Finance Guides
Practical, jargon-free guides on tax, investments, and personal finance — written for India.
Old vs New Tax Regime: Which Saves More Tax?
A complete breakdown of both regimes with worked examples for ₹5L, ₹10L, ₹15L and ₹20L income. Includes the Budget 2024 changes.
- ✓ New regime has lower slab rates
- ✓ Old regime allows 80C, HRA, home loan deductions
- ✓ New regime default from FY 2024-25
How to Choose the Right Home Loan in India
Fixed vs floating rate, MCLR vs repo-linked rates, processing fees, prepayment penalties — a practical guide before you sign.
- ✓ Floating rates are lower long-term
- ✓ Compare 5+ lenders before deciding
- ✓ RLLR loans benefit most from RBI rate cuts
SIP vs Lump Sum: Which Grows More Wealth?
Data-driven comparison across bull markets, bear markets and sideways markets. When to choose each strategy.
- ✓ SIP wins in volatile/falling markets
- ✓ Lump sum wins in steady bull markets
- ✓ Most investors should default to SIP
PPF vs ELSS: Best 80C Investment in 2024
Compare returns, lock-in periods, tax treatment and liquidity between PPF and ELSS mutual funds.
- ✓ PPF: guaranteed 7.1%, 15yr lock-in, EEE
- ✓ ELSS: market-linked, 3yr lock-in, LTCG taxed
- ✓ Younger investors → ELSS; conservative → PPF
Understanding GST for Freelancers & Businesses
When to register for GST, how to file returns, input tax credit basics, and the most common mistakes small businesses make.
- ✓ Mandatory registration above ₹20L turnover
- ✓ File GSTR-1 monthly/quarterly
- ✓ ITC can significantly reduce tax outgo
HRA Exemption: Step-by-Step Calculation Guide
The three-rule formula explained with solved examples for metro and non-metro employees. Includes common mistakes to avoid.
- ✓ Minimum of 3 amounts is the exemption
- ✓ 50% rule for Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata
- ✓ Rent must exceed 10% of Basic + DA