RD vs FD: Full Meaning, Features, Advantages, and Which Is Better
Interest rates in 2026 have been decent enough to make FDs and RDs worth a serious look again. Small finance banks are offering up to 8.75% on FDs, and RD rates are not far behind. But if you have ever sat down to actually choose between the two, you know the rate is not really where the confusion is. The real question is simpler: do you have a chunk of money ready to park right now, or are you someone who saves a little every month and wants to make sure it actually goes somewhere? Answer that honestly, and the choice between RD and FD basically makes itself. In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about RD vs FD.
RD vs FD in 2026: Interest Rates, Taxation Rules and Which Option Gives Better Returns
The real difference between RD and FD is not only the interest rate. It is the timing of capital and the behaviour pattern. If you already have funds available, FD maximises compounding efficiency. If you need structure to build savings, RD creates discipline
It is important to remember that even if TDS is not deducted, the interest remains fully taxable and must be declared while filing your income tax return.
| Basis | Fixed Deposit (FD) – 2026 | Recurring Deposit (RD) – 2026 |
| Interest Rate Range (General Banks) | Approximately 6.00% to 7.50% per annum | Approximately 5.50% to 7.25% per annum |
| Interest Rate (Small Finance Banks) | Can go up to 8.00% to 8.75% per annum | Usually up to 8.00% per annum |
| Mode of Investment | One-time lump sum deposit | Fixed monthly instalments |
| Interest Calculation | Calculated on the full deposited amount for the entire tenure | Calculated on each monthly instalment separately |
| Effective Returns | Generally higher due to the full amount earning interest from day one | Slightly lower than the FD of the same tenure |
| Tax Treatment | Fully taxable under “Income from Other Sources” | Fully taxable under “Income from Other Sources” |
| TDS Deduction | 10% TDS if annual interest exceeds ₹40,000 (₹50,000 for senior citizens) | Same as FD: 10% TDS above ₹40,000 (₹50,000 for senior citizens) |
| TDS Exemption | Form 15G (non-senior citizens) / Form 15H (senior citizens) can be submitted | Same provision as FD |
| Tax Saving Benefit | 5-year tax-saving FD eligible under Section 80C (up to ₹1.5 lakh deduction) | No tax deduction benefit under Section 80C |
| Best Suitable For | Investors with surplus lump sum funds | Individuals building savings through disciplined monthly deposits |
Disclaimer: Tax rules and reporting norms are subject to change. Always verify the latest guidelines or consult a qualified tax professional before making financial decisions.
What is a Fixed Deposit
FD’s full form is Fixed Deposit.
It is a one-time lump sum investment parked with a bank or NBFC for a fixed tenure at a predetermined interest rate. The interest rate remains constant throughout the tenure, which means predictability.
If someone receives a bonus, maturity proceeds from another investment, or has idle savings sitting in a savings account earning minimal interest, an FD becomes the simplest way to make that money work without taking market risk.
Key Features of FD
• One-time lump sum deposit
• Fixed interest rate for the chosen tenure
• Tenure ranging from 7 days to 10 years
• Higher compounding advantage because the entire principal earns interest from day one
• Loan facility available against the FD
• Interest is taxable as per the income slab
Fixed Deposit Advantages
- Park a lump sum and earn up to 8% p.a. as of February 2026, with small finance banks leading on rates.
- Pick how you want your interest paid, monthly, quarterly, or at maturity, based on what suits your cash flow.
- Tax-saving FDs get you a deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C.
- Your money is insured up to Rs. 5 lakh under DICGC, so there’s a solid safety net.
- Need cash urgently? Pledge your FD as collateral and get a loan without losing your interest
The biggest advantage of an FD is psychological comfort. You know exactly what you will receive at maturity. There is no volatility, no tracking, no market anxiety.
However, predictability does not mean tax efficiency. If the total interest earned exceeds the prescribed threshold, banks deduct TDS. Even if TDS is not deducted, the interest remains taxable.
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What is a Recurring Deposit
A Recurring Deposit, or RD, is designed for people who do not have a lump sum but have discipline. Instead of investing a large amount at once, you commit to depositing a fixed amount every month for a predetermined tenure.
It mirrors a SIP mindset, but without market exposure.
