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List Of Tax-Free Bonds 2024

By Adnan Ali

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Updated on: Jun 12th, 2024

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4 min read

Many investment options are available in the market, and it can take time to choose the right one. But if your investment goals involve capital safety and tax benefits, the tax-free bond is the right option. Read on to learn about tax-free bonds and find the top tax-free bonds for 2024. 

What Are Tax-Free Bonds? 

Government Entities issue fixed-income securities. These are known as tax-free bonds. They provide investors with the opportunity for yearly pre-fixed interest earnings and are a reasonably safe investment choice. In addition, the interest received is tax-free, allowing investors to increase their savings. The principal amount is payable upon maturity, similar to other bonds.

These bonds typically have maturities between 10 and 20 years, and their interest rates are usually lower than those offered by other fixed-income investment options. As a result, they are regarded as a secure investment choice and are appropriate for investors seeking a reliable, long-term investment with tax advantages.

List Of Tax-Free Bonds 

Find the tax-free bonds list 2024 below, along with their details: 

                                         Issuer Coupon rate (Interest rate)Maturity DateYield to Maturity (%)
National Highways Authority of India8.7505-Feb-20295.48
National Housing Bank9.116-Nov-20335.01
NTPC Limited8.9116-Dec-20335.6
Rural Electrification Corporate Limited8.7124-Sep-20285.49
Housing & Urban Development Corporation7.648-Feb-20325.7
Indian Railways Corporation Limited8.6326-March-20295.11
Power Finance Corporation Limited8.6716-Nov-20335.20

How To Apply For Tax-Free Bonds? 

You can invest in a tax-free bond through a primary or secondary market. You can apply online or offline by following the steps given below: 

  • Step 1: Choose a financial organisation with a solid market reputation. The choices include banks, stockbrokers, and mutual funds, among others.
  • Step 2: Look into the various tax-free bonds on the market and their benefits. To make an informed choice, research the issuer, interest rate, tenor, credit rating, etc.
  • Step 3: Check your eligibility and any age restrictions to see if you match the requirements.
  • Step 4: You must have a Demat account to purchase tax-free bonds. You can get one with your preferred financial institution.
  • Step 5: Apply for a bond online or by visiting their office. 
  • Step 6: Transfer the amount required to purchase the bond to your Demat account and wait for allotment. This may take a few days. 
  • Step 7: Keep track of the bond once allotted. Checking your Demat account frequently or signing up for alerts from the financial institution are two ways to manage this.
  • Step 8: Check your Demat account for interest credits. Tax-free bonds usually give out interest annually or semi-annually. 

Features And Benefits Of Tax-Free Bonds 

Have a look at the features and benefits of tax-free bonds before you start investing: 

  • Security 

Investors are drawn to tax-free bonds because they provide a constant, tax-free income stream with no chance of losing money. After all, the bonds are backed by government securities.

  • Stable income 

Investing in tax-free bonds will earn you an annual guaranteed income. Along with the principal returned to you at maturity, the yearly interest payment is tax-free too.

  • Higher profit for higher tax limit

Tax-free bonds are a great investment choice for high-net-worth individuals aiming to increase their fortune. As a result, you can generate greater profits if you come under a higher tax bracket. Furthermore, there is no maximum investment amount permitted in tax-free bonds. As a result, you can invest more for better returns and more tax advantages. 

  • Coupon rate 

Given that the interest on these bonds is tax-free, the coupon rate for tax-free bonds typically varies from 5.50% to 7.50%, which is fairly appealing.

  • Liquidity 

Tax-free bonds have low liquidity when compared to other asset types. Thus investors need to be aware of this. Nonetheless, one can purchase tax-free bonds via stock exchanges because they are listed on the  NSE (National Stock Exchange) and BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange).

Tax-free Bonds For Senior Citizens 

Tax-free bonds are an ideal investment option for senior citizens due to the following reasons:

  • Government organisations back them. Hence, they have very low chances of default. 
  • These bonds offer capital security. 
  • You can earn a regular, stable income from interest payments. 

Difference Between Tax-Saving Bonds And Tax-Free Bonds 

Tax-free and tax-saving bonds sound similar. But there are some significant differences between them. Learn their differences, so you don’t get confused and make the right investment choice. 

                  Tax Savings Bond                     Tax-Free Bond 
The initial investment capital is exempt from taxation. Interest earned is free from taxation. 
Tax exemption is applicable as mentioned under Section 80CCF of the Income Tax Act. Tax exemption is applicable as stated under Section 10 of the Income Tax Act.
Lower interest payment when compared to tax-free bonds. Higher interest rates than tax savings bonds. 
Tax exemption up to Rs.20,000 per financial year.  The maximum amount of investment is Rs.5 lakh per year. 
These bonds have a repurchase contract that allows you to redeem them after 5 to 7 years. These bonds have a maturity or lock-in period of 10, 15, and 20 years. 

Conclusion 

Tax-free bonds are best suited for risk-averse investors with a low appetite for risk. Also, they are appropriate for those who want to invest over a longer time horizon. Hence, consider your financial and liquidity needs before choosing a tax-free bond.  

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About the Author

I am a curious person, and Finance is at the top of my list of interests. With more than 5 years of experience in fintech, I am an expert in lending, investment and personal finance. I believe the Devil lies in details, so I dig a lot before writing anything and armed my writing pieces with figures and facts. Read more

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Quick Summary

Tax-free bonds provide a safe investment option with tax benefits. They offer fixed interest earnings and have maturities of 10-20 years. Top tax-free bonds for 2024 include those issued by National Highways Authority of India, National Housing Bank, NTPC Limited, etc. Investors can apply for tax-free bonds through primary or secondary markets. Features include security, stable income, higher profit potential for higher tax brackets, and a coupon rate of 5.50% to 7.50%. Tax-free bonds are ideal for senior citizens.

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