Published Sep 24, 2025 4 Min Read

Saving for the future is a priority for most individuals, especially when planning for retirement or achieving long-term financial stability. With multiple savings schemes available, such as EPF, PPF, and VPF, selecting the right one can be challenging. Each scheme has its unique features, benefits, and eligibility criteria, making it essential to understand their differences before investing.


For those looking to maximise their savings after withdrawing from these schemes, investing in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit can be a smart move. With guaranteed returns of up to 7.30% p.a., flexible tenures, and a simple online booking process, Bajaj Finance FDs are a reliable option for growing your wealth securely. Explore FDs now!

Difference between EPF vs PPF vs VPF

Each of these provident fund schemes has distinct features that cater to different financial needs. Below is a quick comparison of their primary attributes:



ParameterEPFVPFPPF
Type / NatureEmployer-sponsored, mandatory (for many salaried employees)Voluntary top-up over EPF contributionsGovernment-backed long-term savings scheme
EligibilitySalaried employees in organizations covered under EPF lawAny EPF member (salaried)Any Indian resident (NRIs not eligible to open new PPF accounts) 
ContributionNormally 12% of basic + DA (employee + employer)Any additional amount over EPF — up to 100% of basic + DARs. 500 minimum to Rs. 1,50,000 maximum per year
Interest RateVaries yearly; for FY 2024–25, approved at 8.25 % p.a.Same as EPF rate in that yearVaries quarterly; currently around 7.1 % p.a.
Tax BenefitsContributions, interest, and qualifying withdrawals are exempt (EEE), subject to conditions and 80C limitSame tax treatment as EPF, subject to EPF rulesEEE — contributions up to ₹1.5 lakh under 80C, interest and maturity proceeds tax-free
Withdrawal / Advance / RulesPartial withdrawals / advances allowed under specified conditions (housing, medical, etc). Full withdrawal upon retirement or prolonged unemployment. Early withdrawal (before 5 years of service) may invite tax/TDSFollows EPF rules on withdrawal/advances. However, VPF contributions themselves don’t have separate additional withdrawal rulesPartial withdrawal allowed from year 6 onward (subject to limits, e.g. up to 50% of eligible balance). Premature closure allowed after 5 years under defined conditions (medical, education) with penalty. Full withdrawal after 15 years or on maturity/extension
Maturity / TermNo fixed “maturity” — continues until retirement or exitSame as EPF (i.e. until you leave EPF membership)15 years, extendable in 5-year blocks; withdrawals allowed under extension (with limits) 

Investing in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit after withdrawing your savings can further enhance your financial strategy with secure and attractive returns. Check FD rates

Eligibility criteria for EPF vs PPF vs VPF

Each scheme has specific eligibility requirements:


  • EPF: Mandatory for salaried employees in organisations with 20 or more employees. Both the employee and employer contribute 12% of the employee’s basic salary and dearness allowance (DA).
  • VPF: Available only to salaried employees who already have an EPF account. Employees can voluntarily contribute up to 100% of their basic salary and DA.
  • PPF: Open to all Indian residents, including salaried employees, self-employed individuals, and even students. Contributions range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.

Additionally, reinvesting your savings into a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit can help you grow your funds securely (at a rate of up to 7.30% p.a.), while enjoying guaranteed returns and flexible options tailored to your financial goals. Open your FD today and secure your future..

What factors you must consider before choosing EPF, PPF, or VPF

Employment status

EPF and VPF are exclusive to salaried employees, while PPF is available to all individuals, including self-employed professionals and students.


Contribution limits

EPF requires a mandatory 12% contribution from both employee and employer, while VPF allows up to 100% of the employee’s basic salary and DA. PPF has an annual contribution limit of Rs. 1.5 lakh.


Employer match

EPF contributions are matched by the employer (up to 12%), whereas VPF contributions are voluntary and not matched. PPF does not involve employer contributions.


Withdrawal rules

EPF and VPF allow partial withdrawals for specific purposes, such as medical expenses or home purchases, while PPF permits partial withdrawals only after six years.


Flexibility

PPF offers more flexibility in terms of contribution amounts and frequency, unlike EPF and VPF, where contributions are deducted automatically.


Interest rates

EPF and VPF offer higher interest rates (currently 8.15% p.a.) compared to PPF (7.1% p.a.).


Risk profile

All three schemes are low-risk and backed by the government, making them ideal for conservative investors.


Long-term financial goals

EPF and VPF are designed for retirement savings, while PPF can be used for both retirement and other long-term goals due to its 15-year lock-in period.


Tax implications

All three schemes fall under the EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt) category, making contributions, interest earned, and maturity proceeds tax-free under Section 80C.


To grow your savings further after these investments, consider a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit, offering guaranteed returns and flexible tenures. Learn more about Bajaj Finance FD.

What are the benefits of investing in EPF, PPF, and VPF?

Tax benefits

All three schemes offer tax deductions under Section 80C, making them attractive for tax-saving purposes.

 

Long-term savings

EPF, VPF, and PPF encourage disciplined, long-term savings, ensuring financial security in the future.

 

Secure and government-backed

These schemes are backed by the government, making them low-risk and reliable investment options.

 

Compounding benefits

The power of compounding ensures that your savings grow significantly over time, especially in schemes like PPF with a 15-year lock-in period.

 

Retirement planning

EPF and VPF are tailored for retirement savings, offering a steady corpus for your post-retirement needs.

 

Employee-employer contributions

EPF contributions are matched by the employer, effectively doubling the savings for salaried employees.

 

Flexibility (PPF and VPF)

PPF allows flexible contributions, while VPF gives employees the option to increase their savings voluntarily.


Why Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit is a smart choice for your savings?

After withdrawing your funds from EPF, VPF, or PPF, reinvesting them in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit can help you achieve higher returns while maintaining financial security. Here are some key features of Bajaj Finance FDs:

  • Fixed returns: Guaranteed returns of up to 7.30% p.a. for senior citizens, unaffected by market fluctuations.
  • Flexible tenure: Choose a tenure ranging from 12 to 60 months based on your financial goals.
  • Low initial deposit: Start with a minimum deposit of just Rs. 15,000.
  • Convenient booking process: Open an FD online in just a few clicks by verifying your mobile number, uploading PAN and KYC documents, and completing the payment.
  • Additional benefits:
    • Auto-renewal option
    • Nomination facility
    • Loan against FD (up to 75% of the FD value)

Conclusion

Choosing between EPF, PPF, and VPF depends on your employment status, financial goals, and risk appetite. While EPF and VPF are ideal for salaried employees, PPF offers flexibility and accessibility to all individuals. Regardless of your choice, these schemes are excellent for building a secure financial future.


Once you withdraw your funds, reinvesting them in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit can help you grow your savings further. With guaranteed returns, flexible tenures, and a hassle-free online booking process, Bajaj Finance FDs are a reliable option for achieving your long-term financial goals. Start your FD journey today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better VPF or EPF?

VPF allows employees to contribute voluntarily beyond the mandatory 12% EPF contribution, offering higher savings potential. However, EPF includes employer contributions, making it more beneficial overall.

Which is better PPF or EPF?

EPF offers higher interest rates and employer contributions, making it ideal for salaried employees. PPF, on the other hand, is accessible to all individuals and offers more flexibility.

Can I have both an EPF and vpf account?

Yes, VPF is an extension of EPF, allowing salaried employees to make additional voluntary contributions.

What is the minimum investment amount for a Bajaj Finance FD?

You can start a Bajaj Finance FD with as low as Rs. 15,000. Check the latest rates and start your FD journey today. 

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Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.