About PPF Calculator
Public Provident Fund (PPF) is one of India's most popular tax-saving investment schemes. It offers guaranteed returns backed by the Government of India, and is completely tax-free under the EEE (Exempt-Exempt-Exempt) status โ deposits qualify for 80C deduction, interest is tax-free, and maturity amount is tax-free.
Key PPF rules: Minimum โน500/year, maximum โน1.5 lakh/year. Lock-in period of 15 years with extension in 5-year blocks. Partial withdrawal allowed from 7th year. Loan facility available from 3rd to 6th year. Interest is calculated on minimum balance between 5th and end of each month.
Authority: NSI India ยท Rate updated: Q1 2025 (JanuaryโMarch)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current PPF interest rate in 2025?+
The PPF interest rate for Q1 2025 (JanuaryโMarch 2025) is 7.1% per annum, compounded annually. The rate is reviewed quarterly by the Government of India.
What is the maximum PPF investment limit?+
The maximum PPF investment is โน1.5 lakh per financial year (April to March). Minimum is โน500/year. Investment above โน1.5L in a year earns no interest on the excess.
Can I withdraw PPF before 15 years?+
Partial withdrawal is allowed from the 7th year โ up to 50% of the balance at the end of 4th year or the immediately preceding year, whichever is lower. Premature closure is allowed only in specific circumstances like life-threatening illness.
When should I deposit in PPF for maximum interest?+
Deposit between 1st and 5th of April (beginning of financial year) to earn interest for the full year. Interest is calculated on minimum balance between 5th and last day of each month.
Is PPF better than FD?+
PPF offers tax-free returns (EEE), FD returns are fully taxable. At 30% slab, PPF's effective return after tax equals FD rate of ~10.1%. PPF is better for long-term wealth building but FD offers more liquidity.