Why a PPF Calculator Projection May Differ From Actual Maturity

A projection standardizes assumptions; the account follows actual events

A PPF calculator projection may differ from eventual account maturity because the calculator applies one constant assumed rate to one beginning-of-year contribution in every modeled year. An actual account follows notified rates, deposit dates and applicable scheme processing over time.

A difference does not by itself mean the calculator made an arithmetic error. It can mean that the projection assumptions and the account's actual history were different.

Notified rates can change while the calculator rate stays constant

The calculator repeats the rate entered by the user for the full tenure. It does not retrieve Government notifications or reproduce historical and future rate changes.

An actual account receives the treatment applicable under the scheme for the relevant periods. A 15-year projection at 7.1% is therefore an illustrative constant-rate scenario, not a promise that 7.1% will apply for 15 years.

Actual deposit dates can change the eligible balance

The projection adds the full annual contribution at the beginning of each modeled year. Actual deposits may be made in a lump sum or instalments, and the verified scheme uses the lowest balance between the close of the fifth day and month-end for monthly interest eligibility.

Interest is credited at the end of the year. The calculator does not model those monthly eligible balances, intra-year deposits or account-office entries.

One contribution schedule, three illustrative constant rates

Each row below uses ₹1,00,000 at the beginning of every modeled year for 15 years. Only the assumed rate changes. The rates are sensitivity inputs, not forecasts of future PPF rates.

Account events and processing are outside the projection

Changes to contribution amounts or dates, continuation after maturity and other account events can alter the real history. The calculator does not determine extension, withdrawal, loan, premature-closure or tax treatment.

Displayed rupee values are rounded to whole rupees while the engine retains unrounded values. Official account records and the account office's processing under the applicable rules determine the statutory account outcome.

Review the calculation convention in How PPF Interest Is Calculated, return to PPF Explained, or test another assumption in the PPF Calculator.