Savings Bank Account

Savings Bank Accounts are meant to promote the habit of saving among the citizens
while allowing them to use their funds when required. The main advantage of Savings
Bank Account is its high liquidity and safety. On top of that Savings Bank Account earn
moderate interest too. The rate of interest is decided and periodically reviewed by the
Government of India. Presently, the rate of interest is 3.5% compounded half yearly.

Savings Bank Account can be opened in the name of an individual or in joint names of
the depositors. Savings Bank Accounts can also be opened and operated by the minors
provided they have completed ten years of age. Accounts by Hindu Undivided Families
(HUF) not engaged in any trading or business activity, can be opened in the name of the
Karta of the HUF.

The minimum balance to be maintained in an ordinary savings bank account varies from
bank to bank. It is less in case of public sector banks and comparatively higher in case of
private banks. In most of the public sector banks, minimum balance to be maintained is
Rs. 100. In accounts where cheque books are issued, a minimum balance of Rs. 500/- has
to be maintained. For Pension Savings Accounts, minimum balance to be maintained is
Rs. 5/- without cheque facility and Rs. 250/- with cheque facility.

Things to Consider While Opening a Savings Account

It is advisable to seek the following information from bank before opening the account:

• Minimum balance requirements.

• Penal provisions in case the balance falls below the minimum stipulated amount
• Penalty in case of return of cheques issued or instruments sent on collection.
• Collection facilities etc. offered and charges applicable.
• Details of charges, if any for issue of cheque books and limits fixed on number of
withdrawals, cash drawings, etc.

Document Required For Opening a Savings Account

• Two passport size photographs

• Proof of residence i.e. Passport/driving license/Gas / Telephone / Electricity Bill/
Ration card/voters identity card
• An introduction of the person from an existing account holder.
• PAN number / Declaration in form no.60 or 61 as per the Income Tax Act 1961.