What This Calculator Estimates
The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a long-term voluntary savings scheme backed by the Government of India, offering tax-free interest and a statutory lock-in period (typically 15 years, extendable in blocks), making it a popular option for retirement and tax-saving planning. The interest rate is set quarterly by the government rather than fixed for the life of the account, so this calculator uses an editable rate so you can model returns using the current or a projected rate rather than an outdated fixed assumption.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your annual contribution.
- Enter the annual rate you want to use.
- Enter the number of years.
- Click Estimate PPF Value.
- Review the estimated maturity amount.
Current PPF Rate & Example
The PPF rate for the current quarter (Q2 FY 2026-27, July-September 2026) is 7.1% per annum, compounded annually — unchanged since April 2020, one of the longest stable stretches in the scheme's history. The annual contribution ceiling is ₹1.5 lakh; deposits made before the 5th of each month earn interest for that month since interest is calculated on the lowest balance between the 5th and month-end. Worked example: depositing the maximum ₹1,50,000 every year for the full 15-year term at 7.1% grows to approximately ₹40,47,214 at maturity — entirely tax-free under PPF's EEE status.
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Tips for a More Accurate Estimate
- Use the current quarterly-announced PPF rate for the most accurate near-term estimate.
- Remember the standard lock-in is 15 years, extendable in 5-year blocks.
- Check the current annual contribution ceiling before planning your deposits.
- Consider PPF's tax-exempt status when comparing it to other tax-saving instruments.
- Confirm current loan-against-PPF rules with your account provider if you may need liquidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PPF interest rate fixed for the entire tenure?
No, the Government of India reviews and announces the PPF interest rate quarterly, so it can change over the life of your account — use the current rate for the most accurate near-term estimate.
What is the lock-in period for PPF?
PPF has a statutory lock-in period of 15 years, though it can be extended in blocks of 5 years after maturity, with certain partial withdrawal provisions available after the fifth year.
Is PPF interest taxable?
PPF enjoys tax-exempt status on both interest earned and maturity proceeds under current Indian tax rules, making it a popular tax-saving instrument — confirm current tax treatment with official guidance.
Is there a maximum annual contribution limit for PPF?
Yes, the government sets an annual contribution ceiling per PPF account — check the current limit published by the Ministry of Finance or your bank/post office PPF provider.
Can I take a loan against my PPF balance?
Yes, loans against PPF balance are permitted during a specific window of years within the tenure, subject to conditions — check current rules with your PPF account provider.
Last updated: May 11, 2026