Fixed Deposits (FDs) are among the most popular investment options in India, offering a safe and reliable way to grow savings. When you invest in an FD, you deposit a lump sum of money for a fixed period, earning a predetermined rate of interest. At the end of the tenure, you receive the principal amount along with the accrued interest. However, not all FDs are the same. They can be broadly categorised into two types: callable and non-callable fixed deposits. Understanding the differences between these two types of FDs is essential for making informed investment decisions.

A callable fixed deposit is a type of FD that allows the investor to withdraw the deposit before the maturity date. In other words, you have the flexibility to "call" or redeem your deposit at any time, either partially or fully, before the end of the term. This feature provides liquidity and makes callable FDs an attractive option for those who may need access to their funds in case of an emergency or unexpected financial requirement.
 

Features and benefits of a callable fixed deposit

• Callable FDs offer liquidity to the investor. You can easily access your saved funds to meet financial emergencies despite the applicable penalties.
• Most financial institutions have a low minimum investment requirement for callable FDs, usually starting from Rs. 1,000. This makes callable fixed deposits risk-free and easily accessible investment options for both big and small investors.
• Investing in callable FDs ensures ample flexibility in terms of the investment amount and tenure. Investment tenures vary from 7 days to 10 years. Depending on your budget and financial goals, you can flexibly choose how much you wish to invest and for how long.

What is a non-callable fixed deposit?

A non-callable fixed deposit is a term deposit account that does not offer the flexibility of premature withdrawals. A non-callable FD comes with a fixed lock-in tenure, where the funds deposited cannot be withdrawn before the set maturity date. Exceptions for premature withdrawals may be permitted in special cases like mandate by a court order, bankruptcy filing, or death of the account holder.

The initial deposit amount for a non-callable FD tends to be higher than that of a regular FD. Moreover, such fixed deposits offer higher interest rates than callable FDs, as your funds are locked in for the entire duration of the investment tenure with no option for early withdrawals.

Features and benefits of a non-callable fixed deposit

• The funds invested in a non-callable FD cannot be accessed before the end of the investment tenure. Withdrawals may be permitted in rare instances, such as bankruptcy, court order mandates, and the depositor’s demise.
• Non-callable fixed deposits generally offer higher interest rates as compared to regular callable deposits.
• Non-callable FDs lock in your investment for a predetermined tenure. Generally, this investment period varies from 1 to 2 years.
   

Interest rates and returns

When discussing the callable vs. non-callable FD debate, we need to consider interest rates and returns. As mentioned earlier, non-callable FDs offer a higher interest rate than callable fixed deposit accounts. This higher interest rate is compensation for the absence of the premature withdrawal option. Since your investment is locked in for a specific duration, banks and NBFCs can use the funds as stable funding sources, offering you better interest rates on the investment.

Alternatively, callable FDs offer you the advantage of premature withdrawals in exchange for a slightly lower interest rate. In other words, your returns are slightly lower due to the flexibility and liquidity benefits of such FDs. With callable FDs, you essentially trade off higher interest earnings for the possibility of withdrawing funds to meet emergency cash flow requirements.
 

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for callable and non-callable FDs remain the same. Both resident and non-resident Indians above the age of 18 years can open callable and non-callable FD accounts. Legal guardians can open an account on behalf of a minor child over the age of 14 years. HUFs, partnership companies, proprietary firms, clubs, societies, cooperative banks, and educational institutions can also open callable and non-callable FDs. The following supporting documents are needed when opening an FD account:

• A valid identity proof document like Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter’s ID, Passport, or Driver’s License.
• A valid address proof document like a utility bill, Aadhaar Card, or PAN Card.

Note: This is a general list. The specific eligibility criteria and document list may vary from one financial institution to the next. You should check the eligibility requirements and document list on the bank/NBFC’s website.
 

Choosing between callable and non-callable fixed deposits

The choice between a callable and non-callable fixed deposit depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and need for liquidity. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

• Liquidity needs: If you anticipate needing access to your funds before the end of the deposit term, a callable FD may be the better option. However, if you are confident that you will not need the funds, a non-callable FD can provide higher returns.
• Investment horizon: For short-term goals or uncertain financial situations, callable FDs offer the flexibility to withdraw funds when needed. For long-term goals, where the funds can remain untouched, non-callable FDs are more suitable.
• Risk tolerance: Callable FDs carry lower risk due to their liquidity, making them suitable for conservative investors. Non-callable FDs, while offering higher returns, carry the risk of not being able to access funds in emergencies.
   

Conclusion

Callable and non-callable fixed deposits cater to different types of investors with varying financial needs and risk appetites. Callable FDs offer flexibility and liquidity, making them suitable for short-term goals and emergency funds. Non-callable FDs, on the other hand, provide higher returns and are ideal for long-term savings goals where liquidity is not a concern.