Definition and Nature
- A digital fixed deposit is a fixed deposit account that can be opened and managed entirely online.
- It eliminates the need to visit a bank branch for deposit initiation or servicing.
- Offered by most public, private, and digital-only banks through mobile apps and internet banking.
- Designed for convenience, speed, and paperless processing.
- Suitable for tech-savvy users and investors seeking quick, secure investment options.
Account Opening Process
- Customers log in to their bank’s digital platform using a registered account.
- Choose the fixed deposit option, enter the amount, tenure, and interest payout preference.
- The deposit is created instantly by debiting the linked savings account.
- No physical documentation is required for existing KYC-compliant customers.
- A digital receipt or confirmation is sent via SMS and email.
Features and Flexibility
- Minimum deposit amounts are usually low, starting from ₹1,000.
- Tenure ranges from a few days to several years, as per standard FD policies.
- Interest is credited at maturity or at chosen intervals for non-cumulative options.
- Auto-renewal, premature withdrawal, and reinvestment options are available digitally.
- Some platforms offer partial withdrawals or overdrafts linked to digital FDs.
Benefits of Digital FDs
- Instant creation with 24/7 availability via app or website.
- Transparent display of interest rates and maturity values before booking.
- Safe and encrypted processing ensures secure transactions.
- Convenient tracking, renewal, and closure through mobile banking.
- Paperless investment with minimal operational hassle.
Eligibility and Access
- Available to existing bank account holders with verified KYC details.
- Some banks allow new users to open digital FDs with e-KYC and Aadhaar verification.
- Accessible through net banking, mobile banking, and fintech partner platforms.
- NRIs, senior citizens, and minors may also open digital FDs depending on bank policy.
- Digital FDs support both single and joint holdings based on digital consent.
