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What are Monthly Income Schemes (MIS) in India?

Monthly Income Schemes (MIS) work by turning your lump-sum money into regular monthly payments, creating a reliable income stream. Each type of MIS strikes a different balance between safety, returns, and how easily you can access your money, depending on what level of risk you are comfortable with.

  • 14,098 Views | Updated on: May 15, 2025

What is the Monthly Income Scheme (MIS)?

A Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) functions as an investment apparatus that furnishes investors with unwavering, periodic financial disbursements. Perfect for those craving fixed monthly distributions while taking precautions on substantial monetary hazards. This particular investment vehicle guarantees steady cash flows without subjecting participants to market volatility or economic turbulence.

The MIS full form in insurance translates to Monthly Income Scheme. Within this framework, investors deposit substantial capital quantities, generating interest accumulation. Subsequently, they receive interest as monthly distributions, facilitating regular expense coverage. The principal remains secure. Returns are typically moderate, never matching riskier investment alternatives.

Top Monthly Income Scheme Options

There are several investment plans awaiting discovery for those seeking a Monthly Income Scheme in India that deliver consistent earnings.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)

The Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) represents a government-supported savings mechanism delivering predetermined monthly amounts to investors. For steady returns seekers, this constitutes a secure, low-risk alternative.

  • Guaranteed Monthly Income: Fixed interest distributions monthly at 6.6%.
  • Capital Protection: Government backing ensures investment security.
  • Investment Limit: Maximum ₹4.5 lakh individual investment, ₹9 lakh for joint accounts.
  • Lock-in Period: Five-year maturity requirement. Early withdrawals incur penalties.
  • Taxation: Interest faces income tax rates, but exempted from TDS

Fixed Deposits (FD) with Monthly Payouts

Among the most prevalent methods for generating steady monthly income is through interest payments on Fixed Deposits. Numerous banks and financial institutions provide FDs permitting monthly interest collection.

  • Regular Income: Monthly interest payment options available.
  • Flexible Tenure: FD periods range from seven days to ten years, varying by institution.
  • High Security: Bank FDs represent safe investments, particularly by government-backed institutions.
  • Interest Rate: Annual rates fluctuate 6% to 8%, depending on bank and tenure. Senior citizens receive enhanced interest benefits.
  • Taxes: Interest earnings face taxation. According to Budget 2025 announcements, TDS applies if exceeding ₹50,000 annually (₹1,00,000 for those over 60).

National Pension System (NPS)

The National Pension System (NPS) constitutes a government-sponsored retirement savings framework enabling retirement corpus building and regular post-retirement monthly income.

  • Long-Term Wealth Creation: Facilitates retirement fund accumulation through market-linked returns.
  • Flexible Contributions: Investment amounts vary, you can increase contributions according to financial capacity.
  • Monthly Pension: Post-retirement (age 60), lump sum withdrawal available, remaining amount provides regular pension.
  • Investment Choice: Options include equity, corporate bonds, government securities for enhanced returns. Tax Benefits: Contributions up to ₹1.5 lakh annually receive tax exemption under Section 80C. Additional ₹50,000 tax benefit under Section 80CCD(1B). Furthermore, 60% of retirement corpus withdrawal remains tax-free.

National Savings Certificate (NSC)

The National Savings Certificate (NSC) represents government-backed fixed-income investment providing secure returns, popular among risk-averse investors. No deposit limits exist. Also, loan facilities are available.

  • Guaranteed Returns: NSC delivers fixed 7.7% interest rates.
  • Lock-in Period: Five-year investment lock.
  • Tax Benefits: Investments up to ₹1.5 lakh annually qualify for Section 80C tax deduction.
  • No TDS: No tax deduction at source on interest earned, though interest remains taxable per income slab.
  • Compounded Growth: Annual interest gets compounded and reinvestment, ideal for wealth accumulation seekers.

Senior Citizen Saving Scheme

The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) functions as government-backed retirement planning providing Indian seniors steady, secure income sources.

  • High-Interest Rate: Currently offering 8.2% annual rates among highest small savings schemes, with quarterly payouts.
  • Government-Backed Security: Government of India backing ensures investment and interest payment security.
  • Eligibility: Indian residents aged 60 and above. Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) participants can begin investing at 55.
  • Investment Limit: Maximum ₹30 lakh per individual.

Long-Term Government Bonds

Long-Term Government Bonds constitute loans made to Central or State Governments for fiscal requirements. Consider them secure investments paying fixed regular interest rates, excellent income generation tools.

