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ELSS Mutual Funds: Fund Performance, NAV, Returns & Schemes 2026

In 2026, Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) continue to offer tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C for investors opting for the old tax regime. With a three-year lock-in period and equity-market exposure, these funds combine tax-saving benefits with long-term growth potential. As of March 2026, open-ended ELSS funds managed approximately ₹2.17 lakh cr in assets. Here, we explore ELSS funds, their returns, risks and key factors to consider.

Top ELSS Mutual Funds - Best Funds, Benefits & Risks

Top ELSS Mutual Funds in India (2025)

Here's the list of top ELSS mutual funds in India (2025).

Created by

@82600328260032

Showing 1 - 20 of 52 results

last updated at 8:00 AM IST 
NameMFs (52)↓↓Sub CategorySub Category↓↓PlanPlan↓↓AUMAUM↓↓NAVNAV↓↓Absolute Returns - 3MAbsolute Ret. - 3M↓↓Absolute Returns - 1YAbsolute Ret. - 1Y↓↓CAGR 3YCAGR 3Y↓↓Base Exp. RatioBase Exp. Ratio↓↓Exit LoadExit Load↓↓VolatilityVolatility↓
1.Axis ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Axis ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
32,667.38
32,667.38
103.50
103.50
-4.68
-4.68
-7.47
-7.47
9.24
9.24
0.74
0.74
-
-
14.38
14.38
2.SBI ELSS Tax Saver Fund
SBI ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
30,026.63
30,026.63
433.60
433.60
-7.81
-7.81
-10.42
-10.42
12.35
12.35
0.82
0.82
-
-
13.16
13.16
3.Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
24,624.65
24,624.65
52.88
52.88
-6.52
-6.52
-8.31
-8.31
10.90
10.90
0.59
0.59
-
-
14.65
14.65
4.DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund
DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
15,569.20
15,569.20
145.76
145.76
-4.93
-4.93
-7.93
-7.93
12.36
12.36
0.68
0.68
-
-
14.19
14.19
5.HDFC ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
HDFC ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
14,948.74
14,948.74
1,403.70
1,403.70
-4.63
-4.63
-11.56
-11.56
11.72
11.72
0.97
0.97
-
-
13.28
13.28
6.Nippon India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Nippon India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
14,096.24
14,096.24
134.75
134.75
-5.77
-5.77
-6.98
-6.98
11.09
11.09
0.88
0.88
-
-
13.98
13.98
7.Aditya Birla SL ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Aditya Birla SL ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
13,559.01
13,559.01
63.77
63.77
-7.45
-7.45
-9.16
-9.16
9.70
9.70
0.85
0.85
-
-
13.90
13.90
8.ICICI Pru ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
ICICI Pru ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
13,498.47
13,498.47
968.55
968.55
-6.02
-6.02
-9.94
-9.94
9.56
9.56
0.96
0.96
-
-
13.64
13.64
9.Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
13,103.36
13,103.36
426.30
426.30
-6.16
-6.16
0.06
0.06
13.50
13.50
0.67
0.67
-
-
15.88
15.88
10.Canara Rob ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Canara Rob ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
8,167.22
8,167.22
188.02
188.02
-5.62
-5.62
-6.62
-6.62
10.52
10.52
0.55
0.55
-
-
14.17
14.17
11.Bandhan ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Bandhan ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
6,596.36
6,596.36
170.38
170.38
-3.91
-3.91
-5.45
-5.45
9.09
9.09
0.63
0.63
-
-
12.72
12.72
12.Kotak ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Kotak ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
6,070.55
6,070.55
129.30
129.30
-5.54
-5.54
-6.56
-6.56
9.62
9.62
0.63
0.63
-
-
14.60
14.60
13.Franklin India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Franklin India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
5,838.91
5,838.91
1,495.43
1,495.43
-5.62
-5.62
-11.14
-11.14
9.24
9.24
0.90
0.90
-
-
13.78
13.78
14.Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
5,400.57
5,400.57
30.57
30.57
-3.75
-3.75
-13.18
-13.18
8.07
8.07
0.54
0.54
-
-
11.20
11.20
15.Motilal Oswal ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Motilal Oswal ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
4,889.61
4,889.61
59.22
59.22
-6.24
-6.24
-2.61
-2.61
18.17
18.17
0.60
0.60
-
-
18.45
18.45
16.Tata ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Tata ELSS-Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
4,426.54
4,426.54
49.80
49.80
-6.45
-6.45
-4.83
-4.83
11.03
11.03
0.68
0.68
-
-
14.81
14.81
17.HSBC ELSS Tax saver Fund
HSBC ELSS Tax saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
3,973.53
3,973.53
143.05
143.05
-5.81
-5.81
-4.90
-4.90
14.15
14.15
0.97
0.97
-
-
16.00
16.00
18.UTI ELSS Tax Saver Fund
UTI ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
3,482.37
3,482.37
211.39
211.39
-6.15
-6.15
-10.74
-10.74
7.03
7.03
0.95
0.95
-
-
13.60
13.60
19.Invesco India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Invesco India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
2,597.52
2,597.52
139.09
139.09
-5.02
-5.02
-9.32
-9.32
10.26
10.26
0.75
0.75
-
-
15.47
15.47
20.Bank of India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Bank of India ELSS Tax Saver Fund
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Growth
Growth
1,366.45
1,366.45
180.44
180.44
-5.86
-5.86
-4.11
-4.11
11.35
11.35
0.79
0.79
-
-
13.99
13.99
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Analyse ELSS Mutual Funds Further

