RD for Women - Special Schemes

Recurring Deposits for women are a reliable and empowering financial tool, offering steady growth, safety, and flexibility. With special RD schemes designed to encourage women’s participation in financial planning, these plans help create long-term wealth and financial independence.  

Updated On - 09 Feb 2026
Check Free Credit Score

Saving regularly is one of the most powerful habits for achieving financial independence. For women, Recurring Deposit (RD) schemes offer a secure, disciplined, and convenient way to build wealth over time. Many banks and post offices now provide special RD schemes designed specifically for women, offering higher interest rates, flexible tenures, and additional benefits.

This guide explains everything you need to know about RD for women, including features, benefits, eligibility, and tips for choosing the best plan.

What Is a Recurring Deposit (RD)?

A Recurring Deposit is a savings option where you invest a fixed amount monthly for a chosen period, and the bank pays interest on it. At the end of the tenure, you receive the maturity amount, which includes both your deposits and the earned interest.

It’s ideal for women who wish to save systematically, whether for short-term goals or long-term financial security.

Why Banks Offer Special RD Schemes for Women

Banks and financial institutions promote women-centric savings schemes to encourage financial inclusion and independence. These RD plans often include:

  1. Slightly higher interest rates for women investors
  2. Flexible deposit and tenure options
  3. Simple documentation and easy online access
  4. Additional benefits like loan facilities and auto-renewal
RD schemes for women

Key Features of RD Schemes for Women

  • Higher Interest Rates: Many banks offer 0.25% to 0.50% higher interest for women.
  • Low Minimum Deposit: Start with as little as ₹100 per month.
  • Flexible Tenure: Choose a period between 6 months and 10 years.
  • Safe and Guaranteed Returns: Interest rates are fixed at the time of opening the RD.
  • Auto-Debit Facility: Monthly installments are automatically debited from your account.
  • Premature Withdrawal Option: Access funds early if needed (subject to penalties).
  • Nomination Facility: Secure your investment by naming a nominee.

Benefits of RD Schemes for Women

  1. Financial Empowerment: Encourages regular savings habits and independence.
  2. Goal-Oriented Savings: Ideal for funding children’s education, travel, or emergencies.
  3. Risk-Free Returns: Protected by bank or post office regulations.
  4. Steady Growth: Earn interest on monthly deposits through compound interest.
  5. Tax Benefits: Interest is taxable, but savings can help plan better under the overall income tax regime.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Must be an Indian resident woman (individual or joint account holder).
  2. Minimum age: 18 years (for minors, a guardian can open an RD on their behalf).
  3. Must have a savings account with the bank where the RD is opened.

Documents Required

To open an RD account, women must provide:

  1. Identity proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID
  2. Address proof: Utility bill, passport, or Aadhaar
  3. Passport-size photograph
  4. Savings account details for auto-debit setup

How to Open an RD Account for Women

1. Visit the Bank or Post Office

Collect the RD application form from your bank or access it through internet banking.

2. Fill in the Details

Provide your personal and account details, preferred tenure, and monthly deposit amount.

3. Submit KYC Documents

Attach self-attested copies of your identity and address proofs.

4. Activate Auto-Debit

Set up automatic monthly deductions from your savings account.

5. Confirmation

Once processed, you’ll receive the RD account number and details of your investment schedule.

While each bank offers its own features, below are a few types commonly available across India:

  1. Women’s Recurring Deposit (Bank-Specific Plans): Some banks provide extra interest rates for women customers.
  2. Post Office Recurring Deposit (5-Year Scheme): Reliable government-backed plan open to all, including women savers.
  3. Joint RD Accounts: Women can open joint accounts with spouses or family members to build shared savings goals.
  4. Senior Citizen Women RD: Enhanced interest rates for women above 60 years.

Tips for Choosing the Right RD Scheme

  • Compare interest rates across banks.
  • Check tenure flexibility and minimum deposit limits.
  • Ensure premature withdrawal and loan facilities are available.
  • Choose a reputed, RBI-registered bank or post office.
  • Align your RD tenure with your financial goals.

FAQs on RD for Women / Special Schemes

  • Are there special RD schemes exclusively for women?

    Yes, several banks offer special RD plans with higher interest rates or added benefits for women account holders.

  • What is the minimum amount required to start an RD for women?

    Most banks allow opening an RD with as little as ₹100 to ₹500 per month.

  • Can a homemaker open a recurring deposit account?

    Yes, a homemaker with a valid savings account and KYC documents can open an RD account.

  • Do women get higher interest rates on RDs?

    Many banks offer a small additional rate (0.25%–0.50%) on RDs opened by women.

  • Can I open a joint RD account with my husband or child?

    Yes, women can open joint RD accounts with family members to achieve shared savings goals.

  • What happens if I miss an RD installment?

    A small penalty may apply, and the interest may be reduced slightly. However, your RD remains active.

  • Is RD a good investment for women?

    Yes, RDs are ideal for risk-free, systematic savings, especially for women looking for stable returns.

  • Can I withdraw my RD amount before maturity?

    Yes, premature withdrawal is allowed, but you may earn lower interest and pay a nominal penalty.

Disclaimer
Display of any trademarks, tradenames, logos and other subject matters of intellectual property belong to their respective intellectual property owners. Display of such IP along with the related product information does not imply BankBazaar's partnership with the owner of the Intellectual Property or issuer/manufacturer of such products.