  • Utmost Safety: Among safest investments available, government guarantees virtually eliminate default risk.
  • Fixed Regular Income: Bonds provide semi-annual interest payments at predetermined rates, delivering steady, predictable cash streams.
  • Long-Term Horizon: Bond terms span 5 to 40 years, suitable for long-term income planning.

Corporate Deposits

Companies and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) offer Corporate Deposits as fixed-term public investments. Higher interest rates than bank FDs compensate for slightly elevated risk levels.

  • Higher Interest Rates: Primary investment attraction lies in interest rates typically 1–3% above bank fixed deposit offerings.
  • Flexible Tenure and Payouts: Companies provide various tenures, usually 1 to 5 years, different interest payment methods including monthly, quarterly, or maturity payouts.
  • Investment Options: Deposits available from manufacturing companies, service-sector entities, housing finance companies.
  • Taxation: All interest earnings face taxation, TDS applicable if interest exceeds ₹5,000 annually.

Systematic Withdrawal Plans

Mutual funds offer Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) enabling regular fixed amount withdrawals from investments.

  • High Flexibility: Withdrawal amount, frequency (monthly, quarterly), and dates are customizable. SWP modifications, cessation, or initiation possible anytime.
  • Potential for Capital Appreciation: Despite withdrawals, remaining mutual fund money stays invested, capable of growth.
  • Tax Efficiency: SWPs excel in tax avoidance. Only capital gains portions of withdrawals face taxation. Long-term capital gains up to ₹1 lakh remain tax-free for equity funds held over one year.

Annuity Plans

Life insurance companies sell annuity plans—products exchanging lump sum payments for guaranteed regular income over specified periods or lifetime. Designed for post-retirement requirements.

  • Guaranteed Lifelong Income: Primary advantage involves assured fixed amounts for life, eliminating outliving savings concerns.
  • Different Choices: Insurance companies offer various payout methods: life annuity, life annuity with purchase price to nominee, joint-life annuity, additional options.
  • Safety: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) oversight ensures plan reliability.

Equity Share Dividends

Another monthly or quarterly income generation method involves purchasing dividend-paying stocks. Dividends represent company profit distributions to shareholders. This approach suits higher risk tolerance individuals.

  • Income from Company Profits: Direct earnings from established profitable company success. Many blue-chip companies maintain long dividend payment histories.
  • Potential for Capital Growth: Beyond dividends, stock price appreciation benefits provide capital growth.
  • Market Risk: High-risk strategy due to potential significant stock portfolio value drops from market volatility, potentially damaging capital.

Features of Monthly Income Scheme

Understanding what is monthly income schemes leads to exploring their features. Monthly Income Schemes contain numerous features enhancing financial flexibility and peace of mind:

Unmatched Portability

Your MIS account travels effortlessly during job relocations or market dynamic changes. For instance, the POMIS scheme permits free account transfers between post offices.

Multiple Account Advantage

Multiple account opening with each post office deposit allows fund segregation for different goals or beneficiaries. Emergency funds, child education, diversified income streams—choices abound.

Flexibility At Maturity

MIS permits entire accrued amount withdrawal, ensuring significant financial infusion, or reinvestment for continued monthly income—choices adapt to evolving needs.

Monthly Payout Options

MIS provides regular monthly payout convenience, ensuring steady income flows. This feature makes it excellent for retirees or passive income seekers.

Premium Payment Flexibility

Premium amounts align with financial goals. MIS offers deposit structuring flexibility, whether preferring lump sum investments or staggered contributions.

Customizable Payout Choices

MIS allows payout option customization according to financial needs. Earning receipt customization includes direct bank transfers, post office withdrawals, or reinvestment in alternative schemes.

Types of Monthly Income Plans

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) make investing accessible universally. Two variants accommodate investors with different risk profiles and preferences for financial journey initiation.

Dividend-Oriented MIP

This MIP type pays earnings as regular dividends to investors. However, payouts depend on fund performance. No guaranteed fixed monthly income exists. The main advantage involves periodic cash flow receipt, suitable for retirees or extra income requirements. Since dividends depend on profits, some months may lack payouts.

Growth-Oriented MIP

Unlike dividend-oriented plans, growth-oriented MIPs reinvest earnings back into funds, facilitating money growth over time. Instead of regular payouts, investors benefit from long-term capital appreciation. This option better serves those avoiding immediate income needs but wanting investment growth providing larger future returns.

What is the Tax implication of Monthly Income Plans?

