Category: Retirement & Pension | Author: V. S. Reddy (25+ Yrs Experience) | Last Reviewed: 2026-10-20
In-depth comparison of LIC New Jeevan Shanti (Plan 858) vs LIC Jeevan Utsav (Plan 871). Compare single premium annuities vs limited pay whole life income.
### The Dilemma: Lump Sum vs Annual Savings
When planning for retirement, investors usually face two situations: either they have a lump sum corpus ready right now (from PF, gratuity, voluntary retirement, or selling a property), or they are currently earning an active salary and want to save systematically for the next 5 to 15 years.
Quick Comparison Matrix
- **Premium Payment:** Jeevan Shanti requires a **Single Lump Sum Premium**; Jeevan Utsav is a **Limited Annual Pay** (5 to 16 years).
- **Payout Type:** Jeevan Shanti pays an Annuity (fixed rate based on age & deferment); Jeevan Utsav pays a contractual **10% of Sum Assured** annually.
- **Entry Age:** Jeevan Shanti starts from age 30 up to 79; Jeevan Utsav starts from age 90 days up to 65.
- **Joint Life Option:** Available in Jeevan Shanti (covers spouse/child); Jeevan Utsav is primarily Single Life.
- **Taxation of Payout:** Jeevan Shanti annuity is taxed as per income slab; Jeevan Utsav payout is tax-exempt under Section 10(10D) if premium is within limits.
When to Choose LIC New Jeevan Shanti
Choose Jeevan Shanti (Plan 858) if:
1. You have already retired or are within 1 to 5 years of retirement.
2. You hold a lump sum of ₹10 Lakhs to ₹1 Crore+ and want to guarantee exact monthly or yearly pensions.
3. You want joint-life cover so that after your demise, your spouse continues to draw 100% of the pension without paperwork.
When to Choose LIC Jeevan Utsav
Choose Jeevan Utsav (Plan 871) if:
1. You are in your 30s, 40s, or 50s with ongoing active business or salary income.
2. You want a short paying term (e.g. 5 or 10 years) and then relax knowing 10% guaranteed income will flow for life.
3. You prioritize tax-free income under Section 10(10D).