The Department of Posts has said that it will freeze all small savings accounts if they are not closed or extended even after three years from the date of maturity. This means no one can do any transaction in those accounts. To start the account again, the account holder must give the required documents to the post office.
As per The Economic Times, an order dated July 15, 2025, says that this freezing process will happen two times every year. This will help find such inactive accounts and keep the depositors’ money safe. The schemes under this rule include Time Deposit, Monthly Income Scheme, National Savings Certificate (NSC), Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP), and others.
Which accounts will be frozen?
The Postal Department says that many small savings accounts can be frozen. These accounts include Time Deposit, Monthly Income Scheme, National Savings Certificate, Senior Citizen Savings Scheme, Kisan Vikas Patra, Recurring Deposit and Public Provident Fund.
What will happen if the account is frozen?
If your post office savings account is frozen, you will not be able to deposit or withdraw any money. You also cannot use standing orders or online services.
The process to find and freeze such accounts will start on July 1 and January 1 every year. This process will be completed in 15 days. So, accounts that complete three years on June 30 and December 31 will be frozen.
How to unfreeze your small savings account?
If your account is frozen, you will have to reopen it. For this, you need to go to any post office and give the required documents. You must give your passbook or certificate, your KYC documents like mobile number, PAN card and Aadhaar card or any address proof.
You also need to give the account closure form, your passbook and details of your bank or post office savings account. A cancelled cheque or a copy of your passbook is also needed so that your maturity amount can be sent to your account.
The post office will first check your details and match your signature. If everything is correct, your account will be reopened. Then the maturity amount will be sent to your bank or post office savings account through ECS, which is Electronic Clearing Service.
