9 Important Things to Know before Opening an FD Account

Here are certain things that you must know before investing in an FD account:

1. Interest Rates & Senior Citizens Benefit: 

   The rate is fixed for the tenure and varies across banks and tenures. For instance, SBI fixed deposit rates will vary from ICICI FD rates for the same duration of Fixed Deposit. Senior citizens receive a higher interest rate (0.50% higher) than the general public. 

2. Tenure Flexibility: 

   FDs are available for specified periods, ranging from as short as 7 days up to 10 years. Choose a tenure that perfectly aligns with your financial goal.

3. Minimum Deposit Amount: 

   This varies greatly by bank. While most major banks have a low minimum (e.g., ₹1,000 or ₹10,000), it's essential to check the specific limit before investing.

4. Payout Option (Cumulative vs. Non-Cumulative):

   • Cumulative (Maturity Option): Interest is compounded and paid only at maturity. Ideal for long-term wealth building.
   • Non-Cumulative (Income Option): Interest is paid out regularly (monthly/quarterly/annually). Ideal for regular income needs (e.g., retirees).

5. Premature Withdrawal Penalty: 

   FDs can usually be broken before maturity in an emergency, but this almost always attracts a penalty (reducing the interest rate for the period held). Be aware of this penalty clause.

6. Loan/Overdraft Facility: 

   The FD can be used as collateral to get a overdraft facility or loan against FD,  typically covering 75% to 90% of the deposit value, offering liquidity without breaking the FD.

7. Taxation (TDS & Form 15G/15H): 

   The interest earned is fully taxable as per your income tax slab. Banks deduct TDS if the annual interest exceeds (₹40,000 and ₹50,000 for senior citizens). You must submit Form 15G/15H to avoid TDS deduction if your total income is below the taxable limit.

8. Nomination Facility: 

   Always utilize the nomination facility. This ensures that in the event of the depositor's death, the maturity amount is smoothly transferred to the nominated person.

9. Automatic Renewal: 

   Most banks set FDs for automatic renewal upon maturity for the same tenure and at the then-prevailing interest rate. If you plan to withdraw the funds, you must explicitly instruct the bank to opt out of auto-renewal.

Key characteristics of FD Account

• Higher Interest Rates: FD interest rates are typically higher compared to a regular savings account.
• Predictability: The funds are invested for a pre-determined duration, and the returns are fixed, aiding in achieving long-term goals like securing a child's education or planning for future expenses.
• Maturity & Withdrawal: The principal amount and accumulated interest are easily withdrawn upon the completion of the maturity period. Note that while premature withdrawal is generally penalized, some banks offer this facility without a penalty on certain schemes.

Conclusion

The Fixed Deposit is a secure, popular financial instrument offering predictability and higher interest rates. Key factors to manage include choosing the right tenure (7 days to 10 years) and payout option, and being aware of the higher rates for senior citizens. Investors must confirm the minimum deposit and understand the penalty for premature withdrawal. Successfully utilizing an FD requires managing the tax liability (TDS), and giving explicit instructions regarding automatic renewal.