Post Office Savings Scheme Interest Rates October–December 2026: PPF, Sukanya, SCSS, NSC Rates Unchanged

Overview

The Ministry of Finance has kept the interest rates of all small savings schemes unchanged for the October to December 2026 quarter (Q3 of 2026-27). The decision was announced on 30 September 2026, so the rates that applied from July to September continue for deposits made from 1 October 2026.

These schemes are sold mainly through post offices, and several of them are also available at authorised banks. Because the government backs them, they are popular with families, senior citizens and people who want a fixed, low-risk return. Below is the full rate list, followed by a short guide on which scheme suits whom.

Interest Rates for October to December 2026

The government reviews these rates every quarter. The next review is due before the January to March 2027 quarter.

Which Scheme Suits Whom

• For a daughter’s education or marriage: Sukanya Samriddhi Account, which currently has the highest rate along with SCSS. It can be opened for a girl child below 10 years of age.
• For senior citizens who want regular income: Senior Citizens Savings Scheme pays interest every quarter. The Monthly Income Scheme is another option for anyone who wants a fixed monthly payout.
• For long-term, tax-saving savings: PPF has a 15-year term and is a common choice for retirement planning.
• For a fixed lump-sum investment: NSC and the 5-year Time Deposit lock in the rate for the full term.
• For small monthly savings: the 5-year Recurring Deposit lets you put in a fixed amount every month.

Tax rules are different for each scheme. Some qualify for deduction under Section 80C of the old tax regime, and the interest on some is taxable. Check the current tax position on the India Post or income tax website before you invest.

Does the New Rate Apply to Old Deposits?

• Fixed-term schemes (Time Deposit, NSC, KVP, MIS, SCSS): the rate on the day you open the account stays the same for the whole term, so a change later does not affect you.
• PPF and Sukanya Samriddhi: the rate notified for each quarter applies to the whole balance during that quarter, so it can move up or down over the years.
• Savings account: the current rate applies to the balance.

How to Open an Account

1. Visit your nearest post office, or a bank that offers the scheme you want.
2. Fill in the account opening form for that scheme.
3. Submit your KYC documents and a photograph.
4. Deposit the amount in cash or by cheque, as allowed for that scheme.
5. Collect your passbook or certificate and check the details printed on it.

Many of these accounts can also be managed online through India Post’s internet and mobile banking once you have a post office savings account.

Documents Usually Needed

• Aadhaar card
• PAN card (required for larger deposits)
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Address proof, if the address on Aadhaar is not current
• For Sukanya Samriddhi: the girl child’s birth certificate and the parent’s KYC

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Expecting PPF or Sukanya rates to stay fixed for the full term. They are reviewed every quarter.
• Missing the minimum yearly deposit in PPF or Sukanya Samriddhi, which can make the account inactive.
• Not adding a nominee when opening the account.
• Trusting agents who promise rates higher than the official list.

Official Links

• India Post: indiapost.gov.in
• Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance: dea.gov.in

This is a private information website and is not connected with any government body. This page is for information only and is not investment advice. Always confirm the current rates at your post office or on the official website.