News India Live, Digital Desk: If there is any most reliable investment partner for a middle class family, it is PPF (Public Provident Fund). We all know that in this one has to deposit money for 15 years. But often this question comes in people’s mind that “Brother, 15 years have completed, what to do with this money now? Should I withdraw all the money or take it further?” Believe me, this decision is very important because one small mistake can cause you a loss of lakhs. Today we will understand in very simple language what three options you have after maturity and which one is best for you. Way 1: Withdraw all the money and enjoy (Account Closure) This is the most direct way. If you have completed 15 years and are in dire need of money for your children’s marriage, construction of a house or any major expense, then you can close your account. The entire money (principal + interest) will come to your bank account. And the interesting thing is that there will be no tax of even a single rupee on this money. Way 2: Extension Without Contribution Suppose you do not need money right now, but you are not in a position to invest further. Then this option is for you. If you do not tell anything to the bank or post office after maturity, your account is automatically extended for 5 years. Advantage: You will continue to earn interest on your deposited money. Convenience: You can also withdraw some money once a year as per your need. Disadvantage: If you will not be able to deposit new money in it, then you will not get the benefit of tax exemption (80C). Way 3: Keep depositing money and increase your wealth. (Extension With Contribution)The real ‘magic’ happens here. People who are smart investors choose this path. You can extend your account for a block of 5 years and continue depositing money in it. This is called the ‘power of compounding’. Imagine, not only will you get interest on the huge amount you have deposited in 15 years, you will also get interest on the new money you invest. Condition: For this you have to submit a form called ‘Form H’ in the bank. And you will have to do this work within 1 year of maturity. Benefit: You will also get interest and tax will be saved under section 80C. My Advice: If you do not have a financial emergency, then never close your PPF account. Keep increasing it for 5-5 years. PPF is the only scheme which is ‘safe’ and gives ‘tax-free’ returns. Use it as your old age pension. So friends, do not take decisions in haste. If you have been patient for 15 years, then take the right step only after thinking for 2 minutes!