For investors seeking predictable returns over a little more than a year, special-tenure fixed deposits (FDs) from public sector banks (PSUs) present a compelling option. Specifically, 444-day FDs are attracting attention with interest rates ranging from 6.45% to 6.75% for general citizens in 2026. These rates can significantly impact the maturity value of your savings.
Understanding Your Potential Earnings
The maturity amount on a 444-day FD will vary based on the bank's offered interest rate and the initial investment. Calculations are typically based on quarterly compounding. Here’s a breakdown of how different investment amounts—₹20,000, ₹50,000, and ₹1 lakh—could grow across top PSU banks.
Central Bank of India Leads with 6.75%
As of 2026, the Central Bank of India offers the highest interest rate among the surveyed PSU banks for its 444-day deposit, standing at 6.75%. This rate translates to substantial returns for investors:
- A ₹20,000 investment could yield approximately ₹1,697 in interest, maturing at about ₹21,697.
- A ₹50,000 deposit could earn around ₹4,242 in interest, reaching a maturity value of approximately ₹54,242.
- An investment of ₹1 lakh could generate about ₹8,483 in interest, resulting in a maturity amount of roughly ₹1,08,483.
PNB and Indian Overseas Bank Offer 6.60%
Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) are offering a competitive 6.60% on their 444-day FDs for general citizens. PNB's rate is effective from June 1, 2026, while IOB's became effective on May 15, 2026. At this rate:
- ₹20,000 could earn approximately ₹1,658, maturing at around ₹21,658.
- ₹50,000 could grow to approximately ₹54,144, with about ₹4,144 in interest.
- ₹1 lakh could mature at roughly ₹1,08,289, earning about ₹8,289 in interest.
Canara Bank's 6.50% Rate
Canara Bank provides a 6.50% interest rate on its 444-day FD, effective from March 17, 2026. For investors considering Canara Bank:
- A ₹20,000 investment could yield around ₹1,632 in interest, resulting in a maturity value of approximately ₹21,632.
- ₹50,000 could mature at about ₹54,080, earning ₹4,080 in interest.
- ₹1 lakh could grow to roughly ₹1,08,159, with approximately ₹8,159 in interest.
SBI and Bank of Baroda at 6.45%
State Bank of India (SBI) and Bank of Baroda (BoB) offer 6.45% on their special 444-day deposits. SBI's offering is under its Amrit Vrishti scheme, while BoB provides it through its BoB Square Drive Deposit Scheme. At this rate:
- A ₹20,000 deposit could earn approximately ₹1,619, maturing at around ₹21,619.
- ₹50,000 could mature at approximately ₹54,047, earning about ₹4,047 in interest.
- ₹1 lakh could grow to roughly ₹1,08,094, with approximately ₹8,094 in interest.
Summary of 444-Day FD Interest and Maturity Amounts (Approximate)
Bank / Rate Investment Approx. Interest Earned Approx. Maturity Amount Central Bank of India – 6.75% ₹20,000 ₹1,697 ₹21,697 ₹50,000 ₹4,242 ₹54,242 ₹1,00,000 ₹8,483 ₹1,08,483 PNB / IOB – 6.60% ₹20,000 ₹1,658 ₹21,658 ₹50,000 ₹4,144 ₹54,144 ₹1,00,000 ₹8,289 ₹1,08,289 Canara Bank – 6.50% ₹20,000 ₹1,632 ₹21,632 ₹50,000 ₹4,080 ₹54,080 ₹1,00,000 ₹8,159 ₹1,08,159 SBI / BoB – 6.45% ₹20,000 ₹1,619 ₹21,619 ₹50,000 ₹4,047 ₹54,047 ₹1,00,000 ₹8,094 ₹1,08,094It is important to note that these calculations are approximate and based on quarterly compounding over 444 days. Actual maturity amounts may vary slightly depending on the bank's specific calculation methodology and compounding conventions. The rates cited are for general citizens; senior citizens may be eligible for different, often higher, interest rates.