Bank FD Rates: If you are a senior citizen and are looking for safe investment options, then bank FDs can be a great opportunity for you. Currently, some small finance banks are offering attractive interest rates of up to 9.1% on FDs with a tenure of three years. Note, these interest rates are applicable on FDs of less than Rs 3 crore. While all banks are reducing interest rates on FDs, these banks are still offering interest rates above 9% to senior citizens. These banks offer the highest interest rates
Utkarsh Small Finance Bank: 9.1% interest rate
- Northeast Small Finance Bank: 9% interest rate
- Jana Small Finance Bank: 8.75% interest rate
- Suryoday Small Finance Bank: 8.75% interest rate
- Unity Small Finance Bank: 8.65% interest rate
- Equitas Small Finance Bank: 8.25% interest rate
(Source: Paisabazaar.com, till 23 April 2025)
This is the right time to invest in FDs as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cut the repo rate and many big banks have reduced their FD interest rates.
Caution is necessary while investing in small finance banks
Although deposits in small finance banks up to Rs 5 lakh are protected under the Deposit Insurance Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), still be a little cautious while investing in these banks. Keep the investment amount within the coverage limit of DICGC so that in case of any untoward incident, your money can be returned.
Senior citizens can fill Form 15H to save TDS
According to Budget 2025, now TDS will be deducted on FDs of more than Rs 1 lakh interest in a bank. But if your total tax liability is zero, then you can avoid TDS deduction by submitting Form 15H. Form 15H is valid only when your tax liability remains zero after all deductions (like 80C, 80D etc.), even if your total income is more than Rs 3 lakh. If you want safe and good returns for the next three years, then this can be a great opportunity for FD.
