FD vs Small Savings: Which Offers More? Compare Rates, Tax, Lock-in for Better Returns

• Small Savings Schemes (SSS) like PPF, NSC offer 6.7%-7.5% interest, generally higher than FD's 6.25%-6.4%.
• SSS come with lock-in periods (NSC 5 years, PPF 15 years), while FDs are flexible for short-term goals.
• FD interest is taxable per your slab; SSS interest (PPF, NSC) is often tax-free, offering better post-tax returns.
• Experts advise a balanced portfolio, combining FDs for short-term and SSS for mid/long-term financial goals.

Why It Matters: Choose between FD and Small Savings based on interest, lock-in, tax benefits, and investment goals.