MIPs face taxation based on return types received, either dividends or capital gains. Here is taxation mechanics for each:

  • Tax on Dividend-Oriented MIP

Dividends from MIPs add to total income, taxed per income tax slab. If falling under the 30% tax bracket, dividend income faces 30% taxation.

  • Tax on Growth-Oriented MIP (Capital Gains Tax)

Growth-oriented MIP investment redemption earns capital gains. Tax depends on holding period duration:

  • Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) (holding period under 3 years): Taxed per income slab.
  • Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) (holding period 3+ years): 20% taxation with indexation benefits, reducing tax burden by accounting for inflation.

Best Time to Buy a Monthly Investment Plan

Optimal entry points occur when three factors align:

  • Interest-rate cycle peaks: Locking high coupons before rate declines increases lifetime income.
  • Personal cash-flow gap: Buy just before anticipated salary reductions or post-retirement to balance income.
  • Tax-planning window: Early fiscal year investment maximizes Section 80C or 80TTB deductions where applicable, increasing post-tax yields.

Careful timing consideration keeps MIS schemes efficient, predictable, and tax-smart. This directly addresses what is MIS and why it should be in your portfolio.

Who Should Invest in a Monthly Income Plan?

MIP ideally suits individuals seeking stable, reliable income sources while maintaining market growth exposure. Especially appropriate for retirees, senior citizens, and low-risk appetite individuals wanting earnings supplementation without high volatility. Working professionals or freelancers with irregular income can benefit from MIPs providing steady cash flows.

While MIPs offer stability, they are not entirely risk-free since partial equity market investment occurs. Investors should consider financial goals and risk tolerance before investing. Meeting chosen scheme eligibility criteria and KYC requirements remains important.

Things to Consider Before Investing in Monthly Income Schemes

Several factor analysis proves crucial before selecting optimal Monthly Income Schemes ensuring financial needs alignment.

Fund Performance

Examine scheme past performance across different market cycles. Consistent returns over time indicate well-managed funds.

Asset Allocation

Analyze scheme investment distribution between debt and equity. Higher equity portions offer growth potential but increase risk. Conversely, debt-heavy schemes provide stability with lower returns.

Risk Factor

Despite MIS relative safety, some market risk persists. Assess risk tolerance before investing.

Payout Frequency & Mode

Some plans provide monthly payouts, others distribute income quarterly or annually. Ensure payout modes suit your financial goals.

Expense Ratio

Funds charge management fees, known as expense ratios, affecting net returns. Lower expense ratios prove preferable.

Lock-in Period & Liquidity

Some schemes may restrict withdrawals. Check exit loads or penalties before investing.

Inflation Impact

Ensure expected returns can match inflation. Otherwise, income purchasing power may decrease over time.

Final Thoughts

Invest in your future with Monthly Investment Schemes. More than monthly paychecks—commitments to long-term financial stability and peace of mind. With low risk, simple access, and potential tax benefits, MIS represents ideal investment for individuals valuing predictability and security. Let 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) constitutes a fixed-income investment apparatus offering regular monthly disbursements to investors. Crafted for steady income seekers, this financial instrument operates through predetermined payout structures, eliminating uncertainty.

2

How does a Monthly Income Scheme work?

Upon MIS investment, your principal amount becomes locked within fixed tenure parameters, generating monthly interest payouts. Mechanistically speaking, the system functions through interest accumulation and distribution cycles. At the tenure conclusion, the principal returns intact to you. Your money works systematically while you receive benefits.

3

Who can invest in a Monthly Income Scheme?

Anyone—individuals, senior citizens, joint account holders—can participate in MIS investments. Accessibility remains remarkably broad. Some schemes accommodate investments from Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and minors through guardian representation. The inclusivity spans demographic boundaries. Age, family structure, or investment experience rarely create barriers.

4

What are the eligibility criteria for Monthly Income Schemes?

Primary eligibility criteria encompass Indian residency status and minimum age requirements is 18 years or above. Citizenship forms the fundamental prerequisite. Some schemes incorporate specific conditions for senior citizens or joint account configurations. Documentation requirements vary by scheme type and includes ge verification, identity proof, address confirmation.

5

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

Different schemes exhibit varying limit structures. Investment boundaries fluctuate dramatically across options. For instance, the Post Office MIS scheme maximum reaches ₹4.5 lakh for single accounts. Conversely, the National Savings Certificate imposes no deposit ceiling. Minimum thresholds often start modestly—sometimes as low as ₹1,000. Maximum caps protect schemes from excessive concentration. These parameters balance accessibility with operational sustainability.

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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