Sec 54 ec Capital Gains Bonds

Capital Gains Bonds

Introduction

Capital gains tax can significantly impact the financial outcome of selling a long-term asset, such as property or stocks. However, the Indian Income Tax Act provides an effective way to reduce or defer this tax through Section 54EC Bonds.. These bonds not only provide an attractive investment avenue but also allow taxpayers to save on capital gains tax. By investing in these bonds, taxpayers can defer their tax liabilities, making it a prudent choice for those looking to manage their capital gains efficiently.

Why Choose this Product?

  • Get tax exemption on capital gains.
  • Maximum investment limit of up to ₹50 lakh in a financial year
  • 5.25% interest per annum.
  • 100% risk free payment.

All about Sec 54 EC 

Issue Opening Date: April 1, 2025, Issue Closing Date: March 31, 2026

Bond​​​​​​​ REC PFC IRFC HUDCO
Coupon/Interest rate/Yield  5.25% annually  5.25% annually  5.25% annually  5.25% annually 
Rating  AAA / Stable (CRISIL/ICRA/CARE/FITCH)   AAA Stable (CRISIL/ICRA/CARE)   AAA Stable (CRISIL/ICRA/CARE)  AAA Stable (ICRA/CARE/IRRPL) 
Tax Status  Taxable  Taxable  Taxable  Taxable 
Tax Benefit  SEC 54 EC  SEC 54 EC  SEC 54 EC  SEC 54 EC 
Minimum (₹)  20,000  20,000  20,000  20,000 
Maximum (₹)  50 lakh in a Financial Year across all the issuers of these bonds   50 lakh in a Financial Year across all the issuers of these bonds   50 lakh in a Financial Year across all the issuers of these bonds   50 lakh in a Financial Year across all the issuers of these bonds  
Tenor  5 Years  5 Years  5 Years  5 Years 
Interest Date  30th June  31st July  15th October  30th April 
Put/Call/Premature Encashment  Bullet repayment at the time of Maturity  Bullet repayment at the time of Maturity  Bullet repayment at the time of Maturity  Bullet repayment at the time of Maturity 
Mode Of Interest  Annual  Annual  Annual  Annual 

 

Which bonds are eligible:

  • REC (Rural Electrification Corporation Ltd)
  • IRFC (Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd)
  • PFCL (Power Finance Corporation Limited)
  • HUDCO (Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited)

Links to download blank application forms:

  • Rural Electrification Corporation of India (REC) Forms - click here
  • IRFC (Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd) - click here
  • PFC (Power Finance Corporation Limited) - click here
  • HUDCO (Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited) - click here

 

Provisions of Section 54EC

As per provisions of Income Tax Act, 1961, any long term capital gains arising from transfer of any capital asset would be exempt from tax under section 54EC of the Act if:

  • The entire capital gain realized is invested within 6 months of the date of transfer in eligible bonds.
  • Such investment is held for 5 years.
  • To avail of capital gain exemption, the bonds so acquired cannot be transferred or converted into money or any loan or advance can be taken on security of such bond within 5 years from date of acquisition else, the benefit would be withdrawn.
  • If the amount invested in bonds is less than the capital gains realized, only proportionate capital gains would be exempt from tax.

More About Capital Gains Bonds

  • Features of Sec 54 EC - Capital Gains Bonds
  • Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, allows investors to claim exemption on long-term capital gains by investing in specified bonds within six months of selling a capital asset. They offer fixed interest rates, ensuring a steady income stream. Investors cannot sell or pledge these bonds as security for a loan during the lock-in period. This provision encourages long-term investment in infrastructure development while providing tax benefits to investors, making it a popular choice for capital gain reinvestment.
  • Benefits of Sec 54 EC - Capital Gains Bonds
  • Section 54EC - Capital Gains Bonds offer several benefits to investors. Firstly, they provide a tax exemption on long-term capital gains if the gains are invested in these specified bonds within six months of selling a capital asset. The investment is locked in for five years, during which investors receive fixed interest payments, typically higher than conventional fixed deposits. These bonds are low-risk, issued by reputable entities like NHAI and REC, ensuring capital safety. Moreover, they provide a source of regular income through interest payments, making them attractive for those seeking tax-efficient investment avenues with stable returns over the medium term.
  • What are the documents required for Sec 54 EC - Capital Gains Bonds?
  • To invest in Section 54EC – Capital Gains Bonds the required documents typically include proof of identity (such as PAN card), proof of address (like Aadhaar card or passport), and documents related to the capital gains transaction (like sale deed or transaction statement). Additionally, investors may need to provide Bank Account details for interest payments and the investment amount. For those applying through a nominee or on behalf of a minor, guardianship or custodianship documents may be necessary. Ensuring all documents are in order and submitted correctly facilitates a smooth application process for these tax-saving bonds under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act.
  • Most Important Terms & Conditions
  • *The (Most Important Terms and Conditions) for each of our banking offerings features all the specific terms and conditions that govern their use. You must go through it thoroughly to fully understand the terms and conditions applicable to any banking product you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Under section 54EC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, only specified bonds are eligible for capital gains exemption. https://cleartax.in/s/section-54ec-bonds. These bonds are designed to encourage investment in infrastructure and development projects. To qualify for tax exemption on long-term capital gains, investors must invest the entire proceeds from the sale of a capital asset into these bonds within six months of the asset's transfer. These investments must be held for a minimum lock-in period of five years to retain the tax benefits.

As of the latest information available, the current interest rate on Capital Gain Bonds, such as those issued by Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd (IRFC) , Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC) and Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) is 5.25% per annum. These Bonds are specifically designated under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, offering tax exemption on long-term capital gains if the proceeds from the sale of a capital asset are invested in them within six months. The interest rate may vary slightly depending on market conditions and the terms set by the issuing authority at the time of issuance.

Investing in bonds that qualify under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act, 1961, can provide tax benefits on long-term capital gains. The choice of which bond offers the highest capital gain depends on several factors, including the prevailing interest rates at the time of investment and the specific terms of the bond issuer. Investors should consider current rates, tenure, and the issuer's credibility to determine which bond aligns best with their financial goals and risk tolerance.