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What is a Post Office Time Deposit Scheme?

A Post Office Time Deposit Scheme is a savings scheme designed by the India Post. Under this scheme, you can deposit a lump sum amount for a fixed tenure. It works similarly to a bank fixed deposit but is backed by the government, making it a secure investment option.

When you invest in a Post Office Time Deposit, you choose a tenure of 1, 2, 3, or 5 years. You earn interest at a fixed rate, which is credited annually. The interest rates are revised every quarter by the government.

This scheme is ideal if you’re looking for a safe investment option with guaranteed income. You can also claim tax benefits under Section 80C if you opt for a 5-year deposit. Whether you want to save for a specific goal or park your money safely, the Post Office Time Deposit Scheme can be a good choice.

Features of the Post Office Time Deposit Scheme

The key features of the post office time deposit scheme are listed below: 

  • Flexible Tenure:

    You can choose a tenure of 1, 2, 3, or 5 years based on your financial goals.

  • Fixed Interest Rates:

    The interest rates are fixed at the time of investment and remain unchanged throughout the tenure.

  • Guaranteed Income:

    Your earnings are secure as the scheme is backed by the government.

  • Annual Interest Payout:

    Interest is calculated annually and credited to your savings account.

  • Tax Benefits:

    Section 80C of the Income Tax Act offers deductions on eligible investments. If you invest in the five-year post office time deposit scheme, you can claim deductions under this section. 

  • Single and Joint Accounts:

    You can open the account individually or jointly with up to three people.

  • Transfer Facility:

    You can transfer your Post Office Time Deposit from one post office to another.

  • Nomination Facility:

    You can nominate a beneficiary at the time of opening the account.

  • Premature Withdrawal:

    Premature withdrawal is allowed, but only after six months from the date of deposit. You may incur a penalty.

Current Interest Rates for Post Office Time Deposits

Tenure

Interest Rate (per annum)*

1 Year

6.9%

2 Years

7.0%

3 Years

7.1%

5 Years

7.5%

*As on 16th May 2025

The interest rates for the Post Office Time Deposit Scheme are revised every quarter by the government. The rates mentioned above are effective from the latest quarter. The 5-year deposit offers the highest interest rate and is also eligible for Section 80C tax benefits.

If you are looking to compare interest rates, you can also use a GST Calculator to calculate the applicable taxes on your earnings.

Eligibility Criteria for Opening a Post Office Time Deposit Account

You are eligible to open a post office time deposit scheme account if you fall under any of the following categories: 

  • Individuals:

    You can open a Post Office Time Deposit Account if you are an Indian citizen.

  • Joint Account:

    You can open a joint account with up to three individuals.

  • Minors:

    A guardian can open the account on behalf of a minor. Once the minor turns 18, the account can be transferred to their name.

  • Trusts and Institutions:

    Certain trusts and institutions can also open accounts under the Post Office Time Deposit scheme.

  • NRIs:

    Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are not eligible to open this account.

Before opening the account, make sure you have valid identification and address proof, such as your Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID.

How to Open a Post Office Time Deposit Account?

If you want to invest in a Post Office Time Deposit Scheme, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1. Visit the Nearest Post Office:

Go to your nearest post office with the required documents, including your ID proof, address proof, and passport-sized photographs.

Step 2. Fill Out the Application Form:

Ask for the Post Office Time Deposit application form and fill it out with your personal and financial details.

Step 3. Choose the Tenure:

Select the tenure you want to invest in — 1, 2, 3, or 5 years. The interest rate will depend on the tenure you choose.

Step 4. Deposit the Amount:

Submit the deposit amount in cash, cheque, or demand draft. The minimum investment amount is ₹1,000, and there is no maximum limit.

Step 5. Receive the Passbook:

After your payment is processed, you will receive a passbook containing details of your Post Office Time Deposit account, such as the deposit amount, interest rate, and maturity date.

Step 6. Online Application (Optional):

If your post office is linked with India Post’s online banking system, you can also open the account online through the official portal.

Keep the passbook safe as it will be required for withdrawals, renewals, and interest payments.

Tax Benefits and Implications of Post Office Time Deposits

If you choose the Post Office Time Deposit for 5 years, you can claim a deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. You can reduce your taxable income by up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year by investing in this scheme. However, the shorter tenures — 1, 2, and 3 years — do not qualify for any tax benefits.

The interest you earn on a Post Office Time Deposit is fully taxable. It gets added to your total income and is taxed based on your income tax slab. If the interest you earn in a year exceeds ₹40,000 (₹50,000 for senior citizens), the post office will deduct TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) at 10% (if your PAN is submitted).

You can also submit Form 15G/15H to avoid TDS, but only if you meet the eligibility criteria. Remember, even if TDS isn’t deducted, you still need to report the interest income when filing your income tax returns.

Comparison: Post Office Time Deposit vs. Bank Fixed Deposit

Both the post office time deposit scheme and bank FDs are preferred investment options for investors seeking regular and stable interest income. If you are confused about which one to choose and where to park your funds, the following table will help you make an informed decision:

Criteria

Post Office Time Deposit

Bank Fixed Deposit

Tenure Options

1, 2, 3, and 5 years

7 days to 10 years

Interest Rates

6.9% - 7.5%

Interest rates can vary from 5% to 7.5%

Tax Benefits

Available for 5-year deposit under Section 80C

Available for 5-year tax-saving FD under Section 80C

Premature Withdrawal

Allowed after 6 months with a penalty

Allowed anytime after the deposit is made but with a penalty (not allowed for tax-saver FD)

Interest Payment Frequency

Calculated quarterly, but paid annually

Interest payments can be customised into quarterly, monthly, or annual frequencies

If you are looking for a secure investment option, the Post Office Time Deposit Scheme is a reliable choice. It offers fixed earnings, tax benefits, and government backing, making it a good alternative to bank FDs.

Conclusion

A Post Office Time Deposit Scheme is a secure investment option where you can park your money for a fixed tenure and earn guaranteed income. You can choose from 1, 2, 3, or 5-year tenures, with interest rates ranging from 6.8% to 7.5%. The 5-year deposit also offers tax benefits under Section 80C.

Opening a Post Office Time Deposit is simple, and you can do it by visiting the nearest post office or through the India Post portal. Whether you are a conservative investor or someone looking for tax-saving options, the Post Office Time Deposit Scheme can be a good addition to your investment portfolio.

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The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.

Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.

BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.

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