Introduction
The government launched the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative to support the welfare of the girl child. This scheme provides financial security and long-term benefits. SBI Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana allows parents or legal guardians to open an SSY account in the State Bank of India (SBI), offering competitive interest rates and tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Features of SBI Sukanya Samriddhi Account
- Higher Interest Rates: The SSY interest rate is revised quarterly and is higher than regular savings accounts and fixed deposits.
- Tax Benefits: Deposits made under this scheme qualify for deductions up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C.
- Long-Term Savings: The account matures after 21 years or upon the girl’s marriage after 18 years.
- Minimum and Maximum Deposit: A minimum deposit of Rs. 250 is required annually, with a maximum limit of Rs. 1.5 lakh per financial year.
- Partial Withdrawals: Allowed up to 50% of the balance after the girl turns 18 years old for educational expenses.
- Guaranteed Returns: Since it’s a government-backed scheme, it offers risk-free and guaranteed returns.
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How to Open a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Online Account in SBI?
Stepwise Process to Open an SSY Account
- Visit the SBI Branch: The SSY account opening process is not entirely online. You must visit the nearest SBI branch.
- Collect the SSY Application Form: Obtain the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana account opening form from the bank.
- Fill in the Details: Provide details such as the parent/guardian’s name, the girl’s name, date of birth, address, and nominee details.
- Attach the Required Documents: Submit identity proof, address proof, and the girl’s birth certificate.
- Deposit the Initial Amount: A minimum deposit of Rs. 250 is required.
- Get the Passbook: Upon successful verification, the bank issues a passbook for the SSY account.
Documents Required to Open a Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana SBI
To open an SSY account, the following documents are needed:
- Birth certificate of the girl child
- KYC documents of the parent/guardian (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID)
- Address proof (utility bills, passport, etc.)
- Photographs of the applicant and guardian
- Duly filled SSY application form
Benefits of Sukanya Samriddhi Account with SBI
- Encourages Savings: A disciplined way to save for the girl’s future.
- Tax-Free Returns: Interest earned is exempt from income tax.
- Flexible Deposits: Deposit any amount between Rs. 250 to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually.
- Financial Security: Provides a secure financial future for the girl child.
- Premature Withdrawal Option: Allowed for higher education expenses or marriage after 18 years.
You may also want to know the IOB Senior Citizen Savings Scheme
SSY Calculator: Estimating Returns
An SSY calculator helps in estimating the maturity amount based on:
- Annual contribution
- Interest rates
- Duration of investment. Using an SSY calculator, depositors can plan their savings accordingly.
Conclusion
The SBI Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana account helps secure the financial future of a girl child through an excellent savings scheme. With high-interest rates, tax benefits under Section 80C, and long-term savings, it remains a preferred choice among parents. Opening an SSY account with SBI ensures safety, security, and guaranteed returns.