Key Features of RD
• Fixed monthly contribution
• Fixed interest rate decided at the time of opening
• Tenure generally from 6 months to 10 years
• Interest compounds on each monthly instalment
• Penalty applicable if instalments are delayed
• Interest is taxable
Unlike FD, where the full principal earns from day one, in RD, each monthly deposit earns interest only for the remaining tenure. That is why the total maturity value is usually lower than investing the same amount upfront in an FD.
Can I withdraw an RD anytime?
Yes, a Recurring Deposit can be withdrawn before maturity, but it comes with conditions.
Most banks allow premature closure of an RD; however, the interest is usually recalculated at a lower rate, and a small penalty may be applied. If the RD is closed very early, especially within the first month, some banks may return only the principal amount without paying any interest.
Can we convert RD into FD?
Yes, you can convert a Recurring Deposit into a Fixed Deposit, but usually only after the RD matures. Once the RD tenure ends, the total maturity amount, including principal and interest, can be reinvested as a lump sum into an FD.
Most banks also allow premature closure of the RD, after which you can use the withdrawn amount to open an FD. However, premature closure may attract a penalty and lower interest.
Can I cancel an RD?
Yes, you can close a Recurring Deposit before its maturity. This is known as premature closure. However, banks usually charge a penalty of around 0.5 percent to 1 percent, which is deducted from the applicable interest rate. T
Can we skip an RD instalment?
Yes, you can skip an instalment, but it is not advisable in a standard Recurring Deposit. Banks typically charge a small penalty for missed payments, often calculated per ₹1000 of instalment amount for each month of delay.
How much penalty for breaking RD?
Most banks reduce the applicable interest rate by 0.5% to 2% on premature withdrawal. The principal remains intact, but interest is recalculated at the lower rate.
Can I reduce my RD amount?
No, the monthly instalment amount in an RD is fixed at the time of opening the account. To change the amount, the existing RD must be closed, and a new one opened, usually with applicable penalties.
But here is the deeper truth. RD is not about returns. It is about behaviour. It forces structure into inconsistent cash flows.
Recurring Deposit Advantages (RD)
- Start with just Rs. 100 a month, no lump sum needed, just a steady saving habit.
- Earn between 4% to 8.50% p.a. with returns that are fully guaranteed, no market risk.
- Senior citizens get an extra 0.50% on top of the standard rate.
- Pick a tenure anywhere from 6 months to 10 years, depending on your goal.
- NRIs can open an NRE RD in Indian rupees, and the interest earned is tax-free in India.
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RD vs FD- So Which One Should You Choose
Choose FD if:
• You have a lump sum amount available
• You want assured returns without a monthly commitment
• You need a predictable maturity value for a specific date
• You may need a loan against the deposit
Choose RD if:
• You earn monthly and want forced savings
• You are building a short-term goal fund gradually
• You struggle to retain money in your savings account
• You prefer structured discipline
Before choosing between RD and FD, ask yourself three questions:
- Do I already have the full amount ready
- Is my income stable enough for a monthly commitment
- What is the purpose and time horizon of this money
Money decisions are rarely about which product is better. They are about which structure aligns with your current reality.
If you are building discipline, RD can train you.
If you are protecting capital, an FD can anchor you.
And if you are building wealth long term, you will eventually need to look beyond both.
FD vs RD – FAQs
FD is better for lump sum investors seeking higher effective returns from full principal compounding. RD basically suits salaried individuals building savings monthly. The right choice in 2026 depends entirely on your cash flow and financial discipline.
At 7% per annum (compounded quarterly, as most Indian banks apply), a ₹1,000/month RD over 5 years grows to approximately ₹71,895 at maturity. Your total principal is ₹60,000.
A cumulative RD is generally better as it allows compounding benefits. This is beacuse, interest is paid at maturity. Rates in 2026 typically range between 6% and 8%.
RD accounts offer lower returns than equity or mutual funds. They also charge penalties for premature withdrawals which actually limits the liquidity. Fixed interest rates can expose investors to inflation risk.
Bank FDs in India are insured up to ₹5 lakh per depositor per bank under the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation. For full safety on ₹1 crore, the amount should be spread across multiple banks.
No scheduled commercial bank offers 9.5% FD interest in 2026. Even high-yield small finance banks generally offer a maximum of around 8% to 8.75%, depending on tenure.
