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Monthly or quarterly payouts: Which boosts your high-interest savings account?

04 Aug 2025 by Team FinFIRST

high-interest savings account

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If you have already explored high-interest savings accounts, you understand their potential to grow your money faster than traditional savings schemes. But to truly maximise your returns, it's not just about the interest rate; the payout frequency plays a crucial role, too.

Have you ever wondered if opting for monthly interest payouts over quarterly payouts can make a difference? Let’s decode this and help you make an informed choice.

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Understanding monthly vs. quarterly interest payouts

At its core, the difference between monthly and quarterly payouts lies in how often your bank credits interest into your account.

Monthly interest payout means you receive interest on your savings every month, usually around the same date, directly credited to your savings account
Quarterly interest payout, on the other hand, deposits the interest earnings only once every three months

While you may believe that choosing a savings account with the best interest rates is good enough, the payout frequency you opt for can have a significant impact on how your money works for you in the short and long terms.

Illustration idea

Monthly vs. quarterly interest payouts at a glance

Feature	Monthly interest payout	Quarterly interest payout
Payout frequency	Every month	Every three months
Visibility and control	More regular, predictable cash flow	Less frequent, longer wait
Liquidity for expenses	Higher, suitable for recurring bills	Lower, needs planning for periodic needs
Impact on growth	Slightly higher due to frequent compounding	Slightly lower, less frequent interest accrual
Best for	Managing recurring expenses, short-term goals	Long-term savings, less need for cash flow

Why payout frequency could make or break your savings growth

Beyond the rate, how often you receive your interest - monthly or quarterly - can quietly influence both your returns and how easily you can use that money. Here’s how:

1. Compounding

When interest is paid more frequently, say monthly, your savings benefit from more frequent compounding. Each payment adds to the principal, which then earns interest in subsequent periods, helping your savings grow faster.

2. Liquidity

With monthly payouts, you get regular access to the interest earned, giving you more liquidity and convenience for recurring expenses or unexpected needs.

A real-world example: How payout frequency affects returns

Let’s make this clearer with an example:

Suppose you invest ₹1,00,000 in a high-interest savings account offering compounding at 7% per annum. Here’s what your returns will look like based on the type of payout option you choose:

1. Quarterly interest payout

You earn ₹1,750 every quarter (₹1,00,000 × 7% ÷ 4).

At the end of the year, your total interest = ₹1,750 × 4 = ₹7,000.

2. Monthly interest payout with compounding

Each month, you earn ₹583.33 (₹1,00,000 × 7% ÷ 12).

But here’s where it adds up: if the monthly interest is credited back into the account and earns interest in the following months, your returns grow. By the end of the year, your total interest with monthly compounding becomes approximately ₹7,229 - not just ₹7,000.

That’s ₹229 more without doing anything extra - just by choosing a payout that supports frequent compounding.

Why monthly payouts align better with recurring expenses and short-term goals

If you are managing recurring expenses like rent, utilities, or EMIs, monthly interest payouts can offer consistent cash flow - reducing the need to dip into the principal or other savings.

Moreover, frequent payouts support short-term financial goals, giving you quick access to earned interest without waiting three months for quarterly payments. It simplifies your money management, providing better control over your finances.

Why choose IDFC FIRST Bank for smarter savings

If you're looking to unlock the full potential of a high-interest savings account, IDFC FIRST Bank offers a host of features designed to support both growth and flexibility:

1. Competitive interest rates of up to 7% per annum with monthly interest credits

2. Zero-fee banking on all savings account services

3. Doorstep banking support and robust digital services with senior citizen savings accounts for maximum comfort and control

4. A quick and stress-free application process, whether online or at a nearby branch

5. Complimentary health benefits for a year with MediBuddy on the women’s savings account and senior citizen savings account variants

6. Auto sweep-in and sweep-out facility

7. Preferential interest rates on fixed and recurring deposits with senior citizen savings accounts

8. Complimentary cyber insurance coverage worth ₹2 lakhs with senior citizen savings accounts

9. Rewarding choice of debit cards with additional perks and privileges

10. Recognised among the World’s Best Banks 2025 by Forbes in partnership with Statista

Ready to grow your money with more control and better returns? Take the next step and experience the benefits of monthly interest credits and top-tier features. Open your IDFC FIRST Bank Savings Account today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between interest payout and interest compounding?

Interest payout refers to how often you receive the earned interest, like a monthly interest payout. Compounding, however, is how frequently that interest is added to your principal. A high-interest savings account offering monthly compounding, while payouts can maximise returns by increasing both liquidity and growth potential.

Are monthly interest payouts suitable for long-term wealth building?

Yes, especially if you reinvest. A monthly interest payout enables regular reinvestment or recurring expenses, supporting disciplined savings. When combined with compounding, this structure can lead to greater returns, helping you reach long-term financial goals faster compared to quarterly or annual payout accounts.

Why should I consider opening a savings account with IDFC FIRST Bank?

An IDFC FIRST Bank Savings Account provides high interest rates, zero-fee banking, and digital convenience with monthly interest credits. It offers an effortless way to manage your finances, earn competitive returns, and enjoy a seamless, modern banking experience.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.

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