Fixed Deposit (FD) Guide: Types, Benefits, Interest Calculation & FAQs

 

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Learn about Fixed Deposits (FD) – types, benefits, interest rates, tax-saving options, and how to calculate returns. Find answers to common FD FAQs.

An Overview of Fixed Deposit(FD)

Banks and non-banking financial institutions (NBFCs) provide their clients with an investment option known as a fixed deposit or FD. A fixed amount of money is invested in an FD at a predetermined rate of interest for a predetermined amount of time. Since fixed deposits are among the safest investment options on the market, they are very popular. 


There is no genuine chance of suffering a capital loss, and the returns are certain. In addition, their interest rate is superior to that of savings accounts.  While interest rates vary from one financial institution to another, they are typically higher than those on savings accounts.

Different Fixed Deposit Types

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Different FD types are available on the market to meet the various needs of investors. Among the well-liked choices are:

1. Cumulative Fixed Deposits

According to the Reserve Bank of India's guidelines, interest on cumulative fixed deposits must be computed at quarterly compounding intervals and paid at a rate determined by the bank based on the length of the deposit. Those who wish to increase their investment returns and do not require frequent interest payments are the ideal candidates for this choice.

2. Non-cumulative Fixed Deposit: 

In this plan or product, the depositor receives interest payments regularly rather than accruing interest. The depositor is guaranteed a passive income as a result.  To put it another way, the investor in this kind of FD receives their interest payments on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual basis, depending on their option. Investors that require a consistent revenue source might consider this option.

3. Save Taxes with a Fixed Deposit

Certain tax-saving investments are deductible from taxes. The principal amount of a tax-saving FD is tax deductible up to ₹1,50,000 annually under section 80C of the Indian Income Tax Act, and the investment has a five-year maturity term. 

4. Fixed Deposits for Senior Citizens

Banks and NBFCs typically provide FD interest rates that are 25–50 basis points (0.25-0.50%) more than those offered to other investors for those over 60. They offer an extra tax advantage as well. Senior citizens' interest If an FD's annual income is less than ₹50,000, there is no tax withheld at the source. This benefit is not offered to seniors by other investing options.

5. Typical Term Deposits

Investment plans known as standard fixed deposits allow you to put money down for a set amount of time at a predefined interest rate. The tenure or investment time can be anywhere from seven days to ten years. The length of the investment and the financial institution providing the instrument determine the interest rate.

Who can open a Fixed Deposits Account?

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1. A person with his name

2. More than 1 person with a joint name

3. Elderly people

4. Investors(Investors with short term Goals/ Conservative Investors)

5. Company/company partnerships

6. Clubs and Societies

How to Open a Fixed Deposit Account?

1. Visiting the nearest bank where you want to open your FD Account, with your KYC Documents(adhar card, PAN Card, Passbook, passport, driving license)

2. Through Net Banking

3. With The help of a Mobile App or NBFC Website where you want to open your FD Account

How To Calculate Interest on a Fixed Deposit Account?

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There are two methods for calculating interest on an FD: simple interest (SI) and compound interest (CI). 


 Depending on the tenure and the amount deposited, banks may utilize both approaches to determine interest on FDs.


The following formula is used to compute interest using the SI method:

SI= (P*R*T)/100

Where, 

P= principal

R= Rate

T=time

Example:

Ms. Priya invests Rs. 8,000 at 6% p.a. for 3 years. To calculate the interest she will receive over 3 years, she will use the Simple Interest (S.I.) formula:

8,000*6*3=144000

144000/100=1440

Interest=Rs.1440


The following formula is used to compute interest using the CI method:

Also read: The Power of Compound Interest: How to Grow Your Wealth Efficiently

Using This Formula: CI=P{1+(I/N)}NT

Here, CI= Compound Interest

P= Principal

I= Interest

N=  Frequency of compound

T= time

In Conclusion

For those looking for steady profits, fixed deposits continue to be among the safest and most dependable investing options. With so many different kinds of FDs available, investors can select the one that best meets their financial objectives, whether they are regular income generation, tax savings, or asset growth. Investors can optimize their profits from FDs and make well-informed judgments by knowing how interest is computed.

FAQ'S

1. How much is the bare minimum needed to open an FD?

Each bank has a different minimum deposit amount, however it usually starts at ₹1,000.


2. Can I take my FD out before it matures?

Yes, but early withdrawals could result in penalties and interest that is less than the agreed-upon rate.


3. Is it taxable to earn interest on FDs?

Interest received on FDs is taxed, yes. Nonetheless, senior citizens may be eligible for tax benefits in specific circumstances.


4. Are interest rates on FDs set for the duration of the loan?

Yes, the interest rate for an FD is set for the booking duration.


5. Are NRIs able to create accounts with fixed deposits in India?

NRIs can open FDs using FCNR, NRE, or NRO accounts depending on their needs.








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