PPF vs FD · Tax-Adjusted Returns · India 2026

PPF vs FD Calculator —
Which Wins After Tax?

PPF earns 7.1% completely tax-free. FD earns 7.5% but interest is fully taxable. Which is better depends on your income tax slab. Find out instantly.

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For 30% slab investors: FD at 7.5% gives only 5.18% effective post-tax return — lower than PPF's 7.1%. For 0% slab (below exemption limit): FD at 7.5% beats PPF. The crossover is around the 12% slab.
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Comparison Inputs
Annual Investment
1,00,000
₹10K₹1.5L
Investment Period
15 years
3 yrs30 yrs
PPF Rate
7.1%
6%9%
FD Rate
7.5%
5%10%
Your Tax Slab
Winner
PPF
gives more after tax
PPF Maturity
₹0
PPF Tax
₹0 (exempt)
FD Maturity
₹0
FD After Tax
₹0
Year-by-Year PPF vs FD (After Tax)
YearPPF Balance (₹)FD Balance (Pre-Tax) (₹)FD Balance (Post-Tax) (₹)Better
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About the Ppf Vs Fd Calculator

This calculator is designed specifically for Indian investors and taxpayers using 2026 rules and regulations. All formulas follow official government guidelines and are updated annually. Results are instant and no data leaves your browser.

How the Calculation Works

The Ppf Vs Fd calculator uses the exact mathematical formula prescribed for this financial product in India. Enter your inputs and the result updates instantly. All calculations account for the current rates applicable for FY 2025-26.

How to Use This Calculator Effectively

Start with your base scenario — your current numbers. Then adjust variables to see how changes affect the outcome. For investment calculators, try different return rates to understand the range of possible outcomes. For tax calculators, compare old vs new regime to find your optimal strategy. For loan calculators, adjust tenure and down payment to find the affordable EMI range for your income.

Why Accurate Calculation Matters

Most financial mistakes in India stem from not calculating the true cost or benefit of a decision. An EMI that seems affordable often becomes a trap when combined with other obligations. A tax saving that sounds large may be smaller after accounting for lock-in. A return that appears impressive may be eroded by inflation. Using accurate calculators before committing to financial decisions is the single highest-return habit of financially successful Indians. This calculator is built for Indian investors and taxpayers using the latest rules from the Income Tax Act, SEBI regulations, EPFO guidelines, and RBI circulars applicable for FY 2025-26. All results update instantly in your browser with no data transmitted to our servers. Use the inputs to model your specific scenario, then compare against the current year limits and rates shown on the Income Tax Department portal at incometax.gov.in. This calculator follows the exact mathematical formulas prescribed by the Income Tax Act, SEBI regulations, EPFO guidelines, RBI circulars, and AMFI rules for FY 2025-26. Results update instantly in your browser. No data is stored or transmitted. Use these results as a planning baseline and consult a SEBI-registered investment adviser or Chartered Accountant for decisions involving significant amounts. The most accurate and current tax rates are available on the Income Tax Department portal at incometax.gov.in and the GST portal at gst.gov.in. Understanding the precise mechanics of this calculation enables better financial decisions. Every input variable has a different sensitivity — some inputs change the result dramatically while others have minimal impact. For investment calculators, the return rate assumption is the most sensitive variable. For tax calculators, your filing status and deductions matter most. For loan calculators, the interest rate and tenure interact to determine total cost. Running multiple scenarios with conservative, realistic, and optimistic assumptions gives a range of outcomes rather than a single number, which is the foundation of sound financial planning.

PPF vs FD — Frequently Asked Questions

Is PPF better than FD after tax?+
For investors in the 20% or 30% tax slab: yes, PPF at 7.1% tax-free gives more than FD at 7.5% after tax. At 30% slab, FD interest is effectively taxed at 30%, giving a post-tax yield of 5.25% — compared to PPF's full 7.1%. For taxpayers in the 0% bracket (income below ₹3 lakhs), FD at 7.5% beats PPF.
What is the lock-in period for PPF vs FD?+
PPF has a 15-year lock-in with partial withdrawals allowed from year 7. Tax-saving FD has a 5-year lock-in with no premature withdrawal. Regular FDs offer flexible tenures from 7 days to 10 years with premature withdrawal (with penalty). PPF's EEE status justifies the longer lock-in for most long-term investors.
Can I have both PPF and FD investments?+
Yes — and this is the optimal strategy. Max out PPF at ₹1.5 lakh/year for 80C benefit and tax-free returns. Use FD for shorter-term goals (1–5 years) where liquidity matters more. For amounts above ₹1.5 lakh with a 5+ year horizon, debt mutual funds often beat FDs post-tax. PPF and FD serve different needs and work well together.
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