
For most Indians, financial success is not about becoming a millionaire overnight. It is about having enough money to achieve life's important goals without constantly worrying about finances
. As education costs, healthcare expenses and living costs continue to rise, it is becoming increasingly important to build savings and investments at every stage of life. While everyone's journey is different, there are some broad financial milestones that can help middle-class and upper-middle-class families stay on track.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Kanika Bali, founder of The Tax Planet, shares the savings targets to aim for by 30, 40 and 50.
Suggested savings and investments: 1.5 to 2.5 times your annual income (approximately ₹22 lakh to ₹35 lakh).
Suggested savings and investments: 3 to 5 times your annual income (approximately ₹60 lakh to ₹1.5 crore).
Key goals: Children's higher education, marriage expenses, parental healthcare, travel, and retirement.
Suggested savings and investments: 6 to 10 times your annual income (approximately ₹2 crore to ₹5 crore or more).
“By 50, financial responsibilities often reach their peak. University education, weddings, and rising healthcare costs can place significant demands on family finances,” said Kanika. This is also the stage when many people want to fulfil personal dreams such as travel, pursuing hobbies, or spending more time with family.
A strong investment portfolio can help meet these goals without compromising retirement plans. Ideally, major loans should be substantially reduced or fully repaid by this stage.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice.
Anukriti Srivastava thrives at the intersection of words and voice, where journalism meets storytelling. A digital editor and journalist with over 5 years of experience, she has written across lifestyle, women issues, relationships, entertainment, fashion, and travel. She did her Masters in Broadcast Journalism and has published more than 500+ lifestyle content pieces across platforms. As a former Sub-Editor at HerZindagi, she produced engaging digital content, interviews, and event coverage for a wide audience. She has also contributed as a Webstory Producer with Travel + Leisure, transforming travel experiences into immersive stories for readers who love exploring the world. Beyond writing, Anukriti’s storytelling extends to the microphone. As a voice-over artist, her warm and expressive voice has brought scripts to life across audio platforms, turning simple words into immersive experiences. Her work reflects a deep interest in people, culture, and everyday stories that resonate with readers and listeners alike. She enjoys crafting content that informs, inspires, and sparks curiosity. Away from screens and studios, you’ll find her reading self-help books, listening to music, getting lost in romantic novels, and playing the guitar for a creative reset. For Anukriti, storytelling isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of seeing and sharing the world.Read More