Post Office Interest Rates Table Q3 2026-27 [UPDATED]
The Central Government has released the official Post Office Interest Rates Table for the October to December 2026 quarter (Q3 FY 2026-27). According to the Ministry of Finance announcement on 30 September 2026, the interest rates for all small savings schemes remain unchanged from the previous quarter. Citizens can continue to invest in government-backed instruments such as the Public Provident Fund (PPF), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), and Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) with guaranteed returns and assured safety.
These small savings schemes cater to diverse financial needs across India, promoting a disciplined habit of savings and long-term wealth creation. Investors can access services through physical branch visits or utilize digital options like eBanking and the recently launched ePassbook feature via the official India Post website. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing the updated interest rates, tenures, tax implications, account opening rules, and vital service charges for the current quarter.
Post Office Small Savings Schemes Interest Rates Table (Q3 2026-27)
The table below outlines the specific interest rates, tenures, and tax provisions applicable from 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026:
| Scheme Name | Interest Rate | Tenure / Lock-in | Investment Tax Deduction | Interest Taxable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Post Office Savings Account | 4.0% | NA | No | Yes |
| Post Office Recurring Deposit (RD) | 6.7% | 5 Years | No | Yes |
| Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) | 7.4% | 5 Years | No | Yes |
| Post Office Time Deposit (1 Year) | 6.9% | 1 Year | No | Yes |
| Post Office Time Deposit (2 Year) | 7.0% | 2 Years | No | Yes |
| Post Office Time Deposit (3 Year) | 7.1% | 3 Years | No | Yes |
| Post Office Time Deposit (5 Year) | 7.5% | 5 Years | Yes (Old Regime) | Yes |
| Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) | 7.5% | 115 Months | No | Yes |
| Public Provident Fund (PPF) | 7.1% | 15 Years | Yes (Old Regime) | No |
| Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) | 8.2% | 21 Years | Yes (Old Regime) | No |
| National Savings Certificate (NSC) | 7.7% | 5 Years | Yes (Old Regime) | Yes |
| Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) | 8.2% | 5 Years | Yes (Old Regime) | Yes |
Important Dates for Q3 FY 2026-27
The government reviews and notifies small savings scheme interest rates on a quarterly basis. The key dates governing the current schedule are outlined below:
| Event Description | Date |
|---|---|
| Q3 Rates Effective Start Date | 1 October 2026 |
| Q3 Rates Effective End Date | 31 December 2026 |
| Next Scheduled Rate Review | By 31 December 2026 |
Scheme Eligibility and Account Opening Guidelines
Opening an account in any post office small savings scheme requires fulfilling specific documentation and eligibility criteria:
- Eligible Entities: Resident Indian citizens. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Trusts, Firms, and Institutions are not eligible for National Small Savings Scheme accounts.
- Mandatory Documents: Account Opening Form, KYC Form, PAN Card, and Aadhaar Card. If Aadhaar is unavailable, alternatives like a Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, or MNREGA job card are accepted.
- Special Requirements: A birth certificate is mandatory for opening a Sukanya Samriddhi Account. Investments exceeding ₹10 lakh require proof of the source of funds under the PMLA 2002 guidelines. Senior citizens claiming benefits under VRS must present retirement proofs.
Schedule of Service Charges
India Post levies nominal fees for specific administrative and account management services:
- Duplicate Passbook Issue: ₹50
- Statement of Account / Deposit Receipt: ₹20 per case
- Passbook Replacement (Lost/Mutilated): ₹10 per registration
- Account Transfer: ₹100
- Pledging of Account: ₹100
- Cheque Book Issuance: Free up to 10 leaves per year; ₹2 per additional cheque leaf
- Cheque Dishonour Charges: ₹100
How to Open Accounts and Access Services
Account holders can open or manage schemes using the following procedures:
- Branch Application: Fill out the respective account opening and KYC forms, attach self-attested copies of identity and address proofs along with a cheque, and submit them at any CBS Post Office.
- Digital Banking: Registered savings account holders can activate eBanking by submitting a signed form at their home branch. Once activated, users receive an activation code within 48 hours to complete registration on the official India Post eBanking portal.
- ePassbook Facility: Customers can access the ePassbook online service to verify account balances and download mini statements for SB, PPF, and SSA accounts using secure OTP authentication.
For complete details and downloadable forms, visit the official website at indiapost.gov.in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the interest rate for Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for Q3 2026?
The interest rate for Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is 8.2% per annum, calculated on a yearly basis and compounded annually.
Are post office small savings interest rates subject to change quarterly?
Yes, the Central Government reviews and notifies small savings scheme interest rates every quarter.
What is the current interest rate offered on Public Provident Fund (PPF)?
The PPF interest rate is 7.1% per annum, compounded yearly.
Can NRIs invest in post office small savings schemes?
No, NRIs, Trusts, Firms, and Institutions are not eligible to open accounts under the National Small Savings Scheme.
How long does Kisan Vikas Patra take to double the invested amount?
Kisan Vikas Patra offers an interest rate of 7.5% compounded yearly, which doubles the invested amount in 115 months (9 years and 7 months).
What is the fee for transferring a post office savings account?
The fee for transferring an account between CBS Post Offices is ₹100 plus applicable taxes.
Official Links
Details are compiled from official notices. Always confirm eligibility, dates and fees on the official website before applying.