PPF Calculator

The PPF interest rate for 2026 is 7.1% per annum, compounded annually and credited at the end of each financial year (March 31). The rate is set by the Ministry of Finance and reviewed quarterly.

PPF has Exempt-Exempt-Exempt (EEE) tax status — meaning the investment is exempt (80C deduction up to ₹1.5L), the interest earned is exempt, and the maturity amount is fully exempt from tax. This makes PPF one of the best tax-saving instruments in India.

You must invest at least ₹500 per year to keep the account active. The maximum annual deposit is ₹1,50,000 — across all PPF accounts in your name. Deposits above ₹1.5L don't earn interest and aren't eligible for 80C.

Yes. After the initial 15-year tenure, you can extend in blocks of 5 years — either with or without fresh contributions. With contributions, you continue to earn full interest and 80C benefits. Without contributions, the balance continues to earn 7.1% tax-free.

PPF interest is calculated on the minimum balance between the 5th and last day of each month. So deposit before the 5th of each month — especially April — to get interest for that month. Depositing on April 1-4 earns interest for April.

No. NRIs cannot open new PPF accounts. However, if you had a PPF account before becoming an NRI, you can continue contributing until maturity (15 years). After maturity, NRI accounts cannot be extended.