Major Changes in TDS on FD Interest from 1st April 2025: Everything You Need to Know!

If you're someone who invests in Fixed Deposits (FDs)—whether a senior citizen, a middle-class saver, or a retired investor—there’s big news for you starting FY 2025-26!

The Indian government has revised the TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) exemption limits on interest earned from FDs, especially from co-operative banks and societies. This move will directly impact your income from FDs—with potential for zero TDS deduction on higher interest earnings.

As per the Income Tax Act:

  • Section 194A of the Income Tax Act, 1961 governs the rules related to TDS on interest income.
  • Subsection 194A(3)(i) provides exemptions for certain interest payments made by co-operative societies and banks.
  • As announced in the Union Budget 2024, these exemption limits have been significantly increased effective 1st April 2025 (FY 2025-26).

Let’s break it all down in simple terms.

What is TDS on FD Interest and Why It Matters?

Banks deduct TDS (Tax at source) on interest income above a certain limit—even if your total income is below taxable levels. This can reduce your earnings and cause unnecessary hassles while filing returns or claiming refunds.

But from FY 2025-26, things are getting better.

Updated TDS Exemption Limits on FD Interest (Effective FY 2025-26)

Interest Paid By Senior Citizens (₹) Other Citizens (₹)
Co-operative engaged in business 1,00,000 50,000
Co-operative engaged in banking business 1,00,000 50,000
Primary Agricultural Credit Society 1,00,000 50,000
Co-operative Land Mortgage Bank 1,00,000 50,000
Co-operative Land Development Bank 1,00,000 50,000

Compared to FY 2024-25:

Interest Paid By Senior Citizens (₹) Other Citizens (₹)
(All above institutions) 50,000 40,000

Result:

  • Senior Citizens now get double the exemption limit (₹1 lakh).
  • Other Citizens enjoy a ₹10,000 hike in the exemption threshold.

Who Benefits the Most?

  • Senior Citizens investing in co-operative banks or societies
  • Small Investors with moderate FD amounts
  • Taxpayers under the basic exemption limit (₹2.5 lakh for individuals, ₹3 lakh for senior citizens)
  • Non-taxable income earners who still face TDS cuts due to lack of declarations

How to Avoid TDS Deduction on FD Interest in 2025

Even with new limits, if banks don’t have proper declarations, they might still deduct TDS. Here’s how to ensure that doesn’t happen:

  • Submit Form 15G / Form 15H
    • Form 15G: For individuals below 60 years whose total income is below taxable limit.
    • Form 15H: For senior citizens (60+ years) with non-taxable income.

    When to submit: At the beginning of the financial year or when opening an FD.

    Pro tip: Submit it for each FD in different banks.

  • Link Your PAN Card with All FD Accounts

    If your PAN is not linked, the bank will deduct TDS at 20% (instead of 10%). Avoid higher deduction by ensuring your PAN is updated in every bank account.

  • Spread Your FDs Across Banks

    Banks deduct TDS based on the interest earned within a single financial institution. By distributing FDs across multiple banks, you can keep interest below exemption limits in each.

    Example

    Let’s say you’re a 40-year-old investor with ₹8 lakh to invest in FDs and expect to earn 6.5% annually.

    • ₹4 lakh FD in Co-operative Bank A → Approx ₹26,000 interest
    • ₹4 lakh FD in Co-operative Bank B → Approx ₹26,000 interest

    Since each is below ₹50,000 (the new TDS threshold), no TDS will be deducted.

  • Choose Tax-Free FD Options:

    Some banks offer Tax Saver FDs under Section 80C (with a 5-year lock-in). While these are not TDS-free, they offer tax deductions on investment.

Our Expert Services Can Help You

Handling tax forms and bank communication can be time-consuming. We provide:

  • Assistance in filing Form 15G / 15H
  • TDS refund help
  • Income Tax Filing & planning
  • Advice on Tax Saving Instruments

With 10+ years of experience, Trakintax simplify tax for everyone—from salaried professionals to senior citizens.

Conclusion: Save More with Smart Tax Planning!

These new TDS exemption limits from 1st April 2025 are a welcome move for depositors, especially those investing in co-operative banks. But to fully benefit, it’s important to act smart—submit declarations, spread FDs, and stay updated.

Don’t leave your GST registration to chance.

Need help in Income tax return filling or TDS planning?

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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