A gold loan is a secured loan where you pledge gold jewellery or coins to access funds for personal or business needs. In 2026, gold loan interest rates in India range from 8.05% to 27% p.a., depending on the lender, loan amount, gold purity, tenure, and whether you choose a bank or NBFC.Key HighlightsRates: Major banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Canara Bank offer gold loans starting at 8.75% to 9.30% per annum.Limits: Loan amounts range from ₹20,000 to ₹50 lakh, with tenures of 6 - 36 months.Fees: Processing fees are typically low, ranging from 0.25% to 1%, with some schemes offering minimal or no fees.Eligibility: Eligibility and interest rates vary based on borrower profile, such as salaried, self-employed, or agricultural.What is the Gold Loan Interest Rate? A gold loan interest rate is the percentage charged by banks or financial institutions against the loan amount provided when borrowers pledge gold as collateral. In India, gold loan interest rates generally range from 8.55% to 27% per annum. Borrowers can repay the interest either in monthly installments or as a lump sum based on the lender's terms.Gold Loan Interest Rate Provided by Top Banks in India 2026 The table below compares the gold loan interest rates provided by top banks in India, along with the loan amount and tenure for 2026:BankInterest Rate (p.a.)Loan TenureProcessing FeeLoan LimitSBI8.75% onwardsUp to 36 months0.25% of the loan amount₹20,000 – ₹50 LakhsCanara Bank8.95% onwardsUp to 12 monthsUp to ₹2,750 + GSTUp to ₹35 LakhsUnion Bank of India9.10% – 9.35%Up to 12 months0.50% of the loan amount + GSTUp to ₹50 LakhsIndian Overseas Bank8.20% – 11.60%Up to 12 monthsVaries by loan amount₹25,000 – ₹50 LakhsPNB8.35% onwards12 months0.30% of the loan amount + GST₹25,000 – ₹25 LakhsKarnataka Bank10.09% – 10.54%Up to 12 monthsNILUp to ₹50 LakhsBank of Baroda9.00% onwardsUp to 36 monthsApplicable charges + GSTUp to ₹50 LakhsHDFC Bank9.30% – 17.86%6 to 42 monthsUp to 1% of disbursal amount + taxes₹25,000 – ₹1 CroreFederal Bank9.99% onwardsUp to 12 monthsNIL₹3,000 – ₹1.5 CroreCentral Bank of India8.80% – 9.80%*Up to 12 months0.25% of the loan amount + GST₹10,000 – ₹40 LakhsBank of India8.60% – 8.75%Up to 12 monthsUp to ₹1,500₹20,000 – ₹30 LakhsICICI Bank9.15% – 16.75%Up to 12 monthsUp to 2%* of the loan amountUp to ₹2 CroresAxis Bank9.75% – 17.00%6 to 36 months0.5% of the loan amount + GST₹25,001 – ₹40 LakhsComparison of Gold Loan Interest Rates Provided by Top Non-Banking Institutions in IndiaGiven below is a comparative outline of varying gold loan interest rates provided by different financial institutions in India other than leading banks: Name of the LenderInterest Rate (p.a.)Processing FeesLoan TenureBajaj Finserv9.50% – 24.00%0.15% of the loan amountUp to 12 monthsMuthoot Finance12.50% – 22.00%₹100 – ₹1,00012 monthsIIFL Finance11.88% – 27.00%Up to 2% of the loan amountUp to 24 monthsManappuram Finance9.90% – 21.67%₹25 + applicable taxesAround 3 monthsPoonawalla FincorpStarting from 11%Up to 2% + applicable taxesUp to 36 monthsFeatures of Gold LoanGold loans provide a convenient and secure borrowing option for individuals who require quick access to funds by pledging their gold assets.Secured loan using gold jewellery or coins as collateral.Quick disbursal and minimal documentation.Short repayment tenures ranging from 3 months to 3 years.Interest payment options include EMI, bullet repayment, or partial prepayment.No impact of credit score on loan approval, but it may affect the interest rate.Lower interest rate compared to a personal loan.Pledged gold is returned on successful repayment.Eligibility for Gold LoanThe eligibility criteria for a gold loan vary by lender. Hence, check the criteria outlined on the lender's website before applying for a gold loan.Here are some common eligibility criteria set by most lenders in India for gold loans: An applicant should be 18 years of age or above.He/she must pledge gold ornaments or articles as security against the loan. The applicant should pledge gold of 18 carats or above as security. Documents Required to Apply for Gold LoanThe list of documents required at the time of applying for a gold loan varies, depending on the lender’s terms and conditions.

