Fixed deposits or term deposits are the most popular investment option among Indians, primarily for their low risk and guaranteed returns. These deposits, unlike stocks and mutual funds, offer a fixed return on the principal amount, which remains unaffected by market conditions.
The government of India, through banks, post offices and other financial institutions, offers various fixed deposit schemes for investors. However, the interest rates for such schemes often vary based on the age of the investor, with senior citizens getting higher returns than others.
Post Office Fixed Deposit Interest Rates
Post offices across India offer fixed deposit schemes with varying interest rates based on the tenure of the deposit. The post office fixed deposit rates range from 5.5% per annum for deposits up to 1 year and 6.7% per annum for deposits with a tenure of 5 years. However, senior citizens are eligible for a 0.5% additional interest rate on all Post Office Fixed Deposit, except for the monthly income scheme.
Further, the post office also offers a Senior Citizen Savings Scheme, with an interest rate of 7.4% per annum. The scheme has a lock-in period of 5 years, and an investor can deposit up to INR 15 lakh in the scheme.
Fixed Deposit and Senior Citizen Scheme
Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS) is a government-backed fixed deposit scheme that offers higher interest rates for investors aged above 60 years. The scheme is available at post offices and authorized banks and offers an interest rate of 7.40% per annum. As per the rules, an investor can deposit up to INR 15 lakh in the SCSS scheme, with a lock-in period of 5 years. The interest rate remains constant throughout the tenure, and the returns earned are entirely taxable.
The SCSS scheme was introduced in 2004, with the primary objective of encouraging senior citizens to deposit their savings and earn a regular income post-retirement. The scheme’s returns are currently the highest among all government-backed schemes and offer a safe investment option for senior citizens looking for higher returns.
Short-Term Investment Plans for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens often look for investment options that offer high returns with a short lock-in period. In such cases, fixed deposit schemes with a tenure of 6 months to 1 year are the best option. Banks and financial institutions offer short-term fixed deposit schemes with varying interest rates based on the tenure and the age of the investor.
For instance, SBI offers a short-term fixed deposit scheme called SBI Wecare Deposit for senior citizens with a tenure of 5 years and an interest rate of 6.20%. The scheme is available until September 30, 2021, and offers senior citizens an additional 30 basis points interest rate, making the interest rate applicable to senior citizens 6.50% per annum. Similarly, HDFC Bank offers a Senior Citizen Care deposit scheme with a tenure of 1 year, and the interest rate is 6.25%, which is 0.50% higher than the regular interest rate offered to non-senior citizens.
Conclusion
Fixed deposits continue to be the most popular investment option among Indian investors, primarily because of their guaranteed returns. While there are various fixed deposit schemes available, it is always advisable to choose the one that offers higher returns with a short lock-in period. Senior citizens can now avail of fixed deposit schemes with best fixed deposit rates in India, offering them a safe investment option post-retirement.
The interest rates are often subjective to change and depend on the prevailing market conditions. Therefore, before investing, it is advisable to check the current interest rates offered by the respective bank or post office. Further, it is essential to read the terms and conditions of the fixed deposit scheme and understand the tax implications and penalty clauses, if any.
Investing in the Indian financial market involves significant risks, and it is essential to understand the pros and cons of investing in a particular scheme before making any investment decision. It is always advisable to consult a financial expert or advisor before investing in any financial instrument.
Disclaimer: The above article is for informative purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice. The investor must gauge all the pros and cons of trading in the Indian financial market before making any investment decision. The above interest rates and calculations are subject to change based on the prevailing market conditions.