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Disclaimer: Please note that the above table is for informational purposes only, and is not recommendatory. Please do your own research or consult your financial advisor before investing. The data is derived from Tickertape Mutual Fund Screener and is subject to real-time updates.

Selection criteria: Category: Equity | Sub-category: Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) | AUM: Sorted from Highest to Lowest

What are ELSS Mutual Funds?

ELSS Mutual Funds (Equity Linked Savings Schemes) are mutual funds that primarily invest in equity and equity-related securities. They allow investors to save tax under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year. These funds have a 3-year lock-in period, the shortest among tax-saving options. The returns depend on market performance since they invest in equities. ELSS funds are often chosen by individuals who want both tax benefits and long-term capital appreciation.

Overview of ELSS Mutual Funds

Axis ELSS Tax Saver Fund

The Axis ELSS Tax Saver Fund primarily invests in equities and equity-related securities to achieve long-term capital appreciation. It comes with a mandatory three-year lock-in period and offers tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

SBI ELSS Tax Saver Fund

SBI ELSS Tax Saver Fund focuses on generating long-term capital growth through a diversified equity portfolio. It invests across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, providing tax benefits under Section 80C with a three-year lock-in period.

Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund

Mirae Asset ELSS Tax Saver Fund allocates most of its portfolio to equities across market caps. It aims to generate long-term wealth while offering tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The fund has a three-year lock-in period as per ELSS regulations.

DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund

DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund combines equity market participation with tax savings under Section 80C. It invests in a diversified mix of companies across sectors and has a mandatory three-year lock-in period for all investments.

HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund

HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund aims for long-term capital appreciation through diversified equity investments. It offers tax benefits under Section 80C and has a three-year lock-in period, primarily investing in large and well-established companies across various sectors.

How to Invest in ELSS Funds?

Here’s how you can identify and invest in top ELSS mutual funds with Tickertape Mutual Fund Screener -

  1. Launch Tickertape Mutual Fund Screener.
  2. Under the Category, search for “Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)”.
  3. Sort out the top energy mutual funds based on over 50 fundamental and technical filters.
  4. After identifying the ELSS mutual fund that aligns with your investment thesis, click on “Place Order” to invest in the mutual fund.

With Tickertape Mutual Fund Screener, you can invest via ‘lumpsum’ or start a ‘SIP’ in ELSS Mutual Funds. Moreover, by connecting your portfolio, you can do a deep analysis of your portfolio and assess its performance.

Taxation of ELSS Mutual Funds

ELSS mutual funds offer tax benefits under Section 80C, providing deductions on investments up to ₹1.5 lakh. However, understanding their tax treatment, including long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax, is crucial for investors to manage returns effectively

Taxation Aspect Details
Tax Deduction Investments in ELSS are eligible for a tax deduction under **Section 80C** up to ₹1.5 lakh per financial year.
Lock-in Period ELSS funds have a **3-year lock-in period** from the date of investment, after which investments can be redeemed.
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) After 3 years, gains are taxed as LTCG. Gains up to ₹1.25 lakh per financial year are **exempt** from tax, and any amount above that is taxed at **12.5%**.
Indexation Benefit **No indexation benefit** is available for LTCG on ELSS funds.

How do ELSS Mutual Funds Work?

An Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) is the only type of mutual fund that offers tax benefits. They are diversified equity funds. They invest in tax-saving equity funds and equity-linked instruments. ELSS mutual funds for tax saving have a mandatory 3-year lock-in period, after which they become open-ended schemes. Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, allows you to claim a tax deduction on the amount that you invest in ELSS. The maximum deduction you can claim is ₹1,50,000 per year, subject to the section's overall limit.



How to Choose ELSS Mutual Funds for Investment?

Assessing Risk Appetite

ELSS mutual funds carry different levels of market exposure. Funds that invest in large-cap stocks show lower volatility. Funds that invest in mid- or small-cap stocks involve higher risk and fluctuate more in value.

Evaluating Consistent Performance

Investors review the historical performance of ELSS mutual funds over five to ten years to see how they perform in different market conditions. Funds that deliver consistent returns and stay stable during downturns show strong fund management.

Fund Manager’s Expertise

The fund manager’s experience and approach influence how the portfolio performs in various market cycles. Investors check the manager’s track record to understand their style and results in different market phases.

Expense Ratio

The expense ratio shows the annual management cost of the fund. Since it affects returns directly, comparing expense ratios across funds helps investors make better investment decisions.

Tax Efficiency

ELSS funds qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C. The way each fund manages capital gains can differ. Understanding these differences helps investors measure post-tax efficiency.

SIP Facility

Many ELSS funds allow regular investments through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). This method promotes disciplined investing and reduces the impact of market volatility through consistent contributions.

Features of ELSS Mutual Funds

Tax-Saving Structure

ELSS funds offer eligible investors deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C of the old tax regime. Schemes such as HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund combine this benefit with equity-market exposure.

Three-Year Lock-In

ELSS schemes have a mandatory three-year lock-in period. In HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund, each investment remains locked for three years from allotment, meaning individual SIP instalments have separate withdrawal eligibility dates.

Equity Allocation

ELSS schemes must invest at least 80% of their assets in equity and equity-related instruments. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund follows this requirement while investing across companies under its investment strategy.

Investment Options

ELSS funds generally allow lump-sum and systematic investments. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund listed a ₹500 minimum initial investment and ₹1,000 minimum SIP in September 2026, providing different contribution options for investors.

Who Can Consider Investing in ELSS Mutual Funds?

Salaried individuals

Those who wish to utilise Section 80C deductions can invest in ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme) mutual funds. Investments up to ₹1.5 lakh per year qualify for tax benefits under this section.

Long-term investors

ELSS mutual funds are suitable for investors who can stay invested for at least three years, as the scheme has a mandatory lock-in period.

First-time equity participants

ELSS funds enable individuals to gain exposure to equity within a regulated framework that combines market participation with tax-saving benefits.

Market-aware investors

Since ELSS funds primarily invest in equities, they are suitable for individuals who understand that short-term returns can fluctuate with market conditions.

Goal-oriented investors

ELSS investments can be an integral part of a long-term wealth-building plan, particularly for financial goals with a time frame of three years or more.

Advantages of Investing in ELSS Mutual Funds

Tax Deductions

ELSS investments can reduce taxable income for eligible taxpayers using the old regime. Contributions to schemes such as Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund count towards the overall ₹1.5 lakh annual Section 80C limit.

Growth Potential

ELSS funds provide exposure to equity-market growth alongside tax benefits. HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund managed ₹15,991.78 cr in August 2026, investing predominantly in equities whose performance depends on underlying business fundamentals.

Portfolio Diversification

ELSS funds can hold companies across multiple industries. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund's September 2026 portfolio included banking, energy, automobiles and consumer businesses, spreading investments across companies with different earnings drivers.

Professional Management

Actively managed ELSS schemes use fund managers to select securities and adjust portfolio allocations. HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund appointed Amar Kalkundrikar in December 2025, bringing over 24 years of professional experience.

No Additional Exit Load

ELSS funds generally have no exit load because investments already carry a statutory three-year lock-in. HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund reported nil exit load in July 2026, although market and tax risks remain.

Risks of Investing in ELSS Mutual Funds

Market Volatility

ELSS funds remain exposed to equity-market fluctuations despite their tax-saving benefits. HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund carried a Very High Riskometer classification in August 2026, indicating substantial potential for investment-value fluctuations.

Sector Concentration

HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund allocated approximately 34.6% to banking and financial services in July 2026. Such exposure makes its performance sensitive to banking-sector developments, credit demand, interest rates and financial-sector valuations.

Liquidity Restrictions

ELSS investments cannot be redeemed during their mandatory three-year lock-in. Unlike other open-ended equity funds, Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund restricts withdrawals during this period, even when investors face unexpected financial requirements.

