Understanding The Pros And Cons Of An FD

Benefits of Fixed Deposits
Disadvantages Of Fixed Deposit
Conclusion

Bank Fixed Deposits have been the best option for our parents and their ancestors when it comes to retirement or savings for the future. Over time, there have been various modifications in fixed deposit (FD) as an investment option, in terms of accessibility to the customers.

Here is a detailed analysis of the benefits and downside of investing your hard-earned money in FD. And other options that one can consider other than a bank FD.

Benefits of Fixed Deposits

While the interest may not be higher when compared to equity mutual funds or investment in the stock market, bank FDs give comfort in terms of low risk compared to other market-linked investment options and guarantee capital returns at maturity. Here are a few benefits of fixed deposits.

Interest Payouts

Interest payouts can be fixed on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis based on the needs of the consumer. Alternatively, it can be renewed at maturity along with the principal amount to be continued as FD.

Tax Saving FD

There are tax-saving fixed deposits as well that are eligible under section 80C of the income tax act, It is one of the many investment options under 80C that collectively offer an option for income deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh. Tax saving FDs have a lock-in period of 5 years.

Deposit Insurance

As per the latest amendment in DICGC Act, an account holder can access up to Rs 5 lakh maximum as insurance within 90 days of a bank (excluding NBFCs) if it has been put under moratorium due to unusual closure of business.

Tax Benefit For Senior Citizens

Fixed Deposit interest earned by a senior citizen has an exemption limit up to Rs 50,000 on income earned. Interest rates are also higher for deposits for senior citizens.

Loan Against Bank FD

One can avail loan against the FD and almost all the banks offer this service. The loan amount is based on the deposit value and tenure of the FD. However, do check with your bank about the rules around this facility. Interest on such a loan can be as high as 10% as well.

Disadvantages Of Fixed Deposit

Though fixed deposits are less volatile and come at minimum risks, it is not considered as a top investment option as it has a few downsides.

Fails To Counter Inflation Risk

Interest rates of FDs remain fixed for the tenure of the deposit. They are not dynamic in nature. So, if your FD gives you 5% interest but the inflation rate in the economy is 6%, you are probably receiving negative interest on your investment in the FD.

Penalty On Premature Closure

If you want to withdraw money before the tenure ends, you may be charged for pre-closure as a penalty and the interest earned so far may also be deducted before crediting the principal amount.

Taxable

In the case of customers aged below 60 years (other than senior citizens), the interest earned on FDs attract TDS (tax deducted at source) of 10% if the interest earned is beyond Rs 40,000, though such amount is adjusted from the filing of returns.

Fixed-rate Of Interest

Generally the interest rate on fixed deposits is fixed till the tenure of a particular fixed deposit. Hence, they can not enjoy the benefit of higher interest if there is an increase in interest rates in the market.

Conclusion

So, whether one should invest in a bank FD should depend on two main factors. One, the risk appetite of an individual. If he or she is highly conservative and interested in safeguarding the capital invested, then bank FDs are among such options. Two, the choice of going for FD as an investment option should depend on the financial need. Bank FDs can be easily liquidated at any point in time and can come in handy in case of any financial emergencies.