The EPIC number in Voter ID card is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI). EPIC stands for Election Photo Identity Card. This number identifies an individual as a registered voter and is required to search the name in the voter list, download e-EPIC, or update voter details.This guide explains what is EPIC number in Voter ID and how to find the same.EPIC Number in Voter ID Card - Overview ParticularsDetailsWhere to Find the EPIC NumberPrinted on the front side of the Voter ID card.Official PortalAvailable on the Voters' Service Portal (ECI).Common UsesSearch the voter list, download e-EPIC and update voter details.What is EPIC Number in Voter ID Card?The EPIC number in voter ID card is a unique identification number assigned to every registered voter in India. The EPIC number in voter ID is a 10-digit alpha-numeric code. It confirms that:You are enrolled in the electoral roll.You are eligible to vote.Your voter details are recorded in the Election Commission database.The EPIC number is mandatory for accessing various voter services online. Where is the EPIC Number on a Voter ID Card?The location of the EPIC number varies slightly depending on the format of your Voter ID card.Voter ID FormatWhere to Find the EPIC NumberOld Laminated Voter ID CardPrinted on the front side, usually near the top above or beside the photograph.PVC Voter ID CardPrinted on the front side within the personal details section.e-EPIC (PDF)Available on the first page near the applicant's name and personal details.How to Find the EPIC Number in Voter ID Online?Follow the steps below to learn how to find the EPIC number in your voter ID online: Step 1: Click on the ‘Search Your Name in Voter List’ tab in the Voters’ Service Portal.Step 2: Select any one of these options - ‘Search by Details’ or ‘Search by Mobile’.Step 3: Choose your state and preferred language option from the drop-down list. Enter the required details, captcha code and click ‘Search’. Your EPIC number will be displayed in the ‘EPIC Number’ column along with your voter ID details as per the registration in the electoral roll. How to Download Voter ID with EPIC Number?Follow the simple steps below to download the voter ID with EPIC number: Step 1: Click ‘Login’ on the Voters’ Service Portal.Step 2: Enter the mobile number, password and captcha code and click the ‘Request OTP’ button.  Step 3: Enter the OTP received on your mobile phone and click the ‘Verify & Login’ button.Step 4: Click on the ‘E-EPIC Download’ tab. Step 5: Select the ‘EPIC No’ or ‘Form Reference no.’ option.Step 6: Enter the EPIC number or Form Reference Number, select the state and click ‘Search’. The reference number is available in the acknowledgement received after submitting Form 6.Step 7: The Voter ID details will be displayed on the screen.

Aadhaar card download by mobile number is quick and easy. You can download your e-Aadhaar instantly by verifying the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. Key HighlightsRequirement: Aadhaar number/EID/VID and a registered mobile number.Platforms: UIDAI website, mAadhaar app, or UMANG app.Verification: OTP is required to download e-Aadhaar online.Alternative: Face Authentication or Aadhaar Seva Kendra.What are the Requirements for Downloading an e-Aadhaar Card?To download your e-Aadhaar card online, you must meet the following requirements:A valid 12-digit Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).A mobile number linked to your Aadhaar to receive OTP.Access to the UIDAI official portal, mAadhaar app or UMANG app.A stable internet connection to complete the process.A PDF reader to view the downloaded Aadhaar.The password to open the Aadhaar PDF file, which is the first 4 letters of your name in uppercase followed by your year of birth (e.g., RAVI1995).How to Download an Aadhaar Card?Users can easily download your Aadhaar card through the UIDAI website, mAadhaar app or UMANG app. I. Aadhaar Card Download by Mobile Number via UIDAI WebsiteTo download Aadhar Card by Mobile Number via UIDAI Website, follow the steps below:Step 1: On the official UIDAI website. Step 2: Navigate to the 'My Aadhaar' section and click on ‘Download Aadhaar’ option under the ‘Get Aadhaar’. Step 3: Select the ‘Aadhaar Number’ option, enter Aadhaar number, captcha code and click on ‘Send OTP’.Step 4: Users will receive the OTP on your registered mobile number.Step 5: After entering the OTP in the required space, click ‘Verify and Download’.Step 6:  A password-protected Aadhaar Card PDF in the download folder. To open the PDF, users need to type the required password. It combines the first 4 letters of your name in capital letters and your birth year in YYYY format.II.

