FDR Full Form: What is FDR in Banking & How It Works
02 July 2025 · Sachin Gadekar
A complete guide by Ultra on the full form of FDR, its meaning in banking, features, benefits, and how to open an FDR in India.

What is FDR?
Introduction
If you have ever visited a bank to open a fixed deposit, you must have heard the term FDR. But what is the FDR full form? How is it different from a normal FD? In this article, we at Ultra explain the meaning of FDR, how it works in banking, its features, and why it remains a trusted savings option for millions of Indians.
FDR full form is Fixed Deposit Receipt.
When you invest a lump sum amount in a fixed deposit account with a bank or financial institution, they issue a certificate or receipt known as an FDR. This receipt acts as a proof of your deposit and contains all important details such as:
Principal amount deposited
Tenure of the deposit
Interest rate applicable
Maturity date
Interest payout option
Terms and conditions
So, when someone says FDR in bank, they are simply referring to the document or receipt you get after opening a Fixed Deposit.
FDR Full Form in Banking
In banking terms, FDR full form is Fixed Deposit Receipt. It is an official document that represents your fixed deposit with the bank. Unlike a savings account which is flexible, an FDR locks your money for a fixed tenure at a fixed rate of interest.
Key Features of an FDR
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Full Form | Fixed Deposit Receipt |
Issued By | Banks & financial institutions |
Purpose | Proof of fixed deposit |
Minimum Deposit | Varies, often starts from ₹1,000 |
Tenure | From 7 days up to 10 years |
Interest | Fixed rate, higher than savings account |
Premature Withdrawal | Allowed with penalty |
Loan Against FDR | Yes, available |
Benefits of FDR
Many people open an FDR due to its simplicity and safety. Here’s why it’s popular:
1. Assured Returns:
You earn guaranteed returns at a fixed interest rate, unaffected by market fluctuations.
2. Flexible Tenure:
Choose any term from a few days to several years as per your goals.
3. Safety:
Your money is secure with RBI-regulated banks and insured up to ₹5 lakh under DICGC.
4. Loan Facility:
Need urgent cash? You can take a loan against your FDR without breaking it.
5. Easy Renewal:
You can renew your FDR on maturity or reinvest the principal and interest.
How is FDR Different from FD?
Technically, FDR and FD refer to the same thing but in slightly different contexts.
FD (Fixed Deposit) is the product you invest in.
FDR (Fixed Deposit Receipt) is the proof of that investment.
So, when you open an FD, the bank issues an FDR to confirm your deposit.
How to Get an FDR in a Bank?
Opening an FDR is simple. Here’s how you can do it:
Online:
Login to your bank’s net banking or mobile app.
Go to the ‘Deposits’ or ‘Fixed Deposits’ section.
Enter the amount, tenure and interest payout preference.
Confirm your details and submit.
The bank will generate an FDR online which you can download.
Offline:
Visit your nearest bank branch.
Fill the FD application form.
Deposit the amount by cash or cheque.
The bank will issue a physical FDR.
Always keep your FDR safe as you may need it for premature withdrawal, loan or renewal.
Can You Lose an FDR?
If you lose your physical FDR, don’t worry. Visit your bank branch immediately. The bank will verify your identity and issue a duplicate FDR after completing formalities like an indemnity bond.
Important Things to Remember about FDR
Premature closure is allowed but may attract a penalty.
TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is applicable if annual FD interest exceeds ₹40,000 (₹50,000 for senior citizens).
You can choose interest payout monthly, quarterly, or at maturity.
Always update your nominee details for easy claim settlement.
Alternatives to FDR
While FDRs are safe, their post-tax returns may be lower than inflation. If you are looking for better returns with moderate risk, explore bonds, corporate deposits, invoice discounting, and other alternatives on trusted platforms like Ultra.
FAQs on FDR
Q1: What is FDR full form?
A: FDR full form is Fixed Deposit Receipt. It is proof of your fixed deposit with a bank.
Q2: How to get an FDR?
A: Open an FD in your bank through net banking, mobile app or branch. The bank will issue an FDR.
Q3: Is FDR safe?
A: Yes, FDRs with banks are very safe and insured up to ₹5 lakh.
Q4: Can I get a loan on FDR?
A: Yes, banks offer loans against FDRs at attractive rates without breaking the deposit.
Q5: What happens if I lose my FDR?
A: Visit your branch, submit an application and you will get a duplicate FDR.
Final Thoughts
The Fixed Deposit Receipt (FDR) is a simple yet powerful tool for safe savings. Whether you want guaranteed returns or a secured way to park your surplus cash, an FDR in bank remains a reliable option.
If you wish to explore more investment avenues with diversified fixed-income opportunities, visit Ultra and discover smart ways to grow your wealth.