Post Office Fixed Deposit (FD) Interest Rate

Post Office Fixed Deposits are also known as National Savings Time Deposits. They are a popular savings option in India. These deposits are backed by the Central Government and offer guaranteed returns. This makes them a low-risk investment suitable for all types of investors. 

The interest rates on these FDs are higher than savings accounts and revised periodically. These rates vary based on the tenure, which can be from 1 to 5 years. Post office FDs are easily accessible at post offices across India. They offer a secure way to grow your savings without having to worry about market fluctuations.

Post Office FD Interest Earned Across Tenures

Here are the interest rates offered on post office FDs across different tenures:

Note: These rates are valid as of August 2024 and are subject to change at India Post’s discretion. 

How is the Post Office FD Maturity Amount Calculated

Calculating the maturity amount of your post office fixed deposit is essential. It helps you understand how much your investment could grow over the chosen tenure. To determine your maturity value, a specific formula is used. It takes into account the following factors: 

Maturity Value = Principal * (1 + Interest Rate / 4) 4*Years

Wherein,

• Principal is the initial amount you invest in the FD

• Interest rate is the annual interest rate offered by the post office for the FD

• 4 represents the quarterly compounding frequency

• Years is the tenure for which the deposit is held

Example Calculation

If you invest ₹50,000 in a Post Office FD for 3 years at an interest rate of 6.8% p.a., the maturity value would be:

• Principal = ₹50,000

• Interest Rate = 6.8% p.a. 

• Tenure = 3 years

Here is a step-by-step calculation for the same:

1.Convert the annual interest rate into the quarterly interest rate:

• Quarterly Interest Rate = Annual Interest Rate / 4

• Quarterly Interest Rate = 00.68 / 4

• Quarterly Interest Rate = 0.017

2.Establish the total number of quarters:

• Total Number of Quarters = 4 * Tenure years

• Total Number of Quarters = 4 * 3

• Total Number of Quarters = 12

3.Apply the maturity value formula:

• Maturity Value = 50,000 * (1 + 00.17) 12

• Maturity Value = 50,000 * 1.2214

• Maturity Value = ₹61,070

The total maturity value of your investment at the end of the tenure would be ₹61,070.

Components of Post Office Fixed Deposit

Here are the components of a Post Office FD that determine your investment's growth:

Deposit Amount

This is the initial amount of money that you will be investing in the FD, also known as the principal amount. The minimum amount you can deposit is ₹1,000, and thereafter, you can deposit in multiples of ₹100. The returns you will receive upon maturity of your FD depend on this amount.

Interest Rate

The interest rate is the percentage of your deposit amount. It determines the interest you will receive over the tenure. The Central Government sets the interest rates for post office FDs. These rates may change periodically. The interest rate you receive depends on the tenure of your FD.

Tenure

The tenure is the duration for which the money is parked in the FD. Post Office FDs are known for their flexible tenures that range from 1 to 5 years. The interest you earn is compounded, so you will earn more interest with a longer tenure.

Maturity Amount

The maturity amount is the total amount of money that you will receive at the end of your FD's tenure. This includes your principal amount and the interest earned. The maturity amount is calculated based on the principal, interest rate, and tenure. Interest is compounded quarterly for higher returns.

Features and Benefits of the Post Office Fixed Deposit Scheme

Here are some benefits of investing in post office FDs you could enjoy: 

Guaranteed Returns

Post office FDs are backed by the Government of India, offering assured returns and low risk. These factors make Post Office FDs a safe investment choice for conservative investors.

Flexible Tenures

A post office FD is available for 1, 2, 3, and 5 years. Investors can choose a tenure that suits their financial goals.

Quarterly Compounding

The interest earned is compounded quarterly. Returns are added to the principal amount every three months.

Tax Benefits

The post office FD with a 5-year tenure qualifies for tax deductions. This is under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. This provides a method to save money on taxes while continuing to earn interest.

Easy Accessibility

A post office FD account can be opened at any post office in India. This makes it an accessible investment for people in both urban and rural areas.

Nomination Facility

Investors can use the nomination facility. This allows them to nominate a beneficiary to receive the deposit amount if the depositor passes away.

Loan Facility

Investors can apply for a loan against their FD in case of a financial emergency. This allows you to access funds without having to break your fixed deposit.

Automatic Renewal

You can automatically renew your post office FD at maturity for the same tenure. This allows your funds to grow at the current interest rate without interruption.

Eligibility Criteria for a Post Office Fixed Deposit

To open a post office fixed deposit account, you must meet these eligibility criteria:

Individuals

• An individual can open a post office fixed deposit account in their own name

• A joint FD account can be opened by up to three adults

• A minor over the age of 10 can open a post office FD account in their own name

NRIs are not eligible to open a Post Office FD account. These accounts are only applicable to resident Indians.

How to Open an FD at a Post Office

Opening a fixed deposit at a post office is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Visit your nearest post office branch to begin the process of opening your FD account

2. Acquire the National Savings Time Deposit (TD) account application form or download it from the official India Post website

3. Fill in the application form with the required personal and nominee details 

4. Enter the amount you would like to deposit and the tenure for your deposit

5. Attach the required documents with your application form, including proof of identity and residence, and recent passport-sized photographs of the account holders

6. Deposit the amount you wish to invest at the post office counter

After completing the formalities, you will receive a passbook. It will list the account number, deposit amount, interest rate, tenure, and maturity date.

Documents Required to Open an FD in Post Office

To open a fixed deposit in a post office you will need to submit a set of documents for verification. Here are some of the essential documents required:

• Identification proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, etc.  

• Address proof: Aadhaar card, electricity bill, telephone bill, ration card, etc. 

• Passport-size photograph

• Account opening form with all the details filled in as require

• Nomination form filled with all the details required

information does not imply BFDL’s partnership with the owner of the Intellectual Property of such products. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the interest amount on an investment of ₹3 Lakhs in the Post Office FD for 5 years?

For a ₹3 Lakh investment in a 5-year FD at an interest rate of 7.50% p.a., the maturity amount will be approximately ₹4.30 Lakhs.

What is the highest interest in the Post Office Term Deposit?

The highest interest rate for a Post Office Term Deposit (TD) is 7.5% p.a. (as of August 2024) for the 5-year tenure. This rate is set by the Government of India and is subject to periodic revision.

Is the Post Office FD safe?

Yes, a Post Office Fixed Deposit (FD) is considered a low-risk investment. It is backed by the Central Government of India. This backing ensures the principal and interest are secure. It makes the deposit a reliable option.

Can I prematurely withdraw funds from a Post Office fixed deposit?

Yes, you can withdraw funds from a Post Office Fixed Deposit early. However, this is only allowed after six months from the date of deposit. If you withdraw before the FD matures, a penalty will apply. The interest rate may also be lower than the original rate.

What is the minimum balance required for a Post Office Fixed Deposit account?

To open a Post Office Fixed Deposit (FD) account, the minimum deposit required is ₹1,000. Additional deposits must be in multiples of ₹100.

Can I open a Post Office fixed deposit account online?

You can open a Post Office Fixed Deposit (FD) account online. This is possible if you already have an existing savings account with the Post Office. However, you must also be registered for e-banking. You can log in to the India Post e-banking portal. Then, select the fixed deposit option and follow the steps to open the FD account.