Senior Citizen Saving Scheme 2004 is an effort
made by the Government of India for the empowerment and financial
security of the Senior Citizens of the country.
Senior Citizen Saving Scheme 2004
The Senior Citizen Saving Scheme 2004 had been
introduced by the Government of India for the benefit of senior citizens
who have crossed the age of 60 years. However, under some circumstances
the people above 55 years of age are also eligible to enjoy the benefits
of this scheme. These prerequisites include voluntary retirement of the
beneficiary before making the investment, a maximum time limit of three
months to make the investment after the retirement and a certificate
from the employer stating the details about the employment and
retirement of the beneficiary. The scheme is not allowed for Non
Resident Indians (NRIs) and Hindu Undivided Families.
Investment
The investment under the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme can be made in
any Post Office, although the beneficiary has to open an account for
making the investment. Also, one account can hold only one deposit from
a beneficiary, which indicates multiple accounts are mandatory to be
opened for making multiple deposits under the scheme. The deposits can
be made only in the multiples of Rs. 1,000 and the maximum limit for a
deposit has been restricted to Rs. 15,00,000. One important condition is
that if a person opens multiple accounts for making more than one
deposits, the total amount of all the deposits should not cross the
maximum limit of Rs. 15,00,000. Also, a beneficiary can't open two or
more accounts in a single Post Office during the same month.
Interest and Nomination
The Senior Citizen Saving Scheme 2004 offers an interest rate of 9
percent per annum, which will be payable on a quarterly basis on the
31st of March, 30th of June, 30th of September and 31st of December of
every year. The interest earned upon the savings is fully taxable, and
the tax is deducted at the source itself. The scheme offers nomination
facility so that in case of death of the beneficiary, the funds might be
paid to the nominee of the beneficiary.
Maturity and Withdrawals
The tenure of Senior Citizen Saving Scheme 2004 is 5 years, which can be
further extended for a period of 3 years by making an application to
that effect. After a period of 1 year, the beneficiary can withdraw his
or her amount with some conditions, but a penalty between 1% and 1.5% of
the deposit is deducted before the withdrawal is made.
