80C Deduction Optimizer
Enter your current 80C investments to see how much of the Rs 1.5 lakh limit you are leaving unused — and the tax it costs.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Section 80C lets you deduct up to Rs 1,50,000 a year from taxable income — but only if you actually invest it, and only under the old tax regime:
- What counts: EPF employee share, PPF, ELSS, NSC, SCSS deposit, LIC premiums, tuition fees, home-loan principal, ULIPs, SSY.
- The common mistake: salaried people forget their EPF contribution (often Rs 60k–1.2L) already fills most of 80C — then over-invest in ELSS they didn't need.
- Math: in the 30% slab, every unused Rs 10,000 of 80C room costs Rs 3,000 in tax. In the 5% slab it costs only Rs 500 — the urgency depends on your slab.
- New regime? 80C gives zero benefit there. If you switched, this tool doesn't apply to you.
- March rush tip: don't buy a random ELSS in March to "save tax" — if EPF + existing investments already hit Rs 1.5L, extra ELSS buys you nothing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 80C limit?
Rs 1,50,000 per financial year, deducted from taxable income under the old tax regime.
Does 80C work in the new tax regime?
No — the new regime (default since FY 2023-24) has no 80C deduction. This tool is for old-regime filers only.
Does EPF count toward 80C?
Yes — your employee EPF contribution (12% of basic+DA) counts. For many salaried people it covers Rs 60,000–1,20,000 of the limit automatically.
How much tax does 80C save?
Used amount × your slab. Rs 1.5L in the 30% slab saves Rs 45,000; in the 5% slab it saves Rs 7,500.
Should I invest more if my EPF already covers 80C?
No tax reason to — extra ELSS/PPF beyond Rs 1.5L buys no additional deduction. Invest for returns, not for 80C.
Does home loan principal count?
Yes — the principal portion of your home-loan EMI counts toward 80C (interest is separate, under section 24b).
Do tuition fees count?
Yes — tuition fees for up to two children's full-time education count toward 80C.
ELSS or PPF for 80C?
ELSS: 3-year lock-in, market-linked, higher expected returns. PPF: 15 years, 7.1% assured, EEE tax status. Pick by horizon, not by habit.
What if I exceed Rs 1.5 lakh?
The excess simply gives no extra deduction — it still earns its normal returns, just without tax benefit.
Can I claim 80C for my parents' investments?
No — 80C is for investments in your (and your children's) name, not parents'.