The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is one of the most trusted long-term investment schemes in India. It offers guaranteed returns, tax benefits under Section 80C, and complete safety since it is backed by the Government of India. If you want to start investing, here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to open a PPF account through a bank or post office.
Who Can Open a PPF Account?
- Any Indian citizen can open a PPF account.
- A parent or guardian can open a PPF account for a minor child.
- Only one PPF account per person is allowed (excluding a minor account).
- HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families) and NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) cannot open new PPF accounts. However, NRIs can continue deposits in existing accounts until maturity.
Documents Required to Open a PPF Account
Before you start, keep the following documents ready:
- Identity Proof – Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, or Passport
- Address Proof – Aadhaar, Utility Bill, Passport, or Driving License
- PAN Card (mandatory in most banks)
- Passport-size photographs
- Bank passbook/statement (if opening offline at bank branch)
How to Open a PPF Account in a Bank
Most major banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis, and others allow you to open a PPF account.
Step-by-Step Process (Online)
- Log in to your net banking account.
- Look for the option ‘Open a PPF Account’ under services or deposits.
- Select ‘Self’ or ‘Minor’ (if opening for your child).
- Fill in required details – Aadhaar, PAN, nominee, and deposit amount.
- Verify using OTP/e-signature linked with Aadhaar.
- Your PPF account number will be generated instantly.
Step-by-Step Process (Offline)
- Visit your bank branch with required documents.
- Fill out the PPF account opening form (Form A).
- Submit documents, photographs, and first deposit (minimum ₹500).
- The bank will issue a PPF passbook with account details.
How to Open a PPF Account in a Post Office
The Post Office also allows you to open and manage a PPF account.
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit your nearest Post Office branch.
- Collect the PPF Account Opening Form (Form A).
- Submit it along with KYC documents and a passport-size photograph.
- Make your first deposit (minimum ₹500).
- You will get a PPF passbook to track deposits and balance.
Online vs Offline PPF Account Opening – Key Differences
| Feature |
Bank Online |
Bank Offline |
Post Office |
| Process |
Quick, paperless |
Requires branch visit |
Requires branch visit |
| Time Taken |
Instant account number |
1-2 working days |
1-2 working days |
| Access |
Net banking, mobile app |
Passbook |
Passbook / India Post Internet Banking |
| Best For |
Tech-savvy users |
People preferring manual process |
Rural areas or non-digital users |
FAQs on Opening a PPF Account
Q1. Who is eligible to open a PPF account?
Any Indian citizen. Parents/guardians can open one for minors. NRIs and HUFs cannot open new accounts.
Q2. Can I open a PPF account online without visiting the bank?
Yes, if your bank offers online PPF account opening. Aadhaar and PAN are required.
Q3. What is the minimum deposit to open a PPF account?
₹500. You can invest up to ₹1.5 lakh per year.
Q4. Can I open more than one PPF account?
No, only one account per individual is allowed. You can also open one for your minor child.
Q5. Which is better – bank or post office PPF account?
Both are equally safe. Banks offer better online access, while post offices are useful in rural areas.
Opening a PPF account is simple, whether through a bank or post office.
- If you want quick access and convenience, choose online opening through your bank.
- If you prefer the traditional method, go for offline opening at a bank branch or post office.
Once opened, remember to deposit before the 5th of the month for maximum interest benefits.
