Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) 2026: Interest Rate & Forms

The Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) 2026 continues to offer a reliable investment avenue for individuals seeking fixed monthly returns backed by the central government. The Ministry of Finance has kept the interest rate unchanged at 7.4% per annum for the October to December quarter of FY 2026-27, ensuring that accounts opened during this period lock in this rate for the entire five-year duration.

This small savings scheme is designed to provide regular monthly income on lump-sum deposits while keeping the principal amount entirely secure. Single account holders can deposit up to Rs. 9 lakh, whereas joint accounts have a maximum investment limit of Rs. 15 lakh. With an assured annual return of 7.4%, the scheme appeals to conservative investors looking for steady payouts without market risks.

Key Details of Post Office MIS 2026

Feature	Details
Organization	India Post, Government of India
Scheme Name	Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS)
Interest Rate	7.4% per annum (payable monthly)
Lock-in Period	5 Years
Minimum Deposit	Rs. 1,000
Maximum Deposit (Single)	Rs. 9,00,000
Maximum Deposit (Joint)	Rs. 15,00,000
Official Website	indiapost.gov.in

Important Dates and Interest Lock-In

The central government reviews small savings scheme interest rates on a quarterly basis. For the current financial period, the 7.4% rate applies to all accounts opened through December 31, 2026.

Event / Milestone	Date / Period
Current Rate Validity	October 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026
Scheme Maturity / Lock-in	5 Years from Date of Opening

Eligibility Criteria for POMIS

To open a Monthly Income Scheme account, applicants must meet specific requirements established by India Post:

• Residency: Applicants must be residents of India. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are not eligible to invest.
• Age Requirement: Any individual aged 10 years or older can open and operate an account independently. For minors below 10 years of age, parents or legal guardians can open an account on their behalf.
• Account Types: Accounts can be held as a single adult, jointly by up to three adults, or by a guardian for a minor or person of unsound mind.

Deposit Limits and Returns

Deposits in the MIS must be made in multiples of Rs. 1,000, with a minimum investment of Rs. 1,000. An individual can invest up to Rs. 9 lakh in a single capacity across all accounts. For joint accounts, the upper limit is Rs. 15 lakh, provided each individual's share does not breach the individual cap of Rs. 9 lakh.

Interest is payable upon the completion of one month from the date of opening and monthly thereafter. Unclaimed monthly interest does not accrue additional earnings. Depositors can have interest automatically credited to a savings account at the same post office or via electronic clearing services (ECS).

Premature Closure Rules

Although the lock-in period spans five years, premature withdrawal is permitted under specific conditions:

• No withdrawals are allowed before the completion of 1 year from the deposit date.
• Closing the account between 1 year and 3 years incurs a deduction of 2% from the principal amount.
• Closing the account between 3 years and 5 years incurs a deduction of 1% from the principal amount.

How to Apply and Download Forms

Interested individuals can download the official account opening application form directly from the India Post website. Fill out the form with accurate details, attach the necessary identification documents, and submit it along with cash or a cheque at your nearest post office branch to start your investment.