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Because of rising inflation, many banks began raising their FD rates.
As a result, the Interest Rates on a couple of the Post Office’s savings programs have increased slightly.
Today we are going to look at the Post Office Interest Rate from January to March 2026
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents:
I. Changes to Post Office Savings Schemes Effective From April 1st, 2016
II. January – March 2026 Post Office Interest Rates
III. Interest Rates at Post Offices from Oct 2024 to Mar 2026
IV. Why should you choose a Post Office Savings Scheme?
- Public Provident Fund
- Savings Account
- Recurring Deposit Account (RD)
- Time Deposit Account (TD)
- Monthly Income Scheme Account (MIS)
- Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
- National Savings Certificates (NSC)
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Scheme
- Kisan Vikas Patra
V. Best Post Office Scheme for Senior Citizens
VI. How can I start a Post Office Savings Scheme account?
VII. Documents required to open a “Post Office Savings Scheme” Account
VIII. Post Office Savings Scheme Q&A
IX. Conclusion
I. Changes to Post Office Savings Schemes Effective from April 1st, 2016
According to the schedule, the government declared the interest rate applicable to all Post Office Savings Schemes from January 1st to March 31st, 2026.
Many individuals track the post office current interest rate each quarter because even small changes can impact long-term savings and retirement planning.
| S.NO | Quarter in which the interest rate would be effective | Notification | The interest rate will be determined by the FIMMDA month-end G-Sec. rate. |
| 1. | April-June | 15th March | Dec-Jan-Feb |
| 2. | July-September | 15th June | Mar-April-May |
| 3. | October-December | 15th September | Jun-Jul-Aug |
| 4. | January-March | 15th December | Sep-Oct-Nov |
II. January – March 2026 Current and Latest Post Office Interest Rates
What are the new interest rates on post office schemes?
According to a statement from the Ministry of Finance’s Department of Economic Affairs, the interest rates shown below are in effect for the third quarter of this fiscal year.
These post office latest interest rates help investors evaluate whether to continue existing deposits or shift to higher-yielding postal saving schemes.
Many savers also refer to the post office interest rates table to understand differences across RD, TD, MIS, SCSS, and other accounts.
Post Office Interest Rates Table – Jan – Mar 2026
|
Sl.No |
SCHEME | Existing Interest Rate (Jul 25- Sept 25) | Revised Interest Rate (Oct 25 – Dec 25) | Revised Interest Rate (Jan 2026 – Mar 2026) | Compounding Frequency |
Effective Return |
|
1. |
Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme |
8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | yearly |
8.20% |
|
2. |
Kisan Vikas Patra(KVP) | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | yearly |
7.50% |
|
3. |
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) |
8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | NA |
8.20% |
|
4. |
Public Provident Fund (PPF) |
7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | yearly |
7.10% |
|
5. |
Post Office Monthly Income Scheme(MIS) |
7.40% | 7.40% | 7.40% | NA |
7.40% |
|
6. |
National Savings Certificate (NSC)- 5yrs |
7.70% | 7.70% | 7.70% | Yearly |
7.70% |
|
7. |
Recurring Deposit – 5yrs |
6.70% | 6.70% | 6.70% | Qly |
6.70% |
|
8. |
Term Deposit 1yr |
6.90% | 6.90% | 6.90% | Qly |
6.90% |
|
9. |
Term Deposit 2yr |
7.00% | 7.00% | 7.00% | Qly |
7.10% |
|
10. |
Term Deposit 3yr |
7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | Qly |
7.10% |
|
11. |
Term Deposit 5yr |
7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | Qly |
7.50% |
|
12. |
Savings Account |
4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | NA |
4.00% |
Can you notice a similarity in the above Post Office Interest Rate January to March 2026 illustration?
The Interest Rates of the Public Provident Fund(PPF) and Savings Account are unchanged!
For those comparing returns, the post office savings account interest rate remains one of the few rates that has stayed constant over multiple quarters.
