A recurring deposit is a financial tool where investors deposit a predetermined fixed sum of money each month for a predetermined period of time. On maturation of that period, the entire lump sum along with interest is handed back to the investor.
Planning on making a start on those financial planning resolutions? No matter what the amount, financial planning reaps big dividends in the long run, even if you're starting out with a measly Rs.100 a month.
Putting that Rs.100 every month into a recurring deposit would help you save big and earn from those savings. How, you might ask?
A recurring deposit works similar to a fixed deposit, where investors earn through their deposits. The difference between the two is a fixed deposit requires you to deposit a large sum of money all at once, whereas a recurring deposit requires you to make monthly instalment payments for a certain period of time.
The interest earned through a recurring deposit is the same as that earned through a fixed deposit, thus making it a good way to start saving and building capital. Recurring deposits can be short term as well as long term.
A long term recurring deposit can run up to a maximum of 10 years, with the interest on the principal compounded each quarter.
A recurring deposit is a good way to save up for any financial goals you may have. As a fixed amount is being deducted from your bank account each month, the onus of saving a portion or setting money aside is already taken care of.
For example, if you are saving for your child's higher education or a related expense, you can calculate an approximate amount you will require and plan your recurring deposit accordingly. As you would also have more immediate expenses, selecting a long term recurring deposit would be a good idea as you can start saving a small amount from the beginning.
You can select a tenure up to a maximum of 10 years, at the end of which you will receive not only the principal but also the accrued interest, making for a significant amount.
A long term recurring deposit has a maximum tenure of 10 years as per banking guidelines. A long term recurring deposit is usually over 5 years, compared to the regular recurring deposits, which range from 3-5 years.
A long term RD keeps your money locked for the duration of the deposit, which is why you should plan wisely since the penalties associated with a premature withdrawal are quite steep.
Another point to keep in mind is ensuring you have sufficient funds in your account, as the predetermined amount will be deducted on a fixed day each month. In case of fund shortage, most bank levy a late payment charge which varies.
Different banks have different rates regarding the minimum deposit amount for a long term recurring deposit. For example, some banks have a minimum deposit amount of Rs.10, whereas it is Rs.100 for others. All banks stipulate that amounts have to be in multiples of Rs.100 over and above the minimum deposit.
Individuals looking to open a recurring deposit have to meet certain eligibility criteria as laid down by each bank.
Most banks would require individuals to open a savings account with them so that transferring the interest amount is easy and hassle free for the individual.
Apart from eligibility criteria, there are certain documents to be submitted to the bank to when applying for a recurring deposit.
The list of documents is given below:
Generally, the minimum investment amount for this type of term deposit is Rs.1,000. However, the specific minimum amount can vary depending on the bank or financial institution.
Long-term recurring deposits are popular because they provide guaranteed returns and offer higher interest rates compared to other secure investment options. They are known for their stability and security, making them a preferred choice for many investors.
Traditionally, applying for a long-term recurring deposit involved visiting a bank branch. However, in recent times, the process has shifted to online platforms. To apply for a long-term recurring deposit online, individuals can visit the website of the respective bank or financial institution and follow the instructions provided to open an account and invest in a long-term fixed deposit.
Recurring deposit periods typically range from 7 days to 10 years, and therefore, a 20-year tenure may not be available for fixed deposits.
Investing in long-term recurring deposits offers several advantages, such as the ability to avail a loan against them and more financial benefits.
No, this is not universally true. While some banks may offer higher interest rates for longer-term deposits, it is not a guarantee. Each bank sets its own interest rates, which may or may not be higher for long-term deposits.
Apart from banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and other financial institutions also offer various types of recurring deposits, including long-term deposits.
Interest received from recurring deposits is taxable and individuals are required to pay income tax on the interest amount. The tax liability is determined based on the tax slab applicable to the holder of the recurring deposit. Investors with no taxable income can submit Form 15G to avoid Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on recurring deposits.
No, premature withdrawals from a recurring deposit account are generally not allowed before the maturity date. The funds are locked in for the specified tenure, and early withdrawals may attract penalties or result in the loss of interest earned.
Devarthi Gattuwar is a Finance Content Writer who has experience writing about Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Tax, and other BFSI products. Other than that, she also writes about non-financial utility products like Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Government Certificates, etc. She has a special interest in Social Media Marketing and its nuances. She likes to read and learn new things. She's a mental health advocate and a dog lover. |
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