PAN card correction becomes necessary when details printed on the PAN card are incorrect, outdated, or incomplete. NSDL e-Gov, renamed Protean eGov Technologies, and the UTIITSL websites are the primary platforms for PAN card update online.Key HighlightsPAN card correction online: Through Protean (formerly NSDL e-Gov) or UTIITSL portals.PAN card correction offline: By visiting the nearest PAN center.Documents required: Identity, address and date of birth proof.Fees: Varies based on submission mode and PAN dispatch option.Application status tracking: Online portals, SMS, email or customer care through the acknowledgement number.April 2026 CBDT UpdateThe CBDT has introduced revised PAN correction compliance rules effective from 1 April 2026. Individual PAN modification requests now require the newly notified Form PAN CR-01, and PAN identity details must align exactly with Aadhaar records during verification.PAN identity details must exactly match Aadhaar records during verification.Additional document validation requirements have been introduced for demographic corrections.Aadhaar alone is no longer sufficient as standalone proof for date of birth verification in many correction cases.PAN correction requests must now route through authorised PAN service providers only.When is Form PAN CR-01 Required?Form PAN CR-01 is required for:Name correctionDate of birth correctionGender updateAddress modificationPhotograph or signature updateMobile number and email correctionPAN reprint requests involving demographic modificationsCommon Reasons for PAN Card CorrectionThe most common reasons for PAN card update include:Name change after marriageSpelling mistakes in the applicant’s nameIncorrect date of birthChange in residential addressMismatch between PAN and Aadhaar detailsMobile number or email ID updatePhoto or signature replacementLegal name change through gazette notificationCorrection in father’s nameUpdating company or entity information PAN Form 49A vs Form 49AAThe application forms used for PAN allocation vary based on the applicant’s residential status and entity category. Under the revised PAN framework, the earlier Forms 49A and 49AA have been replaced with a streamlined 4-form structure for new PAN allocations.Form TypeApplicable CategoryReplaced Legacy FormForm 93Individual Applicants (Indian Citizens)Form 49AForm 94Non-Individual Indian Entities (Companies, HUFs, Trusts, Firms registered in India)Form 49AForm 95Individual Foreign Applicants (Foreign Citizens, NRIs with foreign citizenship, OCIs)Form 49AAForm 96Non-Individual Overseas Entities (Foreign Companies, Firms and Organisations operating in India)Form 49AANote: Forms 93, 94, 95 and 96 apply only to fresh PAN allocations under the revised PAN framework. Existing PAN holders requesting demographic corrections, PAN detail updates, PAN reprints or PAN 2.0 upgrades must use the unified ‘Request for New PAN Card or/and Changes or Correction in PAN Data’ form instead.How to Update PAN on NSDL/Protean Portal?If you have applied for a PAN card via the Protean (NSDL) e-Gov website, then you need to do PAN card correction online by updating PAN details on that website.

Visa and Mastercard differ in various aspects, including their payment processing models, service charges, and exclusive perks. Understanding these differences can help customers choose the right card that aligns with the habits and financial goals.Key HighlightsBenefits: Both provide travel, purchase protection, and emergency assistance with unique perks.Comparison: Visa has wider acceptance, while Mastercard offers more premium travel benefits.Choice: Select the card based on your bank's features, rewards, and spending needs.What is Visa?Visa is the second-largest payment processing company globally, following China’s UnionPay, with over 50% market share in global transactions. Beyond credit and debit cards, Visa provides a suite of financial services, including fraud protection, ATM networks, retail partnerships, and business analytics.What is Mastercard?Mastercard was established in 1966 as a banking consortium to compete with Visa. While it does not directly issue cards, it partners with over 25,000 financial institutions globally to provide prepaid, debit, and credit card services. Mastercard generates revenue primarily through swipe fees (interchange fees) charged to banks for payment processing.Visa vs Mastercard: Key DifferencesFeatureVisaMastercardMarket ShareHigher transaction volume and wider global reachFewer cards in circulation compared to VisaPayment TechnologyVisa payWaveMastercard PayPassTransaction FeesCharges based on card volumeCharges a percentage of global dollar volumeExclusive Benefits: Visa vs MastercardBoth Visa and Mastercard offer a range of perks, including purchase protection, travel benefits, emergency assistance, and zero liability protection.

Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) allows PF withdrawal to members online through the EPFO Member Portal using UAN and Aadhaar OTP, with no employer approval needed for most claims. Members are allowed to make a full or partial withdrawal of their PF Balance upon fulfilling various eligibility criteria and withdrawal conditions.The new EPFO 3.0 framework allows members PF withdrawal through ATMs and UPI, increased auto settlement limits and with other prescribed benefits. EPF Withdrawal Rules 2026 - Key HighlightsParticularsEPF Scheme, 2026 UpdateEffective date29 June 2026Withdrawal categoriesReduced to 3 broad categories – Essential Needs, Housing Needs & Special CircumstancesMinimum balanceMembers must retain at least 25% of the eligible EPF balanceClaim settlementEligible online claims targeted to be settled within 3 working daysWithdrawal processAadhaar-based, paperless online claimsUnemployment withdrawalUp to 75% after one month of unemployment (subject to conditions)ObjectiveSimpler rules, quicker withdrawals and improved digital servicesWho Can Withdraw PF Online?Online PF withdrawal can be done by members who fulfill the following conditions:Activated UANAadhaar, PAN and bank account are verifiedMobile number linked with bank accountRetirement, unemployment or on meeting conditions for partial withdrawal. Updated date of exitEPF Withdrawal Online - Quick SummaryRequirements DetailsUAN activationMandatoryKYC verificationAadhaar and Bank accountEmployer approvalNot required for most online claimsProcessing timeUsually 7–20 daysFull withdrawal allowedAfter 2 months of unemployment or retirementDocuments Required For PF Withdrawal OnlineTo ensure than PF withdrawal application is not rejected make sure to the following requirements are complete:UAN & KYC: UAN must be activated. Also make sure to link Aadhaar and PAN, and verify it. Bank Details: Make sure that your bank account is linked with UAN. Also verify your bank details and update if there are any corrections. Date of Exit: Form 10C or Form 19 cannot be applied if Date of Exit is not updated. Make sure to update the Date of Exit under the Service History section.Service Overlap: Ensure you do not have overlapping dates between two different companies in your service history.How to Withdraw PF Online in 8 StepsThe following are the 8 steps to withdraw PF online:Step 1: Login to UAN Member Portal with UAN & Password.Step 2: Verify your KYC status under Manage > KYC to ensure your Aadhaar and Bank details are correct.Step 3: Go to the Online Services tab and select Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D).Step 4: Verify Bank Account details by entering the required data and click on Verify.Step 5: Click 'Yes' on certificate of undertakingStep 6: Click "Proceed for Online Claim".Step 7: Select the claim type from the dropdown:PF Advance (Form 31) – If you are still working.Only PF Withdrawal (Form 19) – If you have left the job.Only Pension Withdrawal (Form 10C) – If you have left the job.Step 8: Tick the disclaimer box, enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile, and click Submit.Once submitted you can now track your PF Claim Status.How to Withdraw PF via UMANG AppEPFO members also have the option to file for PF withdrawal claims through the UMANG app without having to visit the EPFO Members Portal through the following steps:Step 1: Open the UMANG app and log in using your registered mobile number.Step 2: Search for and select “EPFO” services.Step 3: Tap on “Raise Claim” under employee-centric services.Step 4: Enter your UAN and verify with OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.Step 5: Select the type of withdrawal claim:Full PF SettlementPartial PF Withdrawal (Advance)Pension Withdrawal (EPS)Step 6: Verify your bank account details linked with UAN.Step 7: Upload required documents, if applicable.Step 8: Submit the claim request.Step 9: Note the claim reference number to track status later. How to Withdraw PF OfflinePF withdrawal can be done offline by downloading the new Composite Claim Form (Aadhaar)/Composite Claim Form (non-Aadhaar).1.

The West Bengal (WB) Government launched the Annapurna Yojana, also known as Annapurna Bhandar Scheme, on 3 June 2026. Under this scheme, eligible women will receive ₹3,000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This scheme aims to empower women and enhance financial stability for families across the state.In the first phase of this scheme, beneficiaries will start receiving ₹3,000 rupees directly into their bank accounts from 3 June 2026. It is estimated that around two crore women will benefit from this scheme. As of the 3 June 2026, the government reported the first DBT amount will be deposited into the accounts of 28,25,769 beneficiaries.

