With the start of a new quarter in July, the government may update interest rates for small savings schemes. Schemes like PPF, Sukanya Samriddhi, NSC, KVP, MIS, Post Office Savings Account, and 3-Year FDs could see a rate hike, cut, or no change.
The official announcement is expected by the end of June 30.
Aadhaar Made Mandatory for New PAN Cards
From July 1, you must provide Aadhaar number and get it verified for applying for a new PAN card. Earlier, only an ID proof and birth certificate were needed. The goal is to promote digitisation and better tax compliance.
ITR Filing Deadline Extended
For the financial year 2025-26, the last date to file Income Tax Returns (ITR) has been extended from July 31 to September 15, 2025. Salaried individuals now get 46 extra days to file returns. It is still advised to file early to avoid server rush.
SBI Credit Cards: Insurance and Charge Rule Changes
From July 15, 2025, SBI will remove air accident insurance worth Rs 1 crore from some premium cards like SBI ELITE, Miles ELITE, and PRIME. Also, calculation of Minimum Amount Due will change to include GST, EMI, full interest and charges, and 2% of spending and cash advances.
HDFC Credit Cards: New Charges on Select Transactions
From July 1, HDFC Bank will charge 1 percent on certain transactions, up to Rs 4,999 per transaction. Charges apply on:
- Rent payments
- Skill gaming spends above Rs 10,000/month
- Utility bills above Rs 50,000 (except insurance)
- Wallet loading above Rs 10,000
ICICI Bank Revises Service Charges
Starting July 1, ICICI Bank will allow:
- 5 free financial ATM transactions per month from its own ATMs. After that, each will cost Rs 23.
On other bank ATMs: 3 free in metros, 5 in non-metros, then Rs 23 per financial and Rs 8.50 per non-financial transaction.
International ATM withdrawals: Rs 125 fee + 3.5% currency conversion + Rs 25 extra fee.
