Complete these tasks before March 31, 2026, or your PPF and Sukanya Samriddhi accounts will be closed.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: The March 31, 2026 deadline is crucial for PPF and Sukanya Samriddhi account holders. To keep the account active, it's mandatory to deposit a minimum of ₹500 in PPF and ₹250 in SSY. Failure to do so will result in a ₹50 penalty and the loss of tax benefits.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: If you have invested in the Public Provident Fund (PPF) or Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), this is a crucial time for you. The current financial year (2025-26) is just around the corner. If you haven't deposited the minimum amount in these accounts this year, please complete it by March 31, 2026.
Risk of Account Deactivation
According to the rules, it is mandatory to invest a certain minimum amount every year in these government schemes. If you fail to do so, your account may become inactive (closed). To reactivate a closed account, you will not only have to deposit the outstanding amount but also pay a penalty.
How much money is required to deposit?
The minimum investment limit varies for different schemes.
| Scheme Name | Minimum Annual Investment | Penalty (On Default) | Current Interest Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPF (Public Provident Fund) | ₹500 | ₹50 per year | 7.1% |
| SSY (Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana) | ₹250 | ₹50 per year | 8.2% |
Great opportunity to save tax
The biggest benefit of investing in these two schemes is the income tax exemption.
Section 80C benefit: By investing in these schemes, you can claim a tax deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Tax-free income: Simply put, you can deduct up to ₹1.5 lakh from your total annual taxable income, thereby reducing your tax liability.
Caution is wise.
Don't wait for the deadline, March 31, 2026, as technical issues or bank holidays may cause delays in the final days. Invest early to ensure your funds are safe and you continue to earn interest.