III. Interest Rates at Post Offices from October 2024 to March 2026
Post Office Interest Rates Table October 2024 to March 2026
A year-on-year view of postal interest rates allows investors to analyse stability, which is especially important for senior citizens depending on predictable income.
Comparing these updates with post office interest rates for senior citizens helps retirees choose between SCSS, MIS, and fixed deposit options.
| SI.No | Scheme | October to December 2024 | January to March 2025 | April to June 2025 | July to September 2025 | October 2025 to December 2025 |
January 2026 to March 2026
|
| 1 | Sukanya samridi Scheme | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% |
| 2 | Kisan Vikas Patra(KVP) | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% |
| 3 | Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (scss) |
8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% | 8.20% |
| 4 | Public Provident Fund (PPF) | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% |
| 5 | Post Office Monthly Income Scheme(MIS) |
7.40% | 7.40% | 7.40% | 7.40% | 7.40% | 7.40% |
| 6 | National Savings Certificate(NSC)- | 7.70% | 7.70% | 7.70% | 7.70% | 7.70% | 7.70% |
| 7 | Recurring Deposit | 6.70% | 6.70% | 6.70% | 6.70% | 6.70% | 6.70% |
| 8 | Term Deposit 1yr | 6.90% | 6.90% | 6.90% | 6.90% | 6.90% | 6.90% |
| 9 | Term Deposit 2yr | 7.00% | 7.00% | 7.00% | 7.00% | 7.00% | 7.00% |
| 10 | Term Deposit 3yr | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% | 7.10% |
| 11 | Term Deposit 5yr | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% |
| 12 | Savings Account | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% | 4.00% |
IV. Why should you choose a Post Office Savings Scheme?
- Simplicity and Security
Because of their simplicity and accessibility, Post Office accounts are a popular savings and investment choice.
They are backed by the Government of India, which instils faith in the general public.
Due to limited documentation and proper procedures in the Post Office, these saving schemes are simple to choose and best suited for both rural and urban investors.
Many households prefer these options because post office savings scheme interest rates remain government-backed and reliable even during market uncertainty.
- Long-Term and Risk-Free Investment
The Post-Office investment options are great for retirement and pension planning because the investments are long-term in nature, with a PPF account investment period of up to 15 years.
- Tax Advantages
The Post Office Saving Scheme offers a high rate of return as well as Tax Advantages and Capital Protection.
Post Office Saving Scheme Interest Rates are risk-free, ranging from 4% to 8% and the majority of these programs qualify for Section 80C tax breaks on the deposit amount.
Few programs, such as the PPF and the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, exempt the interest earned from taxation.
The wide range of postal saving schemes makes it easier for both beginners and seasoned investors to allocate money across low-risk instruments.
Now let’s look at some of the Post Office Savings Schemes!
1. Public Provident Fund
This is one of the most famous Post Office Savings and Investment Schemes.
The Government of India’s Public Provident Fund (PPF) Scheme is a Tax-Free Savings Account Scheme.
The PPF is a safe investment because it is government-backed and cannot be connected to any debt or liability.
High yields, Tax Exemption, and capital security are all advantages of a PPF account.
Please Click Here to read more about the PPF scheme.
2. Savings Account
The Post Office savings account offers a Fixed Rate of Return on deposits. As a result, it is appropriate for risk-averse investors seeking a fixed investment return.
The Post Office Savings Account has a ₹500 minimum deposit requirement and no maximum deposit limit.
Interest earned in the account up to ₹10,000 is deductible from income in a fiscal year under section 80 TTA of the Income Tax Act.
Many rural families rely on the post office savings interest rate as a dependable way to park emergency funds.
3. Recurring Deposit Account (RD)
The 5-year Post Office Recurring Deposit (PORD) system allows you to save every month for 5 years.
- Minimum monthly payment of ₹100/- and any amount in multiples of ₹10/-. There is no upper limit.
- An adult can open an account in his or her own name, or up to three adults can open an account jointly.
- A minor or a person of unsound mind may have a guardian open an account on their behalf.
Income is taxable in the hands of investors at the individual tax bracket rates, but no TDS is levied.
