However, since dividends depend on profits, there may be months without any payout.

  1. Growth-Oriented MIP

Unlike dividend-oriented plans, growth-oriented MIPs reinvest earnings back into the fund, helping your money grow over time. Instead of receiving regular payouts, investors benefit from long-term capital appreciation. This option is better for those who do not need immediate income but want their investment to grow and provide larger returns in the future.

What is the Tax implication of Monthly Income Plans?

MIPs are taxed based on the type of returns you receive, either as dividends or capital gains. Here’s how taxation works for each:

  1. Tax on Dividend-Oriented MIP

Dividends from MIPs are added to your total income and taxed as per your income tax slab.

This means if you fall under the 30% tax bracket, the dividend income will be taxed at 30%.

  1. Tax on Growth-Oriented MIP (Capital Gains Tax)

When you redeem your investment in a growth-oriented MIP, you earn capital gains. The tax depends on how long you held the investment:

  • Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) (holding period less than 3 years): Taxed as per your income slab.
  • Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) (holding period of 3+ years): Taxed at 20% with indexation benefits, which reduces the tax burden by accounting for inflation.

Who Should Invest in a Monthly Income Plan?

An MIP is ideal for individuals looking for a stable and reliable source of income while keeping some exposure to market growth. It is especially suited for retirees, senior citizens, and those with low-risk appetites who want to supplement their earnings without taking on high volatility. Working professionals or freelancers with irregular income can also benefit from MIPs as they provide a steady cash flow.

While MIPs offer stability, they are not entirely risk-free since they invest partially in equity markets. So, investors should consider their financial goals and risk tolerance before investing. It is also important to meet the chosen scheme's eligibility criteria and KYC requirements.

Things to Consider Before Investing in Monthly Income Schemes.

It is important to analyze several factors before selecting the best Monthly Income Scheme to ensure it meets your financial needs.

  • Fund Performance: Check the past performance of the scheme over different market cycles. Consistent returns over time indicate a well-managed fund.
  • Asset Allocation: Analyze how the scheme distributes investments between debt and equity. A higher equity portion offers growth potential but increases risk. On the other hand, a debt-heavy scheme provides stability with lower returns.
  • Risk Factor: Even though MIS is relatively safe, it still carries some market risk. Assess your risk tolerance before investing.
  • Payout Frequency & Mode: Some plans provide monthly payouts, while others may distribute income quarterly or annually. Ensure the payout mode suits your financial goals.
  • Tax Implications: Understand the tax treatment of earnings. As discussed, dividends are taxed as per your income slab, and capital gains tax applies depending on your holding period.
  • Expense Ratio: The fund charges a management fee, known as the expense ratio, which affects net returns. A lower expense ratio is preferable.
  • Lock-in Period & Liquidity: Some schemes may have restrictions on withdrawals. Check for exit loads or penalties before investing.
  • Inflation Impact: Ensure the expected returns can keep up with inflation. Otherwise, the purchasing power of your income may decrease over time.

Final Thoughts

Invest in your future with a Monthly Investment Scheme. It is not just a monthly paycheck but a commitment to long-term financial stability and peace of mind. With low risk, simple access, and potential tax benefits, MIS is the ideal investment for individuals who value predictability and security. Let your hard-earned money work for you, month after month, year after year. Choose MIS and enjoy the freedom that financial independence brings.

FAQs on Monthly Income Schemes

1

What is a Monthly Income Scheme?

A Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) is a fixed-income investment plan that provides regular monthly payouts to investors. It is designed for those seeking a steady income.

2

How does a Monthly Income Scheme work?

When you invest in an MIS, your principal amount is locked in for a fixed tenure, and you receive interest payouts every month. At the end of the tenure, the principal is returned to you.

3

Who can invest in a Monthly Income Scheme?

Anyone, including individuals, senior citizens, and even joint account holders, can invest in an MIS. Some schemes also allow investments from Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and minors through guardians.

4

What are the eligibility criteria for Monthly Income Schemes?

The primary eligibility criteria include being an Indian resident and meeting the minimum age requirement, usually 18 years or older. Some schemes have specific conditions for senior citizens or joint accounts.

5

What is the minimum and maximum investment limit for these schemes?

Different schemes have varying limits. For instance, the maximum limit for the Post Office MIS scheme is ₹4.5 lakh for single accounts, while there is no deposit limit for the National Savings Certificate.

Amit Raje
Written By :
Amit Raje

Amit Raje is an experienced marketer who has worked in various Fintechs and leading Financial companies in India. With focused experience in Digital, Amit has pioneered multiple digital commerce in India. Now, close to two decades later, he is the vice president and head of the D2C business department. He masters the skill of strategic management, also being certified in it from IIMA. He has challenged his challenges and contributed his efforts in this journey of digital transformation.

Amit Raje
Reviewed By :
Prasad Pimple

Prasad Pimple has a decade-long experience in the Life insurance sector and as EVP, Kotak Life heads Digital Business. He is responsible for developing user friendly product journeys, creating consumer awareness and helping consumers in identifying need for life insurance solutions. He has 20+ years of experience in creating and building business verticals across Insurance, Telecom and Banking sectors

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The information herein is meant only for general reading purposes and the views being expressed only constitute opinions and therefore cannot be considered as guidelines, recommendations or as a professional guide for the readers. The content has been prepared on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other sources believed to be reliable. Recipients of this information are advised to rely on their own analysis, interpretations & investigations. Readers are also advised to seek independent professional advice in order to arrive at an informed investment decision. Further customer is the advised to go through the sales brochure before conducting any sale. Above illustrations are only for understanding, it is not directly or indirectly related to the performance of any product or plans of Kotak Life.

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