How to use the NSC Calculator (National Savings Certificate)
- Enter the amount you will invest.
- Enter the interest rate for the certificate. The default is 7.7%.
- Read the maturity amount, the interest earned and the total growth.
Formula used
Maturity = amount × (1 + rate)^5, with interest compounded once a year for the 5-year term.
Worked example
Here is the NSC Calculator (National Savings Certificate) worked through with the example values shown above, so you can check each step by hand.
| Inputs | |
|---|---|
| Amount invested | ₹1,00,000 |
| Interest rate (per year) | 7.7 % |
| Result | |
| Maturity amount after 5 years | ₹1,44,903 |
| Interest earned | ₹44,903 |
| Total growth over 5 years | 44.9% |
Maturity amount by investment
At the default 7.7% a year for 5 years.
| Amount invested | Maturity amount after 5 years | Interest earned |
|---|---|---|
| ₹10,000 | ₹14,490 | ₹4,490 |
| ₹50,000 | ₹72,452 | ₹22,452 |
| ₹1,00,000 | ₹1,44,903 | ₹44,903 |
| ₹5,00,000 | ₹7,24,517 | ₹2,24,517 |
| ₹10,00,000 | ₹14,49,034 | ₹4,49,034 |
How NSC interest works
Interest compounds annually and is paid at the end of five years, not each year. For ₹1,00,000 at 7.7%, the maturity amount is ₹1,44,903, so the interest earned is ₹44,903, a total growth of 44.9%.
That is the same as multiplying the amount by 1.077 five times. The calculator uses exactly that formula, so you can check any result by hand.
The rate and how it is set
The government sets small-savings rates every quarter. The NSC rate was 7.7% for October to December 2026. The rate that applies to you is the one in force on the day you buy the certificate, and it stays fixed for the five years, whatever the later quarters bring.
That is why the rate is an input. At 7% instead of 7.7%, ₹1,00,000 grows to ₹1,40,255 rather than ₹1,44,903. Check the latest rate at your post office before you buy.
Comparing amounts
The result scales with the amount. ₹10,00,000 at 7.7% matures at ₹14,49,034. The table above shows several amounts side by side so you can see the interest earned for each.
NSC suits people who want a safe, fixed outcome and do not need the money for five years. It is not a way to earn regular income, because nothing is paid out until maturity.
Tax and other points
The interest is taxable. In the first four years the accrued interest is treated as reinvested, and the investment may qualify for a deduction under section 80C in the old tax regime, while the final year’s interest is taxed as income. The new regime does not allow the 80C deduction. Rules can change, so check the current position or ask a tax adviser.
This calculator ignores tax and assumes you hold the certificate to maturity. Early encashment is allowed only in specific cases such as the death of the holder.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NSC interest rate?
It was 7.7% for October to December 2026 and is reviewed every quarter. Your certificate keeps the rate from the day you buy it.
How often does NSC interest compound?
Once a year. It is paid together with the principal at maturity.
What is the lock-in period?
Five years.
Is there a maximum investment?
There is no upper limit, though only the amount eligible under section 80C is deductible in the old regime.
Is NSC safe?
It is a government-backed scheme, so credit risk is considered very low. Its returns are fixed, not market-linked.
Can I get regular income from NSC?
No. For regular interest payments see the senior citizens’ scheme or a bank deposit with payouts.
This calculator gives estimates for information only. Actual figures from a bank, employer, tax authority or doctor may differ. It is not financial, tax, legal or medical advice.