444-Day FD From PSU Banks Is Trending in 2026, and Here Is Which One Pays the Most!

Key Takeaways 

• Several PSU banks are offering special 444-day FD schemes with rates up to 6.70% for general citizens, 7.20% for senior citizens, and 7.45% for super senior citizens. Indian Bank and Indian Overseas Bank are currently offering the best returns among PSU banks.
• Earlier, SBI’s Amrit Vrishti scheme offered 6.45% for general citizens and 6.95% for senior citizens, revised on December 15, 2025.

Is a 444-Day FD From a PSU Bank Worth Your Money Right Now?

Special fixed deposit (FD) schemes with unique tenures are not just marketing tricks anymore. Public sector banks are using them to attract more deposits. One popular option right now is the 444-day FD. But these schemes are available only for a limited time. Once the offer ends, the interest rate is no longer available.

Most PSU banks like Punjab National Bank, Union Bank of India, Bank of India, Indian Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank offer around 6.60% interest, while State Bank of India offers about 6.45%. So, the interest rate difference between these banks is very small. But even a small difference matters. The choice of the wrong bank can mean missing out on some guaranteed returns.

Here Is How Every Indian Saver Stands to Gain From These Schemes

These 444-day FDs are open to all resident Indians, including senior and super senior citizens. The minimum deposit is just ₹1,000. That makes them accessible to almost everyone.

Indian Bank’s IND SECURE scheme offers 6.60% for general citizens, 7.10% for senior citizens, and 7.35% for super senior citizens, effective March 3, 2026. 
 

Senior citizens receive an additional 0.50% p.a., and super senior citizens receive 0.75% above the standard rate. This is a meaningful boost for retirees looking for a fixed monthly income.

What Experts Say: Lock In Now Before Rates Fall Further!

Analysts at Business Today say small finance banks offer about 1% to 1.5% higher FD interest than large PSU banks. PSU banks are safer, but they give slightly lower returns. So, there is a clear trade-off between safety and higher earnings.

If you want higher returns, small finance banks and NBFCs can be good options. But they come with more risk. NBFCs, in particular, should be checked carefully for credit ratings and liquidity. PSU banks are still a safe and reliable choice for risk-averse investors, especially retirees. 

Experts also suggest investing now, as the Reserve Bank of India may cut rates in the coming months, which can reduce FD interest rates.

Always check the latest FD rates on the bank’s official website before investing, because these special schemes can be removed anytime.

Conclusion 

Indian Bank and Indian Overseas Bank are currently offering the highest returns among PSU banks for 444-day FDs. SBI’s Amrit Vrishti scheme gives slightly lower interest, but it is still a safe and reliable option.

Senior and super senior citizens can get the benefit of higher interest rates. These offers are for a limited time. Also, always check the latest rates on the bank’s official website before investing.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Why do banks offer higher interest for 444-day FDs?
Banks offer higher rates on 444-day FDs to attract deposits for a specific period. It helps them manage liquidity better. These are limited-time schemes, so they give slightly higher returns to encourage people to invest quickly.

2. Which PSU bank is best for a 444-day FD right now?
Indian Bank and Indian Overseas Bank offer some of the highest rates among PSU banks. State Bank of India offers slightly lower rates but is considered very safe. Choose based on your need for returns vs safety.