Fixed Deposits Or Life Insurance? Which Is A Better Investment Option?

Fixed deposits are investment products. You can invest in fixed deposits for fixed tenures as per your convenience and get attractive returns on your investments at maturity. Normally, banks do not allow you to withdraw your deposits before a given maturity date. But, with prior notification to the bank, you can withdraw your fixed deposits. These deposits allow you to invest for a minimum period of 7 days to a maximum period of 10 years.

On the other hand, life insurance is an insurance product which you buy from a particular insurance provider/company by paying a specific amount of money as premiums. A life insurance policy provides an assured amount of sum to a nominated individual upon the death of the insured person. Life insurance policies are normally divided into two types - whole life insurance and term life insurance policies. You can buy these policies for different tenures based on your requirements. Not only do these policies provide risk coverage, you can also use these policies to pay off your medical bills, fund children's education and plan for your retirement.

Fixed Deposit Vs Life Insurance - Which Is Best For You?

Fixed deposit is always a better option to invest as it is purely designed for your investment and savings related needs. If your intention is to save and invest for the future, it is advisable you invest in fixed deposits. Listed below are some of the major differences between fixed deposits and life insurance.

• Fixed deposit is a purely investment product whereas life insurance is an insurance product. Investment is something that helps you save for the future whereas insurance is something which you purchase for risk protection and protect your family in our absence.
• Fixed deposits are best for both short and medium term investments whereas life insurance plans are designed for long term investments. You can invest for a period of as low as 7 days in fixed deposits unlike a life insurance plan wherein you need to invest for at least 10 years.
• You can invest a minimum amount of Rs. 1000 in bank fixed deposits whereas in case of life insurance, the minimum premium is different for different plans based on the insured individual's age, gender, policy term and premium payment condition.
• Fixed deposits offer fixed returns on investments and it is mentioned in the beginning when you open your deposit. But, investment in Unit Linked Life Insurance Plans is subject to market risk. The fund value you receive by investing in these plans are affected by the prevailing market condition.
• Fixed deposits add to your habit of savings whereas life insurance plans are purchased out of caring and fear that your near and dear ones may face some risks in future.
• Both fixed deposits and life insurance policies can be withdrawn. You can withdraw your fixed deposits at any time by sending a notification to your concerned bank whereas a lock in period of 3 and 5 years is application to regular life insurance and ULIP plans respectively.

Conclusion 

Even if you don't get any tax benefit for investing in fixed deposits, it is an ideal product to invest in if you want to get fixed returns on your investments. So, if you want to earn on a regular basis, a fixed deposit account can be the perfect choice. Invest in fixed deposits and get income in the form of interest. Fixed deposit is the most preferred choice of investment among senior citizens.

Also read: 

 Terms You Should Be Aware of Before Buying Life Insurance

Understanding The Basics Of Life Insurance

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.