India’s largest government bank, State Bank of India (SBI), has once again revised its fixed deposit (FD) interest rates, offering attractive returns on special tenure deposits. As of April 15, 2025, the 444-day fixed deposit under the “Amrit Kalash” scheme now provides returns of up to 7.65%, making it one of the best options for secure savings with higher yield, especially for senior and super senior citizens.
If you’re wondering whether this is the right time to lock in your savings, or whether SBI’s new rates suit your financial goals, this comprehensive guide will break everything down for you — in the simplest terms, backed by accurate data and expert insights.
SBI 444-Day FD Scheme Now Offers 7.65% Return
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Bank | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Scheme Name | Amrit Kalash FD |
| Tenure | 444 Days |
| Revised Interest Rate | 7.05% (General), 7.55% (Senior Citizens), 7.65% (Super Senior Citizens) |
| Effective From | April 15, 2025 |
| Type | Special Tenure Fixed Deposit |
| Minimum Deposit | ₹1,000 |
| Maximum Deposit | ₹2 crore (Retail) |
| Official Website | sbi.co.in |
If you’re looking for a secure and high-return fixed deposit, SBI’s 444-day Amrit Kalash FD scheme is a standout choice in April 2025. With an attractive interest rate of up to 7.65%, flexible withdrawal options, and easy online access, it ticks the right boxes for both senior citizens and regular investors.
What is the SBI Amrit Kalash 444-Day FD Scheme?
The SBI Amrit Kalash scheme is a special fixed deposit product with a fixed tenure of 444 days. Initially introduced as a limited-time offer, it has been periodically extended due to high demand and investor interest. This FD option offers higher interest rates than standard term deposits, making it especially attractive during times of market volatility and interest rate adjustments by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
With the latest rate revision, SBI offers:
- 7.05% per annum for the general public
- 7.55% per annum for senior citizens (60–79 years)
- 7.65% per annum for super senior citizens (80 years and above)
This updated rate is applicable to both new deposits and renewals and is available across all SBI branches and online banking platforms including YONO SBI and net banking.
see also: Bank of India Cuts Interest Rates and Discontinues 400-Day Special Scheme
Who Should Consider the 444-Day FD Scheme?
This FD product is ideal for:
- Risk-averse investors looking for guaranteed returns.
- Retirees and senior citizens who wish to earn higher interest on their savings without market exposure.
- Young professionals or families aiming to park short- to mid-term surplus funds.
- Individuals planning for near-term goals like education expenses, weddings, or emergency funds.
Since the tenure is relatively short and offers a competitive return, it bridges the gap between liquidity and return efficiency.
How Much Will You Earn? – Real Examples
Let’s take a simple look at how your investment will grow with SBI’s 444-day FD.
Example 1: General Public
- Deposit Amount: ₹1,00,000
- Interest Rate: 7.05% p.a.
- Maturity Amount (approx.): ₹1,08,579
Example 2: Senior Citizen
- Deposit Amount: ₹1,00,000
- Interest Rate: 7.55% p.a.
- Maturity Amount (approx.): ₹1,09,643
Example 3: Super Senior Citizen
- Deposit Amount: ₹1,00,000
- Interest Rate: 7.65% p.a.
- Maturity Amount (approx.): ₹1,09,884
Note: Interest is compounded quarterly. Actual earnings may vary slightly depending on interest payout frequency and tax implications.
How to Open the 444-Day SBI FD
SBI has made it convenient for customers to invest in this special FD scheme via multiple channels.
Step-by-Step Guide
A. Online via YONO App or Net Banking
- Log in to your SBI online banking or YONO SBI app.
- Go to “Fixed Deposits” > “Open FD”.
- Select ‘Amrit Kalash – 444 Days’ tenure.
- Enter the amount and choose interest payout option (monthly, quarterly, or at maturity).
- Confirm and submit.
B. Visiting a Branch
- Carry valid KYC documents (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
- Fill the FD form and mention 444 days as tenure.
- Deposit the desired amount.
- Collect the FD receipt or confirmation email.
Other Important Terms and Conditions
1. Premature Withdrawal
Permitted, but with a penalty of 0.50% on applicable rate if withdrawn before maturity.
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2. Loan Against FD
Loans up to 90% of the FD amount are available, making it a flexible liquidity option without breaking the deposit.
3. TDS Deduction
Interest above ₹40,000 per year (₹50,000 for senior citizens) is subject to TDS as per Income Tax Act.
Submit Form 15G/15H to avoid TDS if eligible.
Why SBI’s FD Rate Revision Matters
SBI’s revised interest rates reflect the current macroeconomic environment where RBI has opted to maintain the repo rate at 6.5%. While some private banks offer marginally higher rates, SBI’s safety, sovereign backing, and trust factor make it a preferred choice for risk-averse investors.
According to RBI’s Monetary Policy, interest rate cycles are expected to remain stable until inflation shows a clear downward trend. Hence, this is a good time to lock in a high-yield FD like SBI’s 444-day option.
see also: Banks Also Reduced FD Rates, Know the New Rates of HDFC, ICICI, and SBI
Other Popular FD Options in April 2025
While SBI’s 444-day scheme stands out, here’s how it compares with other major banks:
| Bank | Highest FD Rate (Retail) | Tenure |
|---|---|---|
| SBI | 7.65% (Super Senior) | 444 Days |
| HDFC Bank | 7.75% (Senior Citizens) | 5 Years |
| ICICI Bank | 7.60% | 2 Years 1 Day |
| Bank of Baroda | 7.25% | 399 Days |
| PNB | 7.30% | 666 Days |
SBI 444-Day FD Scheme Now Offers 7.65% Return FAQs
Q1. Is the SBI 444-day FD available for NRIs?
No, the “Amrit Kalash” scheme is currently not available to NRE/NRO account holders.
Q2. Can I renew this FD after 444 days?
Yes, but the interest rate on renewal will be the prevailing rate at that time, not the original 7.65%.
Q3. What happens if I break the FD early?
You’ll receive the applicable rate for the actual period the FD was held, minus a penalty of 0.50%.
Q4. Is interest paid monthly or only at maturity?
You can choose monthly, quarterly, or maturity payout depending on your needs while opening the FD.
Q5. Is the FD return taxable?
Yes. The interest earned is fully taxable, and TDS is deducted if it exceeds ₹40,000 per year (₹50,000 for seniors).
