Senior Citizen FD Rates 2025: Top PSU Banks Offering Highest Returns On 10-Year Deposits

For many senior citizens, stability and assured income are key priorities in financial planning after retirement. Fixed deposits remain among the most preferred options due to their predictable returns and minimal risk. Public sector banks continue to attract retirees by offering higher interest rates to senior citizens compared to regular customers. According to experts, this preferential rate structure not only ensures safety but also provides an effective means of generating steady post-retirement income.
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Why Senior Citizens Prefer Fixed Deposits

Fixed deposits have long been considered one of the safest investment options in India. Unlike market-linked instruments, FDs guarantee a fixed rate of return over a specified tenure. Senior citizens, in particular, are drawn to this security, as it ensures predictable earnings without exposure to market fluctuations.

Most public sector banks provide an additional interest rate benefit, typically ranging between 0.25 and 0.75 per cent higher than the standard rate. This small yet significant difference helps retirees earn more while keeping their capital safe. The interest can be received at regular intervals—monthly, quarterly, or annually—or accumulated and paid at maturity, depending on the investor’s preference.


Top PSU Banks Offering The Highest FD Returns

Among the top public sector banks, the interest rates for senior citizens on long-term deposits are competitive, especially for tenures extending up to ten years.

The Bank of Baroda currently offers senior citizens an interest rate of 7 per cent on a 10-year deposit. A ₹10 lakh investment in this tenure would grow to about ₹20,01,597 at maturity.


The State Bank of India, the country’s largest public sector lender, offers a slightly higher return of 7.05 per cent for the same tenure. A senior citizen investing ₹10 lakh for ten years would receive a maturity amount of roughly ₹20,11,457, reflecting the advantage of long-term compounding at a stable rate.

Canara Bank provides a 6.75 per cent interest rate for senior citizen fixed deposits of ten years, where the same investment of ₹10 lakh would yield approximately ₹19,53,003 at the end of the term.

Punjab National Bank offers a 6.80 per cent rate for senior citizens, leading to a maturity amount of about ₹19,62,629 for a ₹10 lakh deposit over ten years.

Indian Overseas Bank, on the other hand, offers 6.70 per cent interest for senior citizens with the same tenure. A ₹10 lakh fixed deposit here would grow to nearly ₹19,43,423 upon maturity.


Flexibility And Early Withdrawal Options

Experts note that while FDs are designed for fixed terms, senior citizens retain flexibility through the option of premature withdrawal. Most banks allow early closure before the full tenure, though a small penalty is typically applied. This feature helps retirees manage unforeseen financial needs without having to liquidate all investments at once.

Additionally, investors can also take advantage of the tax benefits associated with fixed deposits. Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, investments in tax-saving FDs with a minimum lock-in period of five years are eligible for deductions up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year.

Choosing The Right FD For Long-Term Security

Selecting the right bank and tenure plays an important role in maximising returns and ensuring liquidity. Experts suggest comparing not just interest rates but also compounding frequency, premature withdrawal conditions, and senior citizen benefits offered by different banks.

For retirees looking for consistent income, choosing a monthly or quarterly interest payout option is often ideal. On the other hand, those who do not require regular cash flow may opt for reinvestment schemes that compound the interest until maturity, resulting in a higher final payout.

While FDs may not match the returns of market-linked instruments such as mutual funds or equities, their low-risk profile makes them a dependable choice, particularly for conservative investors in their retirement years.


The Bottom Line

Fixed deposits offered by public sector banks continue to be a cornerstone of financial security for senior citizens. With interest rates crossing the 7 per cent mark at several institutions, long-term investors can look forward to predictable growth and peace of mind. According to experts, FDs remain a vital component of a balanced post-retirement portfolio, combining safety, steady income, and partial tax efficiency.

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be considered investment advice. Interest rates are subject to change as per bank policies. Investors are advised to consult a certified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.