The Government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) as a pension scheme exclusively for senior citizens aged 60 years and above. Managed by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), this scheme aims to provide financial security and a guaranteed pension to elderly individuals, ensuring a stable income post-retirement.
Features and Benefits of PMVVY
Retirement Financial Security via Pension Payment
PMVVY provides retirees with financial stability by offering assured pension payments and mitigating market volatility risks.
Assurance of Returns
Unlike other investment schemes influenced by market fluctuations, PMVVY safeguards seniors from economic uncertainties by guaranteeing a fixed return rate.
Periodic Payout Options
Investors can choose from multiple pension payout frequencies:
Monthly
Quarterly
Half-Yearly
Annually
Maturity Benefit
At the end of the policy term (10 years), the authority returns the purchase price along with the final pension installment to the subscriber.
Death Benefit
In the event of the policyholder’s death within the policy term, the nominee receives the entire purchase price of the policy.
Surrender Value
PMVVY permits premature exit under exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies of the spouse or policyholder, with a surrender value of 98% of the purchase price.
Free Lock-in Period
Subscribers have a 15-day free-look period (30 days for online purchase), during which they can opt out of the scheme if unsatisfied.
Loan Facility
After three years of investment, a loan facility is available under PMVVY, allowing borrowers to avail up to 75% of the purchase price.
Exclusion
In case of the policyholder’s demise by suicide, the full purchase price is returned to the nominee.
Eligibility Criteria for the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana
The applicant must be 60 years or older.
There is no maximum age limit.
The policy term is 10 years.
The scheme is available only for Indian citizens.
Purchase Price Payment for Different Periodic Payouts under PMVVY
The purchase price is determined by the pension amount chosen by the applicant. The minimum and maximum purchase price varies based on the payout frequency.
Maximum Purchase Price Under Different Modes of Pension
Mode of Pension
Maximum Purchase Price (INR)
Maximum Monthly Pension (INR)
Monthly
15,00,000
9,250
Quarterly
15,00,000
27,750
Half-Yearly
15,00,000
55,500
Yearly
15,00,000
1,11,000
Minimum Purchase Price Under Different Modes of Pension
Mode of Pension
Minimum Purchase Price (INR)
Minimum Monthly Pension (INR)
Monthly
1,50,000
1,000
Quarterly
1,50,000
3,000
Half-Yearly
1,50,000
6,000
Yearly
1,50,000
12,000
Comparison with Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS)
PMVVY is often compared with the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS), another government-backed retirement plan. Here’s how they differ:
Feature
PMVVY
SCSS
Interest Rate
Fixed by the Government
Market-linked
Tenure
10 years
5 years (extendable by 3 years)
Premature Exit
Allowed (with 2% penalty)
Allowed (with penalties)
Investment Limit
INR 15 lakh
INR 30 lakh
Tax Benefits
No Section 80C Benefit
Section 80C available
How to Apply for Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana Scheme (PMVVY)
PMVVY can be purchased online and offline through Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) branches and its official website.
Documents Required to Apply for Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)
The Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) is a well-structured pension scheme offering financial security to senior citizens. With assured returns, flexible payout options, and loan facilities, PMVVY serves as an excellent investment avenue for retirees seeking stability. Though it lacks tax benefits under Section 80C, its guaranteed pension and government backing make it a reliable option compared to other pension schemes like SCSS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for PMVVY?
Indian citizens aged 60 years or above can invest in PMVVY.
Can I invest in PMVVY online?
Yes, PMVVY can be purchased online via LIC’s official website.
Is PMVVY better than SCSS?
PMVVY offers a fixed pension, while SCSS provides higher investment limits and tax benefits.
What is the tenure of PMVVY?
The policy term is 10 years.
Is there any tax benefit under PMVVY?
No, PMVVY does not provide tax deductions under Section 80C.
Can I take a loan against PMVVY?
Yes, a loan of up to 75% of the purchase price is available after 3 years.
What happens if I surrender PMVVY before maturity?
A surrender value of 98% of the purchase price is paid in case of critical medical emergencies.
What is the interest rate for PMVVY?
The interest rate is fixed annually by the government and ensures stable returns.