Fixed Deposits (FDs) have always been a popular and safe investment option, especially for senior citizens looking for secure and stable returns. With inflation concerns and market volatility, banks are now offering attractive interest rates on medium-term FDs—particularly on the 444-day tenure, which has emerged as a sweet spot in 2025.
Some Indian banks are now giving interest rates as high as 8.25% to senior citizens on 444-day FDs. This blog highlights everything you need to know about the best 444-day FD schemes, interest rates, benefits for senior citizens, and how to invest.
💼 Why 444-Day FD Schemes are Gaining Popularity
The 444-day FD tenure (around 14.5 months) is unique and often offered as a special or promotional scheme by banks. Here’s why it’s a smart choice:
- Higher interest than regular 1-year FDs
- Short enough to maintain liquidity
- Eligible for senior citizen interest bonuses
- Ideal for retirement planning and monthly income
🏦 Top Banks Offering Best 444-Day FD Rates for Senior Citizens (2025)
Let’s look at some top Indian banks offering highest FD interest rates on a 444-day tenure specifically for senior citizens:
| Bank Name | Regular Rate | Senior Citizen Rate | Tenure |
|---|---|---|---|
| IDFC FIRST Bank | 7.75% | 8.25% | 444 days |
| Yes Bank | 7.50% | 8.00% | 444 days |
| RBL Bank | 7.60% | 8.10% | 444 days |
| DCB Bank | 7.25% | 7.75% | 444 days |
| IndusInd Bank | 7.40% | 8.00% | 444 days |
| Axis Bank (promo) | 7.10% | 7.60% | 444 days |
💡 Note: These rates are as per the latest updates from respective banks in 2025 and may vary by region and deposit amount.
🎯 Key Benefits for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens enjoy several benefits when investing in FDs compared to regular investors:
- Higher Interest Rates (up to 0.75% extra)
- Quarterly/Monthly Interest Payouts for regular income
- Preferential Processing in banks
- Auto-renewal and nomination features
- Tax benefits on select FDs under Section 80C (for 5-year FDs)
🧮 FD Calculation: How Much Will You Earn?
Let’s assume a senior citizen deposits ₹5,00,000 in a 444-day FD at 8.25% interest (IDFC FIRST Bank):
- Principal: ₹5,00,000
- Tenure: 444 days (~1 year 2 months)
- Interest Rate: 8.25% p.a.
- Interest Earned: ~₹50,274 (approx.)
- Maturity Amount: ₹5,50,274
You can also choose monthly interest payout for regular income needs instead of cumulative maturity.
📋 Eligibility Criteria for Senior Citizen FD
To be eligible for the special interest rate under the Senior Citizen FD scheme, you must:
- Be 60 years or older (in most cases, 55+ for super senior citizen benefits in some banks)
- Have a savings or FD account with the respective bank
- Provide valid age proof documents (Aadhaar, PAN, Senior Citizen Card)
Some banks also offer online booking for FD accounts via net banking or mobile apps.
🏁 How to Open a 444-Day FD
Opening a 444-day fixed deposit is easy and can be done online or offline:
1. Online Method
- Log in to your bank’s net banking portal or app
- Go to “Fixed Deposits” section
- Select tenure (444 days), amount, and interest payout option
- Confirm and authorize the payment
2. Offline Method
- Visit your nearest bank branch
- Fill up the FD form
- Submit age proof and KYC documents
- Deposit amount via cheque or transfer
🔄 Cumulative vs. Monthly Interest FD – What Should You Choose?
| Type | Best For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cumulative FD | Long-term growth without liquidity needs | Higher maturity amount due to interest compounding |
| Monthly Interest | Senior citizens needing regular income | Monthly interest credited to savings account |
Senior citizens depending on pension or fixed income often prefer monthly interest payouts.
⚖️ Is the 444-Day FD Better Than Other Options?
Here’s how the 444-day FD stacks up against other short-term investment options:
| Investment Option | Risk Level | Interest (2025) | Liquidity | Taxable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 444-Day FD | Very Low | 7.75%–8.25% | Medium | Yes (TDS) |
| Savings Account | Low | 3.0%–4.0% | High | Yes |
| Post Office Time Deposit | Very Low | ~7.5% | Medium | Yes |
| Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) | Very Low | 8.20% | Locked for 5 years | Yes |
✔️ Verdict: 444-day FD offers a sweet spot between safety, liquidity, and returns.
💸 TDS & Tax Implications
- TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is applicable if interest earned exceeds ₹50,000 in a financial year for senior citizens.
- To avoid TDS, submit Form 15H (senior citizens) at your bank at the start of the financial year.
- FD interest is fully taxable under “Income from Other Sources.”
📢 Final Thoughts: Safe and Profitable Investment for Retirees
The 444-day Fixed Deposit schemes launched by several leading banks are an excellent opportunity for senior citizens to earn high interest without taking any risk.
Whether you’re a retired professional, pensioner, or someone looking to secure returns on a lump sum, this FD can be a great addition to your financial plan in 2025.
With interest rates up to 8.25%, low-risk investment, flexible payout options, and easy online booking, BSNL’s 444-day FD is a powerful financial tool for India’s elderly.
