
If you’re looking for a safe and reliable way to grow your savings, the Post Office Recurring Deposit (RD) scheme is a great choice. With just Rs 800 deposited every month, you can build a sizeable fund over time. Whether you’re a working professional, a homemaker, or even a student, this savings plan is simple to use, backed by the Government of India, and offers guaranteed returns.
Post Office Recurring Deposit
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Scheme Name | Post Office Recurring Deposit (RD) |
Monthly Deposit | Rs 800 |
Interest Rate (as of Q1 FY 2025-26) | 6.7% per annum (compounded quarterly) |
Tenure | 5 years (60 months) |
Total Deposit | Rs 48,000 |
Maturity Amount | Approx. Rs 56,928 |
Total Interest Earned | Rs 8,928 |
Risk Level | Nil (Government-backed) |
Official Link | India Post |
The Post Office Recurring Deposit Scheme is one of the most reliable and affordable savings tools in India today. By depositing just Rs 800 per month, you can create a fund of nearly Rs 57,000 in 5 years. It’s a safe, government-backed scheme that offers better returns than a regular savings account and is ideal for conservative investors. Whether you’re saving for a future goal or just want to cultivate a saving habit, this plan is worth considering.
What is a Post Office Recurring Deposit (RD)?
The Post Office Recurring Deposit is a small savings scheme run by India Post under the Ministry of Finance. It’s designed for individuals who want to build savings through disciplined, monthly contributions. Unlike lump sum investment schemes, an RD allows you to invest a fixed amount every month, making it easy for salaried employees, housewives, and even students to participate.
It offers assured returns and is backed by the Government of India, making it one of the most secure and trusted savings options in the country.
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How Much Will You Earn by Depositing Rs 800 Monthly?
Let’s take a practical example:
- Monthly Deposit: Rs 800
- Interest Rate: 6.7% per annum (compounded quarterly)
- Tenure: 5 years (60 months)
Using the standard RD maturity formula:
M=R×(1+i)n−11−(1+i)−1/3M = R \times \frac{(1 + i)^n – 1}{1 – (1 + i)^{-1/3}}
Where:
- M = Maturity amount
- R = Monthly deposit (Rs 800)
- i = Quarterly interest rate = 6.7% / 4 = 1.675% = 0.01675
- n = Number of quarters = 5 x 4 = 20
Calculation:
Your total deposit over 5 years = Rs 800 x 60 = Rs 48,000
Approximate maturity value = Rs 56,928
Total interest earned = Rs 8,928
This means, by saving just Rs 800 a month, you can grow your money significantly without any risk.
Benefits of the Post Office RD Scheme
1. Guaranteed Returns
Since it’s a government-backed scheme, your returns are guaranteed, unlike mutual funds or stock investments.
2. Affordable Monthly Savings
You can start with just Rs 100, and increase in multiples of Rs 10. This makes it accessible for every Indian household.
3. Compounded Interest
Interest is compounded quarterly, which helps your money grow faster over time.
4. Easy Access and Nationwide Reach
Available at all post offices across India, making it convenient for rural and urban investors.
5. Nomination and Transfer
Nomination facility is available, and accounts can be easily transferred between post offices.
Who Should Invest in This Scheme?
- Students who want to learn disciplined saving
- Salaried employees looking for stable growth
- Housewives managing household finances
- Senior citizens who prefer secure, fixed returns
- Anyone who wants to create a long-term emergency fund
The Post Office RD is ideal for those with a low-risk appetite but a goal to accumulate a decent corpus over time.
How to Open a Post Office RD Account
Opening an RD account in the post office is easy and straightforward:
Step 1: Visit Your Nearest Post Office
Carry your KYC documents (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport-size photo, etc.) and cash or cheque for the initial deposit.
Step 2: Fill the Application Form
Ask for the RD account opening form and fill it with the required details.
Step 3: Submit the Form
Attach the documents and submit them with your deposit amount.
Step 4: Get Your RD Passbook
You’ll receive a passbook where all your monthly deposits and interest will be recorded.
Alternatively, you can also open an RD account online via India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) app if you already have a savings account.
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Taxation on Post Office RD
- Interest earned is fully taxable under “Income from Other Sources.”
- TDS is not deducted by the post office, but you are required to declare the income while filing your ITR.
- No Section 80C benefit is available for investments in Post Office RD.
Other Alternatives to Compare
Scheme | Interest Rate (approx.) | Tenure | Risk Level |
---|---|---|---|
Post Office RD | 6.7% | 5 years | No Risk |
Bank RD (e.g. SBI, HDFC) | 6.5% – 7.1% | 1-10 years | Low Risk |
Mutual Fund SIP | Varies (8%-12%) | No fixed term | Market Risk |
PPF | 7.1% (as of Q1 FY26) | 15 years | No Risk |
Post Office Recurring Deposit FAQs
1. Can I withdraw my money before 5 years?
Yes, premature withdrawal is allowed after 3 years, but you may lose some interest. Consult the post office for exact terms.
2. Can I increase my monthly deposit later?
No, once fixed, the monthly amount cannot be changed. However, you can open a new RD account with a higher amount.
3. What happens if I miss a monthly payment?
You may have to pay a penalty, and repeated defaults can lead to account discontinuation.
4. Is the maturity amount taxable?
Yes, the interest part of your maturity amount is taxable, and must be reported in your ITR.
5. Is nomination facility available?
Yes, nomination can be made at the time of account opening or any time before maturity.