Last updated: 2026-10-21
How Sukanya Samriddhi works
- Open it for a girl below 10 years old, at a post office or bank. One account per girl, up to two girls per family.
- Deposit between ₹250 and ₹1,50,000 every year for 15 years. The account matures after 21 years from opening.
- Interest is set by the government every quarter (8.2% now) and compounded yearly.
- EEE tax status: deposits count for 80C (old regime), and both interest and maturity are tax-free.
- Up to 50% can be withdrawn after she turns 18, for higher education or marriage.
Example: ₹1.5 lakh a year at 8.2% grows to about ₹71.8 lakh. You deposit ₹22.5 lakh and earn about ₹49.3 lakh in tax-free interest.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sukanya Samriddhi interest rate now?
8.2% a year for October–December 2026. The government reviews small savings rates every quarter.
When can I withdraw money?
Up to 50% of the balance after the girl turns 18 or passes class 10, for education. The full amount at maturity (21 years) or for her marriage after 18.
What if I miss a yearly deposit?
The account becomes inactive. You can revive it by paying ₹250 for each missed year plus a ₹50 penalty per year.
SSY or PPF for my daughter?
SSY pays more (8.2% vs 7.1%) and both are tax-free, but SSY money is meant for your daughter and is locked longer. Many parents use both.