Grandparents often dream of giving their grandchildren the best possible start in life, and that includes financial security. One of the most thoughtful ways to support their future is by investing in a savings plan. These plans offer stability, discipline, and returns that can help build a solid financial foundation for the next generation.
How to Ensure Savings for Grandchildren?
Setting up a savings plan for grandchildren starts with identifying clear long-term goals. It is then followed up by choosing financial instruments that are safe and can still offer potential growth. As you will probably be starting early, your investment can grow steadily over time.
When planning savings for grandchildren, it is important to consider factors such as:
Step 1. Time Horizon:
If you invest for the long term, you can accumulate higher returns through compounding.
Step 2. Purpose:
Is the savings plan for their education, marriage, career plans, or general financial security?
Step 3. Flexibility:
Some plans allow partial withdrawals or switching of funds if needs change.
Step 4. Tax Efficiency:
Opt for plans that offer tax benefits under Sections 80C or 10(10D), so that you save money while you invest for them.**
Step 5. Inflation:
If the question ‘Does inflation affect savings?’ is in your mind, know that the answer is ‘yes’. The rising cost of living can eat into the value of your funds over time; so, ensure you have some inflation-beating options in your savings portfolio.
By combining these factors, grandparents can create a secure financial roadmap that grows with the child.
Selecting the Right Savings Plan for Grandchildren
You will come across various options when choosing the best savings plan for grandchildren. Your decision should ideally depend on your financial goals, risk appetite, and the flexibility you desire.
1. Child-Specific Savings Plans
Some insurance providers offer dedicated child savings plans that can provide returns at key milestones. These come with life cover for the policyholder (it can be the grandparent or the parent) and ensure that the child's goals are secured even in their absence.
2. Fixed-Income Instruments
If you prefer low-risk savings plans, options such as recurring deposits, PPF, or senior citizen savings schemes can be useful. They can help grow money steadily over time and are relatively safer.
3. ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans)
ULIP-based child plans offer a combination of insurance and market-linked growth. They can deliver higher returns over the long term, although they carry some market risk.
4. Mutual Funds or SIPs
Investing in mutual funds through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) can build a substantial amount of wealth over a decade or more. You can make small contributions regularly, and it is easy to track or adjust your investment on the basis of performance.
When choosing from the types of savings plans available, compare options with care. Check fund performance, charges, the lock-in period, and payout options. Understanding the various features of savings plans, such as guaranteed returns, maturity benefits, and supplemental insurance coverage, can help you make an informed choice.
The importance of savings is doubled when it comes to your loved ones. By ensuring consistent savings for your grandchild today, you can create a solid financial legacy in the next 10-20 years. When your grandchild reaps the benefits of your financial planning, they will also become aware of what savings plans are and how they can use them for their distant future. Thus, compounding can go beyond just financial gains - it can also be in the form of good financial habits that give more and more over time.
** Tax exemptions are as per applicable tax laws from time to time.