What is a digital savings account and why are more Indians choosing it
First BankFirst Bank(US:FRBA) The Economic Times·2026-01-06 07:08

Core Insights - The rise of digital savings accounts in India is attributed to their convenience, safety, and efficiency, particularly with offerings from banks like IDFC FIRST Bank [1][10] Features of Digital Savings Accounts - Digital savings accounts operate entirely online, allowing users to open accounts, verify identity, and manage funds without visiting a branch [2] - IDFC FIRST Bank offers a paperless onboarding process with video KYC verification, providing full access to mobile and internet banking [2] - Fund transfers are hassle-free with multiple options such as NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, and UPI, enabling instant transactions without paperwork [3] Interest Rates and Financial Benefits - IDFC FIRST Bank provides a competitive interest rate structure: 3.00% for balances up to ₹5 lakh, 7.00% for ₹5 lakh to ₹10 crore, 6.00% for ₹10 crore to ₹25 crore, 5.00% for ₹25 crore to ₹100 crore, and 4.00% for balances above ₹100 crore [4][5] - This progressive interest rate system allows customers to earn better returns based on their account balance, offering an advantage over traditional savings accounts [5] Accessibility and Cost Efficiency - Digital savings accounts offer convenient withdrawal options, allowing users to access funds easily from any ATM in India without extra charges [6] - IDFC FIRST Bank waives several standard charges for services like IMPS, NEFT, RTGS transfers, cheque books, and SMS alerts, promoting steady savings growth without unnecessary deductions [6] Growing Popularity and Lifestyle Integration - The increasing popularity of digital savings accounts is driven by their simplicity, transparency, and accessibility, balancing security with ease of investment [7][10] - Each digital account includes a debit card for quick access to funds, enhancing lifestyle benefits such as increased transaction limits and access to airport lounges [7] - Digital savings accounts are viewed as a lifestyle upgrade, combining convenience, transparency, and better returns, making them suitable for both professionals and individuals looking to grow savings [8][10]