Is ULIP a Good Investment?

ULIPs offer dual benefits of life insurance and market-linked returns with tax benefits and flexibility. Check how it helps you grow your wealth and explore suitable plans for you.
Check Life Insurance Policies
3 min
07-May-2025
If you’re wondering “Is ULIP a good investment?” — you’re not alone. Many financially-aware individuals like you are searching for smarter ways to secure their family’s future and grow their wealth over time. ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans) are designed to blend insurance protection with market-linked growth — in one seamless product.

ULIPs are gaining popularity among modern investors who want more value from their insurance policies — not just protection, but potential returns too. Whether you're saving for your child’s education, planning for retirement, or simply looking to diversify your long-term investment strategy, ULIPs provide the flexibility, transparency, and control to help you reach your financial goals, while ensuring that your loved ones remain protected.

What is a ULIP and how does it work? Simplifying the basics for better decisions

ULIP, or Unit Linked Insurance Plan, is a unique financial product that combines life insurance coverage with investment in market-linked funds. It caters to those who want dual benefits — protection for their loved ones and potential long-term wealth creation.

When you pay a ULIP premium:

A portion goes toward life cover

The rest is invested in equity, debt, or hybrid funds of your choice

ULIPs offer flexibility, allowing you to switch between funds based on market performance or your risk appetite — giving you greater control over your investments.

Not sure how much life cover you need? Start with a personalised suggestion → Get a Quick Quote by entering your mobile number and filling up a few necessary details.

How ULIPs work in simple terms:

Policyholder pays premium regularly (monthly/quarterly/annually)

Part of premium secures a life insurance cover

Remaining premium is invested in chosen funds (equity, debt, hybrid)

Returns depend on market performance

Tax benefits available under Sections 80C and 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act

Key benefits and risks of investing with ULIP

ULIPs are powerful when chosen wisely. They offer a balance between safety, flexibility, and growth — but like all investments, understanding the pros and cons is key to making confident decisions.

63% of policyholders say ULIPs helped them meet their life goals with discipline.

Key benefits of ULIPs:

Dual advantage: Insurance + investment in one plan

Tax efficiency: Deduction under 80C + tax-free maturity under 10(10D)*

Fund switch flexibility: You can switch between equity and debt based on market trends

Goal-based investing: Ideal for long-term goals like child’s education, retirement, or buying a home

Transparency: Track fund NAVs and charges easily online

Key risks to keep in mind:

Market-linked returns: Performance depends on market conditions

Charges involved: Premium allocation, policy admin, and fund management charges

Lock-in period: ULIPs lock-in period is for 5 years, so early liquidity is limited

Your next step: Check which fund combination aligns with your financial goals → Explore Plan Options

Is ULIP a suitable option for long-term financial growth?

When thinking long-term — 10, 15, or even 20 years ahead — ULIPs shine as structured wealth creators. They are designed for those committed to disciplined savings and wealth generation.

Did you know? ULIPs can deliver equity-like returns (10–12%*) over the long term — with insurance cover built-in.

Read on to know why ULIP is great for long-term goals:

Compounding effect: The longer you stay invested, the more your money grows

Auto rebalancing: Some ULIPs offer life stage-based fund allocation that aligns with your age

Rider add-ons: Add critical illness or waiver of premium benefits for added protection

Discipline: Regular premium commitments build consistent savings habits

Payout flexibility: ULIPs offer both lump sum and systematic withdrawal options

Whether you are planning for your child’s future, building a retirement fund, or securing generational wealth — a ULIP helps you align protection and performance.

Use a smart comparison tool before locking in → Choose the most suitable ULIP plan and get quote in just a few clicks!

How ULIPs differ from other investment plans?

ULIPs often get compared with mutual funds, PPFs, and traditional insurance — but each serves a different purpose. ULIPs stand apart by bundling insurance + market exposure, which makes them uniquely positioned for goal-oriented investors.

🔍 “Why not just invest in mutual funds separately?” – Here’s how ULIPs bring extra value.

How ULIPs are different:

ULIPs vs Mutual Funds: ULIPs give you life cover + tax benefits + investment in one plan. MFs only offer market returns.

ULIPs vs Term Insurance: Term plans only offer protection. ULIPs offer both protection and wealth accumulation.

ULIPs vs Traditional Plans: Traditional life insurance offers low returns (4–6%). ULIPs can generate higher returns (up to 10–12%* over the long term).

ULIPs vs PPF/ELSS: ULIPs offer fund switch options, which PPF and ELSS don’t.

Compare ULIPs with other investment products — see where it fits best [ULIP vs Other Plans Calculator]

Key factors to consider before investing in ULIPs

ULIP is not a one-size-fits-all product. Before you invest, understand your personal goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon to make the most out of your plan.

What you must evaluate:

Investment tenure: ULIPs work best when held for 10+ years

Risk profile: Choose equity-heavy funds for high growth or debt-heavy for stability

Charges involved: Understand all associated costs and how they impact returns

Premium amount: Ensure you can commit to it long-term

Life cover: Should match your income and responsibilities

Want clarity on your ideal sum assured and fund mix? → Check plans recommended based on your goals and get quote!

Pro tip: Look for plans offering zero premium allocation charges or loyalty additions to maximise value.

Frequently asked questions

What is ULIP and how does it work?
A ULIP combines life insurance and market-linked investments. A part of your premium secures life cover, while the rest is invested in equity or debt funds.

Is ULIP a good investment option?
Yes, ULIPs are ideal for long-term investors seeking life protection plus returns. They offer tax benefits, flexibility, and structured savings.

Check which ULIP plan matches your goals → [Compare Plans]

What are the pros and cons of investing in ULIP?
  • Pros: Life cover, long-term returns, tax benefits, fund switching.
  • Cons: Lock-in period, market dependency, and charges.
How does ULIP compare to traditional life insurance?
Traditional insurance offers fixed low returns. ULIPs offer market-linked growth, fund flexibility, and long-term wealth creation with life cover.

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Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Limited, Chola MS General Insurance Company Limited, Zurich Kotak General Insurance Co. Limited , Star Health & Allied Insurance Co. Limited, Care Health Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited , Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited and Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limitedunder the IRDAI composite CA registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. Please refer insurer's website for Policy Wordings. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also a distributor of other third-party products from Assistance Services providers such as CPP Assistance Services Pvt. Ltd., Bajaj Finserv Health Ltd. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, sum insured, value added services, etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective insurance company or the respective Assistance service provider company.

Note – While we have made all efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits, etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective product’s sales brochures before concluding their sale.

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