The Public Provident Fund

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a savings-cum-tax-saving instrument in India introduced by the National Savings Institute of the Ministry of Finance in 1968. The main objective of this scheme is to mobilize small savings by offering an investment with reasonable returns combined with income tax benefits.The scheme is guaranteed by the central government. Public Provident Fund Scheme, 2019 is the amendment of the 1968 scheme, introduced by the Government on 12 December 2019.

How beneficial investing is in PPF?

Minimum deposit requirements for PPF is ₹500 and maximum can be ₹1.5 lacs per financial year. A person holding PPF earns interest on deposited amount. The interest amount is being announced by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India every quarter. Total interest earned by individuals during the financial year are paid in March collectively. Interest is calculated on the lowest balance between the close of the fifth day and the last day of every month. The interest rate usually ranges between 7-10%. The recent interest rate from April 2022- June2022 is 7.1%. whereas in April 2021-March 2022 was 7.1% also. Till now from 1986, the highest interest rate has been 12%, which was from April 1968- January 2000. After that, it keeps on decreasing but yet it is beneficial for long term investing in small amounts.

What can be done with PPF on maturity?

There are generally 3 options which can be opted once our PPF gets matured. They are as follows:-

• You can completely withdraw your deposited amount along with interest earned.
• You can keep your account with the amount without any withdrawal, also without depositing any further amounts. Under this method, you can withdraw the amount of your choice once in a year and the rest of the amount will keep earning interest. This can be a good option for those who don't want to further contribute to the PPF.
• You can keep your account and keep on investing in it. Under this option, you have to submit one form to the bank to keep on investing in your PPF account. This form submission has to be done within one year of maturity. After availing this option, you can withdraw a maximum 60% of the amount in your account at the beginning of this option. After that, one yearly withdrawal is permitted. This option is good for those who are not in need of money and can keep on investing also for their future or for their future generations.

How does PensionBox help you with your PPF account?

PensionBox helps you to track how your funds allocated towards PPF are performing. Through our app, you can easily track your retirement savings and can figure out how much you need to save to reach your dream retirement goal.