Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: rate, rules and maturity at 21

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is a small-savings account for a girl child, opened at a post office or an authorised bank. The rate for October to December 2026 is 8.2% a year. You deposit for 15 years from opening, and the account matures 21 years from opening.

How SSY interest works

Interest is calculated monthly on the lowest balance between the 5th and the end of the month, and credited at the end of each financial year. Deposits stop after 15 years, but the balance keeps earning interest until year 21. The Sukanya Samriddhi calculator assumes each year’s deposit is made by 5 April.

Worked example: opened when she is 2

In the first case, interest is about ₹49,32,119, more than twice the deposits. At 18 she could withdraw up to about ₹24,21,510 (50% of the balance) for education.

Rules in short

• Opening: by a parent or guardian, for a girl below 10.
• Deposits: minimum ₹250 a year, maximum ₹1,50,000 a year, in multiples of ₹50, for 15 years.
• Maturity: 21 years from the date of opening.
• Education withdrawal: up to 50% of the balance at the end of the previous financial year, once she turns 18 or passes Class 10, with proof of admission.
• Closure for marriage: allowed when she is at least 18, from one month before to three months after the marriage.
• Operation: the guardian operates the account until she turns 18.

The rate can change

The government reviews the rate every quarter. The calculator applies one rate to all 21 years, so the real maturity will differ if the rate moves. Tax treatment is set by the income-tax law; check the current position for your tax year.

How to use the calculator

1. Enter the yearly deposit (₹250 to ₹1.5 lakh).
2. Keep 8.2% or try another rate.
3. Enter her age at opening, then read the maturity value and the balance at 18.

Compare with PPF (7.1%, open to anyone) and other post office schemes. To plan a target amount for her education, use the savings goal calculator.