4. Time Deposit Account (TD)
Deposits under Post Office Time Deposit schemes can be made for one, two, three, or five years, and only one deposit can be made in one account.
Account holders can extend the period of a Time Deposit account when it matures.
The minimum deposit in the ‘Time Deposit Account’ is 1000/-, and subsequent deposits are in multiples of 100.
Income is taxable in the hands of investors at the individual tax bracket rates, but no TDS is levied.
The RD account is subject to a three-month minimum lock-in period. You cannot withdraw your Post Office RD investments early.
5. Monthly Income Scheme Account (MIS)
The Minimum deposit in the ‘Monthly Income Scheme’ is 1000/- and multiples thereof. The Maximum single account balance is ₹9 lakhs and the joint account balance is ₹15 lakhs.
A resident Indian can only open an MIS account. Non-resident Indians are not covered by this scheme.
Anyone above the age of 18 is eligible to open an account. You can open an account on behalf of a minor aged 10 or older.
6. Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
This Senior Citizen Savings Scheme is a Government-Backed Retirement Plan that allows you to make a single lump sum deposit. The deposit can range between a minimum of ₹1,000 and with maximum deposit of ₹30 lacs.
The account can be opened either separately or jointly with a spouse.
Who is eligible for this scheme? Individuals above the age of 60 can open this account.
SCSS remains a preferred choice because post office interest rates for senior citizens are generally higher than regular savings or FD rates.
7. National Savings Certificates (NSC)
NSC, or The National Savings Certificate, is a government-backed fixed-income investment scheme.
It is ideal for low and middle-income investors who want to save taxes while generating rewards. This is a safe and risk-free product.
The consistent NSC interest rate in post office attracts long-term, tax-planning investors who seek guaranteed returns.
8. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Scheme
What exactly is the Sukanya Samriddhi program?
The Government of India created the Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme to ensure equal share for girl children while also saving their financial future.
The Sukanya Samriddhi scheme is only for girl children and is open to girl children aged 0 to 10 years.
Click Here to Know everything about the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Scheme.
Families often track the post office scheme interest rate updates to plan long-term savings for their daughter’s future.
9. Kisan Vikas Patra
Kisan Vikas Patra was introduced in 1988 as a small savings certificate initiative.
Its primary goal was to urge people to practice long-term financial discipline.
At the time of its inception, this scheme was aimed at farmers, hence the name.
However, anyone who meets the eligibility criteria can now invest in it.
The Kisan Vikas Patra Post Office scheme has a fixed tenure of 113 months and provides individuals with guaranteed returns.
Savers also check the post office Kisan Vikas Patra interest rate across different years before committing to this long-term certificate.
Click Here to find the complete details of the Kisan Vikas Patra Scheme including Post Office Interest Rates.
V. Best Post Office Scheme for Senior Citizens
Selecting the right savings scheme is crucial for senior citizens, who usually prefer guaranteed returns, steady income, and low risk.
Among all Post Office products, the following stand out as the most beneficial options:
A. Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) – The Top Choice
SCSS remains the best and most popular option for retirees because:
- Offers one of the highest guaranteed interest rates among small savings schemes.
- Provides a regular quarterly pay-out, ensuring predictable income.
- Backed by the Government of India, making it one of the safest instruments.
- Eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C.
- Premature closure is allowed with minimal penalties after 1 year.
- Suitable for retirement corpus parking (up to the prescribed limit).
B. Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) – For Stable Monthly Income
Ideal for senior citizens who want monthly cash flow:
- Provides fixed monthly interest, helpful for meeting household expenses.
- Low-risk and fully government-backed.
- Joint account option increases the maximum deposit limit.
- Best for seniors who need liquidity and predictable income without market volatility.
C. Post Office Time Deposit (5-Year TD) – Safe & Tax-Beneficial
A suitable option for seniors who prefer lump-sum investing with maturity benefits:
- 5-year tenure qualifies for 80C tax benefits.
- Higher interest compared to standard savings accounts.
