SSY Calculator
Best risk-free return for a girl child
SSY's 8.2% (Q1 FY25-26) beats FD, RD, PPF and most NSC options. The catch: you can't touch it until her 18th year even for emergencies. Budget only what you won't need.
Related tools
SSY vs PPF vs FD — girl child edition
- SSY @ 8.2%: highest guaranteed; 50% partial allowed at 18 for education; fully tax-free EEE
- PPF @ 7.1%: anyone's name, 15-year term, partial from year 7; EEE
- FD @ 6.5-7.5%: can break anytime but interest taxed; typically lowest net for 30% bracket
Frequently asked questions
Can I withdraw before 21 years?
Partial: 50% of the previous year-end balance, only for the girl's higher education, only after she turns 18. Full premature closure only for marriage after 18, or death/medical emergency. Otherwise locked for 21 years.
What if I stop depositing?
Minimum ₹250/year required. If missed, account becomes default — you can regularise by paying ₹250 per missed year + ₹50 penalty per default year. The account still earns the SSY rate during default.
What happens after maturity?
Account must be closed within 1 year of the girl turning 21 (or at her marriage after 18). You cannot extend. Funds can transfer to her PPF or bank account.
Is the 8.2% rate fixed for 21 years?
No — the Government revises SSY rates quarterly along with other small-savings schemes (PPF, NSC, KVP). The 8.2% shown is Q1 FY25-26; historically it has ranged from 7.6% to 9.2%. Long-term planning should use ~8% as a realistic average.
What is the current SSY interest rate?
8.2% per year for FY 2024-25, revised quarterly by the Ministry of Finance along with other small-savings schemes. Rates are government-set and typically exceed bank FD rates of comparable tenures, with full EEE tax exemption.
Can I withdraw from SSY before 21 years?
Partial withdrawal of up to 50% of the previous year-end balance is allowed after the girl turns 18, for education or marriage. Full premature closure is permitted on marriage after 18 (with documentation) or on compassionate grounds; otherwise the account matures at 21 years.