The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) is the Government of India's flagship savings scheme for the girl child, launched under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign. With an interest rate of 8.2% per annum — the highest among all small savings schemes — SSY offers guaranteed, tax-free returns for your daughter's future. Use our SSA Calculator to see exactly how your monthly deposits grow until your daughter turns 21.
Who Can Open an SSA Account?
A parent or legal guardian can open an SSA account for a girl child from birth up to age 10. A maximum of two SSA accounts can be opened — one per girl child (twins/triplets exceptions apply). The account can be opened at any post office or authorized bank branch with a minimum deposit of just ₹250 per year.
SSA Interest Rate 2026 & Historical Rates
The SSA interest rate for FY 2025-26 is 8.2% per annum, compounded annually. This is the highest rate among all government-backed savings schemes. Historically, SSA rates have ranged from 7.6% to 9.2%, consistently outperforming PPF and FD rates. The rate is reviewed quarterly but has remained at 8.2% since April 2023.
How SSA Maturity Value Is Calculated
Deposits are made for 15 years from the account opening date. The account matures when the girl turns 21. Interest continues to accrue for years 16-21 even without deposits. For example, depositing ₹12,500 per month (₹1.5 lakh/year) for 15 years at 8.2% yields approximately ₹69.27 lakh at maturity — ₹22.50 lakh in deposits and ₹46.77 lakh in interest, all completely tax-free.
SSA Tax Benefits: Triple Exemption (EEE)
SSA enjoys EEE status: deposits qualify for Section 80C deduction (up to ₹1.5 lakh), interest earned is tax-exempt, and the maturity amount is fully tax-free. This makes SSA the most tax-efficient instrument for girl child savings in India, offering an effective pre-tax yield of over 11.7% for investors in the 30% tax bracket.
Partial Withdrawal & Premature Closure Rules
After the girl turns 18, up to 50% of the balance can be withdrawn for higher education expenses. Premature closure is allowed after 5 years in cases of medical emergency or death. Transfer of the account between post offices and banks is free of charge anywhere in India.