Savings Comparison
Fixed Deposit vs Recurring Deposit
Lump-sum compounding vs disciplined monthly savings. Compare tenures, interest yield dynamics, and taxation models to select the right deposit structure.
Lump-Sum vs Installment
Lock in large lump-sums at once using Fixed Deposits, or build up capital progressively with Recurring Deposits.
Interest Yield Differences
FDs yield slightly higher overall interest since the entire principal earns compounding margins from the start date.
Identical Tax Rules
Interest earnings on both FD and RD accounts are fully taxed according to your individual income tax slab rates.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Fixed Deposit vs Recurring Deposit
Review the structural differences between these secure bank deposit products:
| Feature | Fixed Deposit (FD) | Recurring Deposit (RD) |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit Type | Lump-Sum (One-time payment) | Installment (Regular monthly payouts) |
| Minimum Investment | Usually starts at ₹1,000 to ₹10,000 | Starts very low (typically ₹100 or ₹500/month) |
| Tenure Structure | Ranges from 7 days up to 10 years | Ranges from 6 months up to 10 years |
| Interest Payout | Paid out monthly, quarterly, or accumulated at maturity | Paid out only as accumulated total at maturity |
| TDS Threshold | Exempt below ₹40,000 p.a. (₹50,000 for senior citizens) | Identical threshold of ₹40,000/₹50,000 p.a. |
FAQs
FD Vs RD FAQs
Find immediate answers regarding FD vs RD deposits.
What is the difference between FD and RD?
In a **Fixed Deposit (FD)**, you invest a lump-sum amount of money once for a fixed tenure. In a **Recurring Deposit (RD)**, you commit to depositing a fixed, smaller amount of money every month for a pre-determined tenure.
Which yields more interest: FD or RD?
If the interest rate is identical, a **Fixed Deposit (FD)** yields higher absolute returns because the entire principal amount earns compounding interest from day one. In a **Recurring Deposit (RD)**, the first installment earns interest for the full tenure, while subsequent monthly deposits earn interest for progressively shorter periods.
Is TDS applicable on Recurring Deposits?
Yes, TDS guidelines for RDs are identical to FDs. Banks are mandated to deduct 10% TDS if the total interest earned on RDs and FDs combined in a bank exceeds ₹40,000 in a financial year (or ₹50,000 for senior citizens).
