The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced important changes to provide relief to ordinary customers.
These changes apply to Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) accounts, also known as zero-balance accounts.
Under the new rules, customers will get several facilities, including:
Monthly deposit limits
Free ATM or debit card access without renewal fees
A checkbook with at least 25 pages every year
Internet and mobile banking
A passbook or monthly statement
Banks will also allow a minimum of four free withdrawals per month. These will include withdrawals from the bank’s own ATM as well as other bank ATMs.
Big Relief on Digital Payments
Digital payment transactions such as UPI, IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS will not be counted as part of the withdrawal limit.
This means customers will not be charged for any digital transactions made through these services.
Existing BSBD account holders can request these newly added facilities.
Customers who have regular savings accounts can also convert them into BSBD accounts, as long as they do not already have an account in another bank.
When Will the New Rules Start?
These new changes will be implemented from April 1, 2026. However, banks may choose to introduce them earlier if they wish.
RBI has issued new guidelines under the “Responsible Business Conduct Directions, 2025.” These guidelines officially update the structure and facilities of BSBD accounts.
With these rules, the minimum facilities available in BSBD accounts have increased, giving better access and benefits to customers with low-value deposits.
