Short-term fixed deposits (FDs) are an excellent option for investors seeking low-risk, stable returns over a short duration. Typically, the tenure of these FDs ranges from 7 days to 12 months, offering flexibility while allowing your money to grow without long-term commitment.

Here’s a look at some essential tips for maximizing returns on short-term FDs in India:

Compare Rates

Interest rates on short-term fixed deposits vary across banks and financial institutions. Smaller private banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) often offer higher interest rates compared to major public sector banks. Before investing, compare the rates from different institutions to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

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Ladder Your FDs

If you’re unsure about future liquidity needs, laddering your FDs can be a wise strategy. Instead of locking all your money in one FD, divide your investment into multiple FDs with varying maturities. This provides periodic liquidity and reduces reinvestment risk.

Watch for Premature Withdrawal Penalties

While short-term FDs offer flexibility, withdrawing before maturity can lead to penalties, typically reducing your interest earnings. Make sure to understand these penalties before investing and try to avoid premature withdrawals unless absolutely necessary.

Check Tax Implications

Interest earned on FDs is taxable, and it falls under “Income from Other Sources” in your tax return. If your earnings exceed Rs 40,000 (Rs 50,000 for senior citizens) in a financial year, the bank will deduct TDS (Tax Deducted at Source).

The table below compares the interest rates on FDs up to 1 year. You can check and opt for the one that suits your financial needs.

Short-Term Fixed Deposit Interest Rates (%)
Bank Name6 mths – < 1 Year
Public Sector Banks
Bank of Baroda5.60%-7.10%
Bank of India6.00%
Bank of Maharashtra5.25%-6.90%
Canara Bank6.15%-6.25%
Central Bank of India6.0%-6.25%
Indian Bank3.85%-7.05%
Indian Overseas Bank5.75%
Punjab & Sind Bank5.25%-7.15%
Punjab National Bank6.25%-7.05%
State Bank of India6.25%-6.50%
UCO Bank5%-7.30%
Union Bank of India5%-7.40%
Private Sector Banks
Axis Bank Ltd.5.75%-6%
Bandhan Bank Ltd.4.50%
Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.4.25%-7.25%
City Union Bank Ltd.6%-7.5%
DCB Bank Ltd.6.2%-7.25%
Dhanlaxmi Bank Ltd.5.00%
Federal Bank Ltd.5%-6.50%
HDFC Bank Ltd4.5%-6%
ICICI Bank Ltd.4.75%- 6%
IDBI Bank Limited5.50%-7.05%
IndusInd Bank Ltd5%- 6.50%
IDFC First Bank Ltd.4.5%-5.75%
Jammu & Kashmir Bank Ltd.5.5%- 6.25%
Karnataka Bank Ltd6.25%-6.75%
Karur Vysya Bank Ltd.6%-7.4%
Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd6%-7%
Nainital bank Ltd.4.95%- 5.75%
RBL Bank Ltd.4.75%- 6.05%
South Indian Bank Ltd.4.50%-5%
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd.6.00%
YES Bank Ltd.5%-6.35%
Note- Data taken from respective bank’s website as on 03 Oct 2024.
Compiled by Bankbazaar.com