About the RD/FD Maturity Calculator
This calculator estimates the maturity value of a fixed deposit, showing how a lump sum grows with compound interest over a chosen term. It returns both the interest earned and the final maturity amount, helping you see exactly what a deposit will be worth when it matures.
How fixed deposit interest compounds
Indian fixed deposits typically compound quarterly, meaning interest is calculated and added to the balance four times a year. Each quarter, the new interest earns interest in the following quarters, so the balance grows faster than simple interest would suggest. The calculator applies quarterly compounding using the principal, the annual rate, and the term in years to produce the maturity value. The longer the term and the higher the rate, the more pronounced the compounding effect becomes.
Fixed deposits versus recurring deposits
A fixed deposit is a single lump sum locked in for a set period. A recurring deposit instead takes a fixed amount every month, with each installment earning interest for the time remaining until maturity. They suit different situations: an FD is for money you already have and want to park safely, while an RD is for building savings gradually from monthly income. This calculator models the lump-sum FD case; the maturity of a recurring deposit follows a different, installment-based formula.
Why deposits remain popular
Fixed and recurring deposits are favoured by conservative savers because the returns are guaranteed and the capital is safe, unlike market-linked investments. They are predictable, easy to understand, and useful for goals with a known date, such as a planned purchase or an emergency reserve. The trade-off is that returns are generally lower than riskier assets and may not always outpace inflation.
Tips and caveats
The maturity figure shown is before tax. Interest earned on deposits is taxable, and banks may deduct tax at source once interest crosses a threshold, so your actual receipt may be lower. Rates also vary by bank and tenure, and breaking a deposit early usually attracts a penalty and a reduced rate. Enter the rate your bank actually offers for your chosen term. For market-linked alternatives that may yield more with added risk, see the SIP Calculator, and for the government-backed long-term option, the PPF Calculator. All calculations happen in your browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
What compounding is assumed?
Quarterly compounding, the common convention for Indian fixed deposits.
Does this cover recurring deposits?
This version models a lump-sum FD. RD with monthly deposits is a separate calculation.
Is TDS deducted?
No. The maturity value is before any tax deducted at source.
Can I change compounding frequency?
This version uses quarterly; the maturity changes slightly with other frequencies.
Where does it run?
In your browser only.