Knowing the Basics of a Post Office Savings Account
A Post Office Savings Account enables you to save money safely while earning interest at the rate notified by the Government of India from time to time (currently 4% p.a.). The account can be opened with a minimum amount of ₹500. You can make additional deposits of ₹10 or more, and there is no limit on the total balance you can hold in the account.
Opening a Post Office Account Online via IPPB
All those customers who want to open a post office account online using the IPPB Mobile Banking App can follow the steps below:
- Install the IPPB App: The IPPB app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store / Apple App Store.
- Opening an Account: Launch the app and tap ‘Open Your Account Now’.
- Confirm Your Mobile Number: Type in the code that has been sent to your registered mobile number.
- Full Aadhaar eKYC: Enter your Aadhaar number and authenticate it with OTP you receive on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Fill in Your Details: Enter the personal details, address and nominee details.
- Review and Submit: Verify the information entered and click Confirm to create your IPPB Digital Savings Account.
Note: A traditional Post Office Savings Account cannot be opened completely online. You will be required to visit your closest post office to file the application, undergo KYC checks and open an account.
Eligibility for a Post Office Savings Account
To open a Post Office Savings Account, the following are the eligibility requirements:
- The applicant should be an Indian resident.
- Adults, 18 years and older, can open an account in their own name.
- A minor of 10 years or older is allowed to open an account in his or her own name, but is subject to the rules.
Documents Required for Opening Post Office Account
Keep the following documents ready while opening a Post Office Savings Account:
- Duly filled account opening application form
- Duly filled KYC form
- PAN Card
- Proof of Identity and Address (any officially valid document accepted by India Post, such as):
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- Driving Licence
- Voter ID Card
- MNREGA Job Card
- Letter issued by the National Population Register (NPR)
Features and Benefits of a Post Office Savings Account
A Post Office Savings Account is an easy and secure method of saving money. These are some of its features and advantages:
- No minimum holding period: The money can be withdrawn any time but it is subject to the account rules.
- Transfer of accounts nationwide: Transfer of accounts between one branch of the post office and another can occur anywhere nationwide.
- Single and Joint Accounts: It can be opened in single or joint account in accordance with relevant rules.
- Nomination Facility: A nomination facility is available at the time of account opening and can also be updated later, subject to the applicable rules.
- Must keep account open: To keep the account active, at least one transaction should be carried out every three financial years.
Key Takeaways
You may open a Digital Savings Account online through IPPB app. Existing account holders can also avail themselves of online banking services, where applicable. If you want to open a traditional post office savings account, you are required to visit your nearest post office with the KYC documents for identification, age and address verification. It requires a minimum amount of ₹500 and provides an interest rate of 4% per annum.
FAQs
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How do you open a post office account?
In order to open a Post Office Savings Account, one needs to visit the post office with the necessary KYC documents, a duly filled account opening application form and a minimum initial deposit of ₹500. After verification of your documents, the account will be opened.
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Does a post office savings account have an ATM card?
Yes, you may apply for an ATM/Debit Card to your Post Office Savings Account, as per the terms and conditions of India Post.
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Is post office savings account online opening available?
A traditional Post Office Savings Account cannot be opened online. One must visit the Post Office in person to open an account and to verify their KYC. But you may open an India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) Digital Savings Account online in the IPPB Mobile Banking App.
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Which account is better to open at the post office?
It depends on your financial requirements and goals. A Post Office Savings Account can be more appropriate for you if you require an account to do your day-to-day banking and savings. The
Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) can be better adapted to those who want to get a fixed monthly income. When the target is long-term savings of a girl child,
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana could be more appropriate.