In 2026, many Indian investors will continue to rely on fixed-income instruments to balance market volatility. A well-planned fixed deposit can protect capital, provide predictable cash flows, and support near-term goals—but only if returns are estimated correctly. This is where an FD calculator becomes essential. It helps estimate interest earnings, maturity value, and goal alignment using tenure-wise rates, ensuring decisions are driven by numbers rather than assumptions.
Fixed deposit insights for 2026
Fixed deposits remain relevant because they offer certainty in an uncertain interest rate environment. Once booked, the interest rate remains locked for the chosen tenure, with clarity on maturity value or periodic payouts. This makes FDs suitable for goals such as education expenses, home down payments, medical needs, or retirement income.
In 2026, selecting the right tenure and payout option matters as much as booking the FD itself. Even small changes in tenure or payout frequency can alter liquidity and realised returns. An FD calculator allows quick comparisons between cumulative and non-cumulative options.
Why an FD calculator matters more than rough estimates
Manual calculations often miss the effect of compounding and payout structure. Cumulative FDs compound over the tenure, while non-cumulative FDs distribute interest periodically. An FD calculator shows two key figures clearly—total interest earned and expected maturity value—across tenures such as 12–14 months, 15–23 months, and 24–60 months.
It also helps avoid planning errors. Aligning FD maturity with an actual goal date reduces the risk of premature withdrawals and loss of interest.
Understanding FD interest basics
FD interest depends on four factors: deposit amount, interest rate, tenure, and payout option.
- Cumulative FDs pay interest at maturity and benefit from compounding.
- Non-cumulative FDs pay interest as monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly payouts, offering regular income but lower compounding.
Rate charts therefore show different figures for the same tenure. “At maturity” rates are usually higher than periodic payout rates because interest is reinvested.
Bajaj Finance FD rates for 2026 planning
Below are current applicable rates that can be used for planning. Rates should always be verified at the time of booking.
Senior citizens (60 years and above)
Tenure: 12–14 months
- Cumulative: 95% p.a.
- Monthly: 74% p.a.
- Quarterly: 78% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 83% p.a.
- Yearly: 95% p.a.
Tenure: 15–23 months
- Cumulative: 10% p.a.
- Monthly: 88% p.a.
- Quarterly: 92% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 98% p.a.
- Yearly: 10% p.a.
Tenure: 24–60 months
- Cumulative: 30% p.a.
- Monthly: 07% p.a.
- Quarterly: 11% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 17% p.a.
- Yearly: 30% p.a.
Non-senior citizens (below 60 years)
Tenure: 12–14 months
- Cumulative: 60% p.a.
- Monthly: 41% p.a.
- Quarterly: 44% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 49% p.a.
- Yearly: 60% p.a.
Tenure: 15–23 months
- Cumulative: 75% p.a.
- Monthly: 55% p.a.
- Quarterly: 59% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 64% p.a.
- Yearly: 75% p.a.
Tenure: 24–60 months
- Cumulative: 95% p.a.
- Monthly: 74% p.a.
- Quarterly: 78% p.a.
- Half-yearly: 83% p.a.
- Yearly: 95% p.a.
How an FD calculator supports better planning
An FD calculator allows scenario analysis. You can change deposit amount, tenure, or payout option and instantly see how outcomes differ.
- Goal alignment: Match FD maturity to a specific expense date.
- Income vs growth: Compare cumulative maturity with periodic payouts.
- Liquidity planning: Assess trade-offs between higher rates and access to funds.
This is particularly useful when evaluating options such as Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit across multiple tenures.
Safety and taxation considerations
Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits carry the highest safety ratings of ICRA AAA (Stable) and CRISIL AAA/Stable, reflecting strong financial stability and repayment capability.
Interest earned is taxable under “Income from Other Sources.” As Bajaj Finance is an NBFC, TDS at 10% applies if total FD interest exceeds ₹10,000 in a financial year, regardless of age. If PAN is not provided, TDS is deducted at 20%. Eligible investors may submit Form 15G or Form 15H, subject to conditions.
Conclusion
For 2026, an FD calculator is a practical tool for precise fixed-income planning. It helps estimate maturity values, compare payout options, and align each FD with a real goal timeline. When evaluating options like Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit, running multiple scenarios through an FD calculator can help you balance returns, liquidity, and safety—ensuring your fixed-income strategy stays disciplined and goal-focused.
