PNB FD Scheme : When it comes to safe investment options, Fixed Deposits (FDs) continue to be one of the most preferred choices among Indian investors. They provide guaranteed returns, capital safety, and flexibility in terms of tenure. To attract more depositors, banks often launch special FD schemes with higher interest rates for specific periods. One such scheme is the PNB 400 Days FD Scheme, introduced by Punjab National Bank (PNB).
This article will provide you with detailed insights about the PNB 400 Days FD Scheme, including its interest rates, benefits, eligibility, documents required, and why it can be a good option for short-term investors.
What is the PNB 400 Days FD Scheme?
The PNB 400 Days FD Scheme is a special fixed deposit plan offered by Punjab National Bank. Unlike regular FD schemes where customers can choose tenures ranging from 7 days to 10 years, this is a limited-period scheme with a fixed tenure of 400 days.
The main highlight of this FD scheme is that it offers higher interest rates compared to regular fixed deposit plans. It is designed to attract individuals who are looking for better returns within a short-term horizon of just over a year.
Interest Rates under PNB 400 Days FD Scheme
As of 2025, Punjab National Bank has introduced competitive interest rates on its 400-day FD scheme. While interest rates may be revised periodically by the bank, the scheme generally offers better returns than standard FDs of similar duration.
-
General Public: Around 7.10% – 7.25% per annum
-
Senior Citizens: Around 7.60% – 7.75% per annum
(Note: The rates mentioned are indicative and subject to change as per PNB’s official announcements.)
The additional benefit for senior citizens makes this scheme especially attractive for retirees who are looking for a safe investment with higher assured returns.
Key Features of PNB 400 Days FD Scheme
- Fixed Tenure: Only for 400 days, not flexible like regular FDs.
- Attractive Interest Rates: Higher than standard PNB FD schemes.
-
Minimum Deposit: Usually starts from ₹1,000, with no maximum limit (subject to overall deposit guidelines).
- Premature Withdrawal: Allowed, but with penalty charges as per bank rules.
- Loan Facility: Investors can avail loans against their FD deposit.
- Mode of Investment: Can be opened through PNB branches as well as PNB online banking and mobile banking platforms.
-
Eligibility: Available for individuals, senior citizens, NRIs, HUFs, and firms.
Eligibility Criteria
Anyone who meets the bank’s standard KYC requirements can invest in this scheme. Eligible categories include:
- Resident Individuals
- Senior Citizens
- Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs)
- Partnership Firms & Companies
-
NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) through NRE/NRO accounts
Documents Required
To open a PNB 400 Days FD, customers must submit:
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License)
- Address Proof (Aadhaar Card, Utility Bill, Passport, etc.)
- Recent Photograph
- PAN Card (mandatory for deposits above ₹50,000)
-
Bank Account Details
Existing PNB account holders may require minimal documentation since their KYC is already completed.
Benefits of Investing in PNB 400 Days FD Scheme
-
Higher Returns: The scheme provides better interest compared to regular FD tenures of similar duration.
-
Safe & Secure: Being a government-backed bank, PNB ensures safety of deposits up to ₹5 lakh covered under DICGC insurance.
-
Short-Term Lock-in: With just over a year’s lock-in, it is suitable for those who don’t want to invest for the long term.
-
Senior Citizen Advantage: Senior citizens get an extra interest rate, making it a reliable option for retirement income.
-
Loan Facility: Easy loan or overdraft facility against FD for emergency needs.
-
Flexible Interest Payouts: Option to receive interest monthly, quarterly, or at maturity.
How to Apply for PNB 400 Days FD Scheme?
Customers can open this FD through both offline and online modes:
Offline Method (Branch Visit):
-
Visit your nearest Punjab National Bank branch.
-
Collect the FD application form and fill in the required details.
-
Submit documents (KYC proofs, passport-size photo).
-
Deposit the amount in cash or cheque.
-
The bank will issue an FD receipt mentioning 400 days tenure.
Online Method (Internet Banking / Mobile App):
-
Log in to PNB Internet Banking or PNB ONE mobile app.
-
Go to the Fixed Deposit section.
-
Select “PNB 400 Days Special FD Scheme.”
-
Enter deposit amount and tenure (400 days).
-
Confirm and complete the process digitally.
-
The FD certificate will be available online.
Premature Withdrawal & Penalty
Though the scheme allows premature withdrawal, it comes with a penalty. Generally, PNB deducts 1% from the applicable interest rate for the period the FD was held before withdrawal.
Example: If the FD offered 7.10% interest and you withdrew before maturity, you may only receive 6.10% depending on tenure completed.
Therefore, investors are advised to invest funds that they can keep locked for 400 days without interruption.
Comparison with Regular PNB FDs
| Feature | PNB Regular FD | PNB 400 Days FD Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Tenure | 7 days to 10 years | Fixed at 400 days |
| Interest Rate | 6.50% – 7.00% | 7.10% – 7.75% |
| Flexibility | High | Limited |
| Senior Citizen Benefit | +0.50% | Higher than regular |
| Premature Withdrawal | Allowed | Allowed with penalty |
Clearly, the 400 Days FD Scheme offers higher interest compared to standard FDs, making it more rewarding for short-term investors.
Who Should Invest in PNB 400 Days FD Scheme?
This scheme is ideal for:
-
Conservative Investors looking for assured returns.
-
Senior Citizens seeking higher interest rates.
-
Short-Term Investors who want to park surplus funds safely for just over a year.
-
Risk-Averse Individuals who prefer guaranteed income over market-linked instruments like mutual funds or stocks.
However, it may not be suitable for those who need high liquidity or want flexibility in tenure selection.
Final Thoughts
The PNB 400 Days FD Scheme is an excellent opportunity for investors looking for short-term, high-return, and safe investment options. With attractive interest rates, special benefits for senior citizens, and the security of a government-backed bank, it strikes a balance between safety and returns.
For individuals who want to grow their money without taking risks in volatile markets, this FD plan can be a smart choice. However, one should always compare the rates with other banks and consider liquidity needs before locking funds for 400 days.
If you are planning to invest in an FD that provides better returns than regular deposits with moderate tenure, the PNB 400 Days FD Scheme could be the right fit for you.