If you are a young individual who has just begun earning, saving money may come across as challenging and even a bit inconvenient. However, it is exactly at this juncture that you must set up saving habits and create investment plans which can build up over time and help you reap rewards over the long term. A recurring deposit (RD) can be a great tool for this purpose. It can allow you to invest a fixed amount each month and earn interest on it. Let’s explore the key advantages of RDs and why it is ideal for the younger generation.
1. Builds the Habit of Saving
One of the biggest advantages of an RD account is that it encourages disciplined saving. With a fixed amount deducted from your bank account each month, you do not have to worry about making manual transfers. This allows one to be consistent and makes it easier to develop a habit of saving early in life, an important step toward long-term financial stability.
2. Guaranteed Returns with Low Risk
Another benefit of a recurring deposit or an RD account is that it offers fixed interest rates. This means your returns are guaranteed, regardless of market conditions. For youngsters who may not yet be comfortable taking financial risks, this low-risk tool can help you start your savings journey. You can use an RD calculator to estimate how much your savings will grow over time with a specific interest rate. This can help you plan your goals better.
3. Easy to Start and Maintain
Opening an RD account is simple, as you can do it online too. Most banks allow you to start with minimal documentation and a small monthly deposit, sometimes as low as ₹500. As there is no need for large lump-sum investments, RDs can be especially suitable for students or fresh graduates. Managing the recurring deposit account is easy, too. You can track the RD from the bank’s app, and the monthly deposits are automatically deducted from your savings account.
4. Helps in Goal-based Saving
As a young individual, you will likely have several goals. An RD can help you plan for those. Whether you want to buy a laptop, go on a trip, or save for higher education, an RD helps you plan and achieve short-term financial goals. You can estimate how much you will accumulate over a period by using an RD calculator and adjusting your monthly deposit accordingly. Once the deposit matures, you can withdraw the money and fund your dreams.
5. Supports Financial Discipline Without Pressure
One of the key advantages of RDs is that they do not require you to make large financial decisions all at once. You can choose the deposit amount and tenure that suits your income. While the flexibility makes RDs a beginner-friendly tool, the fixed commitment encourages financial discipline without making you feel financially burdened.
For the young individual stepping into the world of savings and investments, a recurring deposit account offers a simple yet effective way forward. The several advantages of an RD account, such as consistent savings, guaranteed returns, and goal-based planning, make it a great starting point. While the recurring deposit advantages are remarkable, it is important to keep the taxation and other aspects related to RDs in mind. In addition, one should also opt for other financial products like life insurance, investment plans, and more as one moves ahead in life. The more aware and well-prepared you are, the better optimised your finances will be.