Who Can Open a Recurring Deposit (RD) Account?

A Recurring Deposit (RD) is a flexible and safe investment option that allows individuals to save regularly while earning guaranteed returns. While RDs are widely accessible, they come with specific criteria for who can open an account. If you're wondering whether you are eligible to open an RD account, here’s a detailed look at the eligibility requirements:

1. Indian Residents

Resident Indians are eligible to open a Recurring Deposit account. An RD is designed primarily for individuals who are residing in India, and the account can be opened with any scheduled commercial bank or post office.

• Individual Account: A single individual can open an RD account in their name.

• Joint Account: Multiple individuals can also open an RD account jointly. In such cases, the account will be operated by the first holder, and the second holder will have joint rights.

2. Minors (With a Guardian)

Minors can also open a Recurring Deposit account. However, since minors cannot operate a bank account independently, a guardian (usually a parent) must open the account on their behalf.

• Parent or Legal Guardian: A parent or legal guardian is required to open the RD account on behalf of the minor. The minor becomes the beneficial owner of the account, and the guardian will manage the account until the minor turns 18.

3. Senior Citizens

Senior citizens (aged 60 years and above) can open a recurring deposit account and enjoy additional benefits, such as higher interest rates compared to regular depositors. Banks and financial institutions often offer a special interest rate for senior citizens on RD accounts.

• Tax Benefits: Senior citizens can also benefit from tax exemptions under Section 80TTB of the Income Tax Act on interest income earned from RDs, subject to the limit of ₹50,000 per year.

4. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)

While the regular Recurring Deposit accounts are for resident Indians, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can open an RD account in the form of an NRE (Non-Resident External) RD or NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) RD account, depending on their requirements.

• NRE RD Account: This type of account is for NRIs who want to save and earn interest in India. The funds in an NRE RD are fully repatriable, and the interest earned is tax-free in India.

• NRO RD Account: This type of account is for NRIs who wish to deposit income earned in India. The interest earned on an NRO RD is subject to tax in India.

5. Hindu Undivided Families (HUF)

A Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), which is a traditional family structure in India, can open an RD account. The Karta (head of the family) operates the account on behalf of the family members.

• Taxation for HUF: The interest earned on an HUF's RD is subject to taxation based on the HUF’s income tax bracket.

6. Partnership Firms and Companies

Partnership firms and companies can also open a recurring deposit account in their name. The account is operated by the authorized signatories of the firm or the company.

• Business Use: These RDs can be used to park the business’s surplus funds, earning fixed returns over a period.

• Tax Treatment: Interest earned by the firm or company will be subject to business taxation as per the prevailing tax laws.

7. Trusts

Trusts can open a recurring deposit account, provided they fulfill the conditions set by the bank. The person or organization acting as the trustee will be responsible for operating the account.

• Specialized Accounts: Trusts are often required to submit documents like the trust deed and proof of registration to open an RD account.

8. Resident and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) – Eligibility for Foreign Currency RD Accounts

Certain banks also allow Foreign Currency Recurring Deposit Accounts (FCRDs) for NRIs who wish to hold their deposits in foreign currencies. These accounts function similarly to RDs but in a currency of choice, like the US Dollar (USD) or Euro.

• FCRDs for NRIs: These accounts are specifically available for NRIs to avoid currency exchange risks and earn interest in their preferred currency.

Conclusion:

In summary, Recurring Deposit (RD) accounts can be opened by a wide range of individuals, including resident Indians, minors (with a guardian), senior citizens, non-resident Indians (NRIs), Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs), partnership firms, companies, and trusts. With flexible options and an easy process for opening an RD, it’s a great tool for disciplined saving and earning fixed returns.

If you fit into one of these categories and are looking for a risk-free, low-maintenance way to save and earn, a Recurring Deposit could be the right choice for you. Ensure that you choose the right tenure and deposit amount that suits your financial goals for a secure and profitable future.