- Guaranteed returns make it ideal for conservative investors.
- Can be opened singly or jointly, providing flexibility.
How to Choose the Best Option?
Senior citizens may select a scheme based on:
- Need for monthly income → Choose POMIS
- Quarterly pay-out with highest interest → Choose SCSS
- Tax-saving + fixed maturity → Choose 5-year Time Deposit
- Diversification → Combine SCSS + POMIS for income + stability
VI. How can I start a Post Office Savings Scheme account?
You can open a “Recurring Deposit” or “Term Deposit” Account Through Mobile.
From the Google Play Store, download and sign in to the India Post Mobile Banking app.
a.) After successfully logging in, go to the home screen and choose the ‘Requests’ option to create a POFD account.
b.) To open the account, enter the details such as the deposit amount, duration, the account from which you wish to deposit the money, nominee, and others.
- Offline Process for Other Schemes
Go to the Post Office’s official website and download and print the appropriate application form.
Attach all required paperwork. Go to your local Post Office and present the papers to the appropriate officials.
VII. Documents required to open a “Post Office Savings Scheme” Account
- Voter identification card
- MNREGA issued a job card that was signed by a state government officer.
- The National Population Register sent you a letter with your name and address on it.
- In the case of a minor account, proof of date of birth/birth certificate is required.
- Account Registration Form
- KYC Form (For New Customers/Changes to KYC Details)
- PAN Number
- If an Aadhaar card is not available, the following document may be submitted.
- Passport
- Driver’s license
These documents are commonly required whether you’re opening a post office savings account or investing in RD, TD, MIS, or other deposits.
VIII. Post Office Savings Scheme Q&A
i.) What is the 1000 per month scheme in the Post Office?
It is the Post Office Monthly Income Scheme.
The Minimum amount of investment is ₹1000/- and multiples thereof.
The maximum single account balance is ₹9 lakhs and joint account balance is ₹15 lakhs. Interest earned is subject to tax but not TDS.
This scheme is popular among individuals comparing post office monthly income scheme rates for stable monthly pay-outs.
ii.) Is Post Office 5-year FD tax-free?
Only the deposit you made in the 5-year fixed deposit account is eligible for income tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of India, 1961.
If the interest you earn on your FD account exceeds ₹40,000 per fiscal year for regular customers, the Post Office may deduct tax at the source.
The post office FD interest rate remains one of the most stable fixed-income options with tax-saving benefits on a 5-year deposit.
iii.) Which is superior, the Post Office FD or the NSC?
National Savings Certificates (NSC) have a longer investment period but provide a range of benefits, including tax breaks.
Post Office Fixed Deposit Interest Rates are substantially greater than Post Office savings accounts Interest Rates.
Comparisons between Kisan Vikas Patra vs NSC and FD help investors identify the right option for long-term guaranteed returns.
iv.) Is it possible for me to have two Post Office accounts?
Yes, you can create two accounts.
A ‘single Account’ is permitted to be opened by only an individual once, while the other will be a joint account.
The single account has additional benefits, such as the ability to integrate with a postal wallet and conduct NEFT and RTGS transactions.
This is not possible in the case of a joint account.
Many users open more than one post office savings account to manage funds for household expenses, children’s education, or emergency savings.
v.) Is Post Office FD 100% safe?
Post Office Deposits and Fixed Deposits are both considered safe investment options.
Before deciding between Post Office Deposits and FDs, investors should examine their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.”
The security of a post office fixed deposit is one of the main reasons conservative investors choose it over bank-based FDs.
IX. Conclusion
We hope that this article provided you with enough clarity about the Post Office Interest Rate January to March 2026 and about various savings schemes in general.
Sharing this would benefit people who are in need of this information.
Post office schemes are endorsed by the Government.
So, it is a reliable form of investment without much risk.
But, when you want to invest in other forms of investment options like Mutual Funds, share market, etc… It is wise to take the help of a professional financial planner.
Be safe and invest wisely!
Overall, reviewing post office current interest rate updates regularly helps you make smarter and safer investment decisions.
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