Stock Concentration

Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund held approximately 64.72% of its portfolio in its ten largest holdings in July 2026. Significant individual positions can increase sensitivity to company-specific earnings disappointments and valuation corrections.

Performance Uncertainty

ELSS returns are not guaranteed, even after the three-year lock-in. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund's direct plan recorded a negative 9.61% one-year return in September 2026, illustrating potential short-term losses.

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Factors to Consider Before Investing in ELSS Mutual Funds

Tax Regime

Section 80C deductions are available under the old tax regime, not the new regime. Investors should examine their applicable tax regime before evaluating the tax-saving benefits of HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund.

Interest Rate Trends

Changes in RBI policy influence borrowing costs, credit demand and equity valuations. These developments matter for HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund, whose August 2026 portfolio included significant investments in major Indian banks.

Portfolio Strategy

ELSS schemes can follow different stock-selection approaches. Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund allocated about 20% to energy in July 2026, making commodity prices, electricity demand, and energy-sector profitability key performance drivers.

Expense Ratio

Plan selection affects investment costs. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund charged 0.65% for its direct plan and 1.83% for its regular plan in September 2026, creating different ongoing expense structures.

Benchmark Performance

Compare ELSS funds against appropriate equity benchmarks over multiple periods. Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver Fund tracks performance against the Nifty 500 TRI, providing context for evaluating its active investment strategy.

Investment Horizon

The statutory three-year lock-in does not eliminate equity-market volatility. HDFC ELSS Tax Saver Fund's Very High Riskometer classification highlights why investors should distinguish withdrawal eligibility from their actual investment time horizon.

Conclusion

ELSS mutual funds are tax-saving and have a 3-year lock-in period. Although high-growth ELSS funds can deliver high returns, they are considered high-risk investments. Save time and effort by using Tickertape’s Mutual Fund Screener to find the best mutual fund based on your risk tolerance and investment preferences!

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Frequently Asked Questions About ELSS Mutual Funds

  1. Why should you invest in ELSS mutual funds?

    An ELSS mutual fund combines equity-market exposure with tax-saving benefits. Eligible investments qualify for deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C of the old tax regime, alongside potential long-term capital appreciation.

  2. What are the risks of ELSS mutual funds?

    ELSS tax saving mutual funds invest predominantly in equities, exposing them to stock-market volatility, sector concentration and company-specific risks. Returns are not guaranteed, and the mandatory three-year lock-in restricts withdrawals during market downturns.

  3. What is ELSS in a mutual fund?

    For investors exploring what is ELSS mutual fund, an Equity Linked Savings Scheme invests at least 80% of its assets in equity and equity-related instruments. It offers eligible tax deductions under Section 80C and has a mandatory three-year lock-in period.

  4. Which ELSS mutual fund is best?

    Investors comparing an ELSS tax saver fund can examine AUM, historical returns, portfolio composition and expense ratios:\

    \
      \ \
    1. \ITI ELSS Tax Saver Fund\\
      2. \
    2. \Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund\\
      3. \

    3. Is ELSS tax-free after 3 years?

      ELSS investments are not entirely tax-free after three years. Like other equity-oriented tax saving mutual funds, long-term capital gains exceeding ₹1.25 lakh in a financial year are generally taxed at 12.5%, subject to applicable rules.

    4. What is better, SIP or ELSS?

      SIP is an investment method, while ELSS is a mutual fund category. Investors can use SIPs to invest regularly in ELSS and other tax saving schemes. Each ELSS SIP instalment has a separate three-year lock-in period.

    5. Is ELSS risk-free?

      An ELSS mutual fund is not risk-free because it invests predominantly in equities. Its NAV fluctuates with stock-market movements, company earnings and sector performance. The three-year lock-in does not protect investors against potential losses.

    6. Who should invest in ELSS funds?

      Investors evaluating an ELSS tax saver fund can consider its Section 80C benefits under the old tax regime, equity exposure and mandatory lock-in. Suitability depends on individual financial goals, risk tolerance and investment horizon.

    7. What is the exposure for ELSS funds?

      ELSS tax saving mutual funds must invest at least 80% of their assets in equity and equity-related instruments. Depending on the scheme's strategy, portfolios may include large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap companies across multiple industries.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The content of the article including securities/investment products mentioned if any, should not in any manner be construed as an investment advice, recommendation, offer, solicitation to buy/hold/sell any securities/investment products. The securities quoted if any, are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Please consult a SEBI-registered financial advisor before investing.