What is a Recurring Deposit (RD)?
A Recurring Deposit (RD) is a savings scheme offered by banks and post offices where you deposit a fixed amount every month for a predetermined period and earn interest on it. RD is perfect for individuals who want to build a savings habit and accumulate a corpus through regular monthly contributions.
Unlike Fixed Deposits which require a lump sum upfront, RDs allow you to invest small amounts monthly, making them accessible to salaried individuals and those with limited savings. RDs combine the discipline of systematic investing with the safety of guaranteed returns.
How to Use the RD Calculator
- Enter Monthly Deposit: Input the amount you'll invest every month (minimum ₹100)
- Set Interest Rate: Enter the annual interest rate offered (typically 5-7.5%)
- Choose Tenure: Select the deposit period in months (6-120 months)
- View Results: See maturity amount, total deposits, and interest earned
Understanding the RD Formula
RD maturity is calculated by applying compound interest to each monthly installment:
Where:
- M = Maturity Amount
- P = Monthly deposit amount
- n = Number of months
- r = Annual interest rate (in decimal)
RD vs Other Investment Options
RD vs FD
FD requires lump sum investment while RD allows monthly deposits. FD typically offers slightly higher interest rates (0.25-0.5% more) but RD is better for building savings discipline.
RD vs SIP
RD offers guaranteed returns with zero market risk, while SIP in mutual funds can provide higher returns but with market volatility. RD is ideal for risk-averse investors, SIP for wealth creation.
RD vs PPF
PPF has a 15-year lock-in with tax benefits, while RD offers flexibility with 6-month to 10-year tenures. PPF interest is tax-free; RD interest is taxable.
Benefits of Recurring Deposits
- Disciplined Saving: Encourages regular monthly savings habit
- Guaranteed Returns: Fixed interest rate ensures predictable returns
- Flexible Tenure: Choose from 6 months to 10 years
- Low Entry Barrier: Start with as little as ₹100 per month
- Loan Facility: Get loans against RD (up to 90% of deposit value)
- Safe Investment: Backed by banks, covered under deposit insurance
RD Interest Rates in India (2025)
RD rates are typically 0.25-0.5% lower than FD rates for the same tenure:
- Public Sector Banks: 5.0% - 7.0% p.a.
- Private Banks: 5.5% - 7.5% p.a.
- Post Office RD: 6.7% p.a. (Q1 2025)
- Senior Citizens: Additional 0.5% in some banks
Penalty for Missed Installments
Missing RD installments can result in penalties (typically ₹1-2 per ₹100 of monthly deposit). If you miss multiple consecutive installments (usually 3-4), the bank may close your RD account and return the deposited amount with reduced interest.
Tax Implications
RD interest is fully taxable as per your income tax slab. TDS is deducted if interest exceeds ₹40,000 per year (₹50,000 for senior citizens). Submit Form 15G/15H if your income is below taxable limit.
Related Calculators
- FD Calculator - Calculate Fixed Deposit returns
- PPF Calculator - Calculate PPF maturity amount
- SIP Calculator - Calculate mutual fund SIP returns
- EMI Calculator - Calculate loan EMI