The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme (MSSC), one of India Post’s most popular and beneficial savings plans for women and girls, is set to close on 31st March 2025. If you’ve been considering investing in a safe, government-backed scheme with attractive 7.5% interest returns, now is the time to act!
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme — including eligibility, benefits, investment limits, withdrawal rules, and how you can quickly open an account before the deadline. Whether you’re a parent planning your daughter’s future, a working woman looking for a secure savings option, or a financial advisor, this guide has got you covered!
Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme (MSSC)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) |
| Interest Rate | 7.5% per annum, compounded quarterly |
| Minimum Investment | ₹1,000 |
| Maximum Investment | ₹2,00,000 |
| Eligibility | Available to women and girl children, Indian citizens only |
| Tenure | 2 years |
| Partial Withdrawal Allowed | Up to 40% after 1 year |
| Scheme Validity | Last date to invest: 31st March 2025 |
| Professional Insight | Ideal for women seeking safe, high-interest short-term savings. Financial advisors recommend it for diversification and women empowerment goals. |
If you’re looking for a safe, short-term, high-return savings option exclusively for women, the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme is a golden opportunity that ends on March 31, 2025. Don’t miss out! With guaranteed 7.5% annual returns, government backing, and flexibility for partial withdrawals, this scheme is ideal for women of all ages and financial backgrounds.
What is the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme?
Introduced in the Union Budget 2023-24, the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme is a government-backed, one-time small savings scheme exclusively designed for women and girl children in India. The scheme encourages financial independence by offering an assured return of 7.5% per annum, making it one of the best fixed-return investments currently available.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Assured Returns: Unlike market-linked options like mutual funds or stocks, your returns are fixed and secured by the Government of India.
- Short Tenure: The scheme matures in just 2 years, making it ideal for short-term financial goals.
- Partial Withdrawal Flexibility: Need funds for an emergency or a planned expense? You can withdraw up to 40% after one year.
see also: How Much Interest Will You Get on ₹1,00,000?
Why is the MSSC Closing After March 2025?
The MSSC was initially launched as a limited-period scheme, valid until 31st March 2025. It was part of the government’s broader focus on women empowerment, financial inclusion, and promoting savings habits among women.
There is currently no official notification about an extension beyond this date. If you miss this deadline, you may lose out on one of the safest investment options offering high interest with minimal risk.
Who is Eligible for the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme?
Eligibility is simple and inclusive:
- Any Indian woman or girl child is eligible.
- Guardians/parents can open the account on behalf of minor girl children.
- There are no age restrictions for adult women.
This scheme is especially popular among parents planning their daughters’ future, working women saving for short-term goals, and financial advisors looking for secure options for their clients.
Benefits of Investing in MSSC
Let’s quickly run through why this scheme is worth considering:
High Interest Rate
The 7.5% per annum interest, compounded quarterly, is significantly higher than most regular savings accounts, FDs, and PPF returns in current market conditions.
Tax Advantage
While the scheme does not offer specific tax exemptions under Section 80C, the interest income is taxable as per individual slab. However, compared to other taxable instruments, its risk-free nature and guaranteed returns outweigh the taxability factor for many investors.
Partial Withdrawal Option
You’re allowed to withdraw up to 40% of the balance after 12 months, providing much-needed liquidity without breaking the entire deposit.
Government Guarantee
Being a Government of India scheme, there’s zero risk of default.
How to Open a Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Account: Step-by-Step Guide
Opening an MSSC account is simple and can be done in a few easy steps:
Step 1: Visit Nearest Post Office/Bank Branch
Currently, the scheme is available through:
- Post Offices
- Select Public Sector Banks authorized by the government
Step 2: Fill Account Opening Form
Request the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Account Opening Form and fill in details:
- Name
- Address
- Guardian’s details (if minor)
- Investment amount
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Carry the following:
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
- PAN Card
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Guardian’s ID proof (for minors)
Step 4: Deposit Money
- Minimum Deposit: ₹1,000
- Maximum Deposit: ₹2,00,000 (can be split across multiple accounts, but total investment capped at ₹2 lakh per individual)
You can deposit via cash, cheque, or demand draft.
Step 5: Receive Certificate
Once processed, you’ll receive the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate, which will mention deposit amount, maturity date, and applicable interest rate.
How Much Will You Earn?
Let’s say you invest ₹2,00,000 on March 25, 2025 (before deadline):
- Interest Rate = 7.5% compounded quarterly
- Tenure = 2 years
Maturity Value = ₹2,00,000 + approx ₹31,125 interest = ₹2,31,125
That’s an effortless return of ₹31,125 in just 2 years with no market risk!
Why Professionals Recommend MSSC
- Financial advisors suggest MSSC as a perfect fit for clients looking for low-risk, short-term, yet high-return options.
- Parents use it as a trustworthy savings tool for their daughters’ education or marriage plans.
- Women entrepreneurs also leverage it for business savings due to its assured returns and flexibility.
see also: Where Will Senior Citizens Get the Highest Returns on FD in March? Check the List
Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme FAQs
1. What is the last date to invest in Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme?
The last date to open a new account under this scheme is 31st March 2025.
2. Can NRIs invest in the MSSC scheme?
No. Only resident Indian women and girl children are eligible.
3. Is premature closure allowed?
Premature closure is allowed in specific cases like:
- Death of account holder
- Life-threatening illness
- Extreme compassionate grounds (with approval)
4. Can I open multiple MSSC accounts?
Yes, but the maximum cumulative investment limit is ₹2 lakh per individual.
5. Is the interest income taxable?
Yes, interest earned under MSSC is taxable as per your income tax slab.
