RD Calculator

Calculate Recurring Deposit maturity amount and interest earned

₹5,000
7% p.a.
24 months (2.0 yrs)

Maturity Amount

₹1,29,099

Total Deposited

₹1,20,000

Interest Earned

₹9,099

DepositedInterest

Month-wise Growth (first 24 months)

MonthTotal DepositedEstimated Balance
Month 1₹5,000₹5,029
Month 2₹10,000₹10,087
Month 3₹15,000₹15,175
Month 4₹20,000₹20,292
Month 5₹25,000₹25,438
Month 6₹30,000₹30,615
Month 7₹35,000₹35,821
Month 8₹40,000₹41,058
Month 9₹45,000₹46,325
Month 10₹50,000₹51,623
Month 11₹55,000₹56,951
Month 12₹60,000₹62,311
Month 13₹65,000₹67,701
Month 14₹70,000₹73,123
Month 15₹75,000₹78,576
Month 16₹80,000₹84,060
Month 17₹85,000₹89,577
Month 18₹90,000₹95,125
Month 19₹95,000₹1,00,706
Month 20₹1,00,000₹1,06,319
Month 21₹1,05,000₹1,11,965
Month 22₹1,10,000₹1,17,643
Month 23₹1,15,000₹1,23,354
Month 24₹1,20,000₹1,29,099

Recurring Deposit Guide — Disciplined Saving with Guaranteed Returns

A Recurring Deposit (RD) is the perfect savings instrument for individuals who want to save regularly but cannot commit a large lump sum. By depositing a fixed amount every month, you build a corpus over time while earning guaranteed interest — making it ideal for short-to-medium term financial goals.

How RD Interest is Calculated

RD interest is compounded quarterly in India. Each monthly installment earns interest from the date of deposit until maturity. The formula accounts for the fact that each installment has a different remaining tenure. The first installment earns interest for the full tenure, while the last installment earns interest for just one month.

RD vs FD — Key Differences

Investment Pattern: FD requires a lump sum upfront; RD requires monthly installments. RD is better for those without a large corpus but with regular income.

Interest Rates: FD rates are slightly higher than RD rates for the same tenure and bank. However, the difference is usually small (0.25–0.5%).

Flexibility: FD allows partial withdrawal in some cases; RD generally requires full tenure completion for maximum returns.

RD vs SIP — Which is Better?

RD offers guaranteed returns with zero market risk, making it suitable for short-term goals (1–3 years) and risk-averse investors. SIP in equity mutual funds offers potentially higher returns (10–15%) but with market risk, making it suitable for long-term goals (5+ years). For an emergency fund or a goal within 2 years, RD is the better choice. For retirement or long-term wealth creation, SIP wins.

Post Office RD — A Safe Alternative

The Post Office Recurring Deposit scheme offers 6.7% interest (2026) with sovereign guarantee. It has a 5-year tenure and minimum deposit of ₹100/month. It's an excellent option for those in areas with limited banking access or those who prefer government-backed instruments.

Tax on RD Interest

RD interest is taxable as per your income slab. Banks deduct TDS at 10% if total interest from all deposits exceeds ₹40,000 in a year (₹50,000 for senior citizens). Unlike PPF or ELSS, there is no tax exemption on RD interest. Factor in the post-tax return when comparing RD with other instruments.

Best Uses for RD

  • Building an emergency fund over 12–24 months
  • Saving for a vacation, gadget, or short-term purchase
  • Children's school fees or annual expenses
  • Down payment for a vehicle or home
  • Teaching financial discipline to young earners

Frequently Asked Questions