Why PPF deposit timing matters to a projection
Two PPF projections can show different results even with the same annual contribution and displayed rate. The assumed deposit date and the account’s opening financial year can explain much of the difference.
By INDwise · Published 29 October 2026 · Editorial policy
Illustration: ₹1.5 lakh before 5 April each year, constant 7.1% assumption
Projected PPF balance: ₹40,68,209
| Annual contribution | ₹1,50,000 |
|---|---|
| Annual interest rate | 7.1 % |
| Time period | 15 years |
| Total contribution | ₹22,50,000 |
| Estimated interest | ₹18,18,209 |
Understand the full-year contribution assumption
INDwise’s annual model assumes the contribution is made before 5 April and is eligible for a full year of interest. Scheme interest eligibility uses the relevant monthly balance rules. A deposit made later in the financial year does not receive the same interest as one eligible for all 12 months.
Keep rate changes separate from deposit timing
The rate input is held constant for an illustration. The government notifies small-savings rates by quarter, so the entered rate is not a guarantee for the whole term. The sources linked from the calculator identify the reference period used for the default.
Use actual opening dates for maturity planning
The calculator shows a number of full projection years. A PPF account’s maturity is tied to the scheme’s opening-financial-year rules, not simply the day you run a 15-year projection. Partial withdrawals and eligible extensions have their own conditions. Check the account record before treating a modelled balance as available cash.
Questions about this example.
Does entering 10 years make the money fully withdrawable?
No. An intermediate balance projection does not change scheme withdrawal or maturity conditions.
Is the example rate a live feed?
No. It is an editable reference assumption. Check the linked current notification when planning an actual deposit.
Assumptions and references
Full-year projection, not an exact maturity-date quote. A PPF account matures 15 years after the end of its opening financial year, with eligible 5-year extensions. The model holds the entered rate constant and excludes withdrawals.
Examples are computed from the same calculator functions as the interactive tools. Software checks do not constitute a personalised tax or investment review.