Girl Child Investment Comparator
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How it works
Three philosophies compete for a daughter's future. SSY (8.2%, tax-free, government-backed) is the safe maximum-return fixed option — nothing in fixed income beats it today. PPF (7.1%) is the flexible cousin with the same tax treatment. A mutual fund will likely beat both over 15+ years, with volatility and tax as the price.
The smart play is rarely all-or-nothing: SSY up to what you can (max ₹1.5L/year) locks in a guaranteed tax-free base, and an equity fund SIP chases growth on top. Time is the real asset — starting at age 3 vs age 8 changes the SSY maturity by lakhs.
Watch the SSY clock: deposits are only for 15 years from opening (or till she turns 18), and the account matures at 21 regardless. Open early, automate deposits, and do not miss years — the 8.2% compounds only on what is actually in there.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current SSY interest rate?
8.2% per annum (Oct–Dec 2026 quarter), compounded yearly. Rates are revised quarterly but have held steady for 10 consecutive quarters.
How long do I deposit in SSY?
15 years from account opening (or until the girl turns 18, whichever gives fewer deposit years). The account then keeps earning interest until maturity at age 21.
What is the maximum I can put in SSY?
₹1.5 lakh per financial year per girl child. Two daughters = two accounts = ₹3L/year. Minimum is just ₹250/year to keep it active.
Is SSY better than PPF?
Rate-wise, yes (8.2% vs 7.1%) with identical EEE tax treatment. But SSY locks money till age 21 with limited withdrawals; PPF allows extension in 5-year blocks and loans/withdrawals from year 6–7.
Can I open SSY for a 12-year-old?
No — only before she turns 10. Miss the window and PPF + mutual funds become the alternatives.
Is SSY interest taxable?
No — EEE status: deposits get 80C deduction, interest is tax-free, maturity is tax-free. One of the few truly tax-free instruments left.
Can I withdraw for her education?
Yes — up to 50% of the balance at age 18 for higher education. Full closure is allowed at 21, or on marriage after 18.
Mutual fund vs SSY — which wins?
Over 15+ years, equity funds at 11–12% usually beat SSY's 8.2% even after tax — but with real volatility. SSY is guaranteed. Most planners suggest both: SSY for certainty, equity for growth.
What happens if I miss a year's deposit?
A ₹50 penalty per missed year revives the account; missed years earn no interest on the undeposited amount. Set up auto-debit and forget it.
NRI parents — can we open SSY?
No — only resident Indians can open new SSY accounts. If you become NRI later, existing accounts continue till maturity but cannot be extended.