For millions of savers who rely on National Savings as a stable source of income, the government has announced an important update. The Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) has revised profit rates on multiple National Savings schemes, a move that directly affects pensioners, senior citizens, and long-term investors.
This article explains what has changed, the new profit rates, who is most affected, and what investors should consider next.
What Is the Latest Government Update
The government, through CDNS, has revised profit rates across several National Savings schemes, with the new rates effective from January 23, 2026.
Most schemes have seen a reduction in returns, while a few have been kept unchanged. These revisions usually reflect broader economic conditions, including inflation trends and monetary policy adjustments.
Revised Profit Rate for Defence Savings Certificates (DSC)
The Defence Savings Certificates, a popular long-term investment option, have seen a reduction.
Updated DSC Rate
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New profit rate: 10.44% per annum
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Change: Reduced by 64 basis points
This adjustment affects investors who prefer long-term lump-sum investments with maturity-based returns.
Changes in Behbood, Pensioners, and Shuhada Accounts
Schemes designed specifically for senior citizens, pensioners, and families of martyrs have also been revised.
Updated Rates
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Behbood Savings Certificates (BSC)
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Pensioners Benefit Account (PBA)
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Shuhada Family Welfare Account (SFWA)
New profit rate: 12% per annum
Change: Reduced by 48 basis points
Despite the cut, these schemes still offer some of the highest returns among National Savings options.
Regular Income Certificates (RIC) – New Rate
The Regular Income Certificates, commonly used for monthly income, have also been revised.
Updated RIC Rate
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New profit rate: 9.96% per annum
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Change: Reduced by 60 basis points
This affects individuals who rely on predictable, periodic income from their savings.
Special Savings Certificates (SSC) Update
The Special Savings Certificates, often used for medium-term planning, have seen a noticeable reduction.
Updated SSC Rate
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New profit rate: 9.4% per annum
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Change: Reduced by 80 basis points
This is one of the largest cuts among the revised schemes.
Schemes With No or Limited Change
Not all schemes were reduced.
Unchanged or Newly Confirmed Rates
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Special Savings Account (SSA): 10.2% (unchanged)
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Savings Account: 9%
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Sarwa Islamic Savings Account (SISA): 9.92%
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Sarwa Islamic Term Account (SITA): 9.96%
Islamic savings options remain available for investors seeking Shariah-compliant returns.
Complete Snapshot of New Profit Rates
Here is a simplified overview of the updated rates:
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Defence Savings Certificates – 10.44%
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Behbood / Pensioners / Shuhada Accounts – 12%
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Regular Income Certificates – 9.96%
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Special Savings Certificates – 9.4%
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Special Savings Account – 10.2%
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Savings Account – 9%
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Sarwa Islamic Savings Account – 9.92%
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Sarwa Islamic Term Account – 9.96%
Who Is Most Affected by These Changes
The revised rates mainly impact:
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Pensioners relying on monthly or quarterly returns
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Senior citizens with fixed-income investments
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Long-term savers planning maturity-based returns
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Households using National Savings as a low-risk option
Even small percentage changes can affect annual income, especially for retirees.
What Savers Should Do Now
Investors are advised to review their savings plans carefully.
Practical Steps
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Check which schemes you are currently invested in
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Calculate the impact of revised rates on expected income
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Consider diversifying across different schemes
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Seek official guidance before making withdrawals or reinvestments
Existing investments continue under the new rates from the effective date.
Common clarity for savers
Do existing certificates get the new rate?
Yes. Revised rates apply from the effective date onward.
Are these rates guaranteed long term?
No. Profit rates can be revised periodically by the government.
Are Islamic savings affected?
Yes, but Islamic schemes remain competitive and available.
Conclusion
The government’s decision to set new profit rates for National Savings schemes reflects changing economic conditions and policy priorities. While most schemes have seen reduced returns, National Savings continues to offer secure and reliable options, especially for pensioners and risk-averse investors.
Savers should stay informed, reassess their financial plans, and rely on official updates to make timely and confident investment decisions.
