Which is best for retirement — EPF, NPS or PPF?

EPF: Best for salaried (8.25% + employer contribution, EEE). NPS: Best for high earners wanting market exposure and additional 80CCD(1B) ₹50K deduction. PPF: Best for self-employed or non-salaried wanting a risk-free EEE option. Optimal strategy: maximize all three.

What does EEE mean in EPF and PPF?

EEE = Exempt-Exempt-Exempt: (E1) Contribution is tax-deductible under 80C, (E2) Annual returns/interest are tax-free, (E3) Maturity proceeds are tax-free. EPF and PPF are fully EEE, making them India's best tax-efficient retirement vehicles.

NPS is EET (Exempt-Exempt-Taxable): Contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-exempt, but 40% of corpus must be annuitized (taxable income). The 60% lump sum is tax-free. Hence NPS is sometimes called 'EEE on 60%, EET on 40%.'

EPF vs NPS vs PPF ComparatorFY 2026-27

Side-by-side comparison of maturity corpus, tax rules (EEE vs EET), and liquidity across India's top three retirement instruments.

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Quick Summary: EPF vs NPS vs PPF Comparator

EPF, NPS, and PPF are the pillars of Indian retirement planning. In FY 2026-27, EPF/PPF are EEE (tax-free maturity), while NPS is partially taxable (annuity portion). This tool helps you find the optimal mix based on your salary, risk appetite, and desired retirement age.

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Regulatory Disclaimer · FY 2026-27

Last verified May 2026

Statutory Disclosure

Nature:Calculator platform and is NOT a SEBI-registered Investment Adviser. All calculations are indicative.

Risk:"Investments in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all related documents carefully before investing."

Consult a SEBI-registered IA or CA for personalised advice.

9 out of 10 traders in F&O incurred net losses (SEBI 2023). Tax estimates based on IT Act 2025. Trezoriq is not liable for financial decisions based on results.