RD vs PPF — short-term flexibility or long-term guarantee?
RD suits shorter savings goals with full flexibility at maturity. PPF locks in for 15 years but is tax-free and typically higher-yielding. Compare both on the same monthly/annual contribution.
RD Calculator vs PPF Calculator — 15-year comparison
Opens Compare Lab pre-loaded with both, in your own currency — adjust any input and the chart updates instantly.
Compare now →A fixed amount deposited with a bank every month for a fixed tenure, at a fixed interest rate.
Best for: Building a savings habit for a short-to-medium-term goal when you don't have a lump sum to deposit upfront.
A government-backed, long-term savings scheme with a 15-year lock-in, a capped annual contribution, and fully tax-free interest and maturity.
Best for: The guaranteed, tax-free core of a long-term goal like retirement, where you can commit to the lock-in.
Can I withdraw from PPF before 15 years?
Partial withdrawal is allowed from the 7th year onward under specific rules, but PPF is fundamentally built as a long-term lock-in — it's not a substitute for an RD's short-term flexibility.
Where do these numbers actually come from?
The same calculation engine that powers our standalone calculators and Compare Lab — nothing here is a separate or simplified estimate. Every assumption (rate, tenure, tax) is visible and adjustable once you open the comparison with your own numbers.