The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) is primarily for the senior citizens of India. This scheme offers a regular stream of income with the highest safety and tax saving benefits. It is a choice of investment for those over 60 years of age.
What is the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)?
The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS), launched in 2004 under the post office savings umbrella, aims to offer financial stability to retirees through a secure, government-backed investment. Open to individuals aged 60 and above, SCSS accounts can be initiated at post offices or authorized banks, either singly or jointly. The scheme currently offers an interest rate of 8.2% (for the ongoing quarter), supports deposits up to ₹30 lakh, and has a 5-year tenure extendable by 3 years. While it qualifies for tax deductions under Section 80C, the interest earned is fully taxable.
Features of the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme
Feature |
Details |
Tenure |
5 years |
Interest rate |
8.2% p.a. (2025-26) |
Minimum investment |
Rs. 1,000 |
Maximum investment |
Rs. 30,00,000 |
Tax benefits |
Up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C |
Compounding |
Quarterly and Paid |
- Guaranteed returns: As a government-backed instrument, the SCSS provides assured returns, offering a secure investment option compared to market-linked investments.
- Maturity period: The SCSS scheme has a fixed maturity period of 5 years, but individuals have the option to extend it for an additional 3 years by submitting Form B at concerned post office.
- Deposit limits: To open an account under the Senior Citizen Scheme, a minimum deposit of Rs. 1,000 is necessary, and there is a maximum deposit limit is Rs. 30 lakh.
- Prematurely withdrawal: If you prematurely withdraw your amount before completion of 1 year, you won't get any interest, if you withdraw it after 1 year but before 2 years, a 1.5% penalty is charged from the principal amount and if you withdraw after 2 years but before 5 years, a 1% penalty is charged.
- Nomination option: Account holders can nominate a beneficiary for the Senior Citizens Saving Scheme, so if the account holder passes away before the account matures, the nominee will receive the due amount.
SCSS latest interest rate
The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) offers an interest rate of 8.2% per annum for the second quarter of the financial year 2025–26. This rate is valid from July 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme Interest Payout Schedule
Quarter |
Interest Payout Date |
April – June |
1st July |
July – September |
1st October |
October – December |
1st January |
January – March |
1st April |