The documents required for bank KYC help financial institutions verify your identity and address before providing banking and financial services. Understanding the documents required for KYC can help you complete the verification process quickly and comply with RBI guidelines.Documents Required for Bank KYCParticularsDetailsIdentity Documents AcceptedAadhaar card, Passport, PAN card, Driving Licence, Voter ID card and other officially valid documents accepted by the regulated entityAddress Documents AcceptedAadhaar card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID card, Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, Bank Statement and Ration CardKYC Verification MethodsOnline (e-KYC/Video KYC) and Offline (In-person KYC)Original Documents RequiredMay be required for verification during in-person KYCApplicable ForBanks, NBFCs, insurance companies, mutual funds and other RBI-regulated financial institutionsWhy are Documents Required For KYC?The Reserve Bank of India initiated the KYC process as a part of compliance with the Prevention of Money Laundering (PML) Act and rules. The RBI introduced this process in 2004 and instructed all financial institutions to make KYC compliance mandatory for all their customers. Documents required for bank KYC and other financial institutions ensure that all the financial transactions are carried out legally and comply with the anti-money laundering norms.KYC compliance also enables the authorities to track bank accounts that carry out malpractices, financial frauds, and transactions associated with terrorism funding, money laundering, or any other illegal offences.List Of Valid KYC DocumentsHere is the list of valid KYC documents that would be required to be provided to the respective authorities for completing the KYC process:I. Proof of Identity (Any one of the following documents)Aadhaar cardPassportDriving licenceVoter IDPAN card Photo ID cards issued by the Central or State government entities, public financial institutions and public sector undertakingsII. Proof of Address (Any one of the following documents)Voter ID card Driving licensePassportUtility bills, such as water bill, electricity, gas bill, or telephone bill (not older than one month)Ration cardRental agreementSale deedPassbook or bank statement containing the addressTypes of KYC Verification ProcessesThere are two types of KYC verification processes, and both are equally authentic and effective.

If you have extra money, investing it in instruments that offer regular monthly income can be a great financial decision. This ensures that your idle funds generate steady returns and provide a consistent source of income. Key HighlightsOptions: Popular choices include POMIS, government bonds, corporate deposits, MIPs, and SWPs.Senior: SCSS and PMVVY offer stable income options for senior citizens.Returns: Income varies by investment, with some offering fixed payouts and others market-linked returns.Selection: Choose a plan based on risk tolerance, income needs, and financial goals.Post Office Monthly Income SchemePost Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS) is an investment offered by India Post.POMIS currently offers interest at 6.6% per annum, payable monthly.This scheme comes with a deposit tenure of five years.An individual can invest a maximum of Rs 4,50,000, and this limit is doubled to Rs 9,00,000 for joint accounts.You can start investing as low as Rs 1,500 in this scheme.Once the POMIS investment matures, the same can be reinvested for another set of five years.Government BondGovernment bonds are an excellent low-risk investment option for risk-averse investors. The duration of these bonds ranges from 5 years to 40 years. Government bonds pay regular interest, or offer coupon payments, as fixed by the Government of India.Government bonds come with a predefined maturity date.The main intention of issuing government bonds is to raise capital for government expenditure.Corporate DepositsMany non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) offer corporate deposits. These are similar to bank deposits, but the only difference is that you invest with a corporate entity, which is not as secure as a bank deposit.Corporate deposits offer a high interest rate and come with an added flexibility, which bank deposits don’t offer.Before making investments in corporate deposits, you must check for the financial strength and credibility of the NBFC.Monthly Income PlanMonthly income plans (MIPs) are mutual funds that invest mainly in fixed income and a small portion in equity and equity-related instruments.The fund houses pay out their investors with a steady income regularly.This amount is not fixed and depends on the performance of the fund.As the mutual fund performance drives the returns, it is not guaranteed.Also, there are possibilities of negative returns as well. Hence, before deciding to invest in a monthly income plan, you must consider your risk profile. Senior Citizen Savings SchemeSenior citizen savings scheme (SCSS) is only for senior citizens (above the age of 60 years) are eligible to invest in the scheme. To avail of this scheme at notified bank branches and post offices.Applicants must subscribe to the scheme within one month after retiring. You have SCSS offering an interest rate of 7.4% per year, payable quarterly.

PAN card verification is the process of confirming whether a PAN is valid, active and matches the records of the Income Tax Department. You can complete PAN card verification online to verify your PAN details, check your PAN card verification status or authenticate a PAN for official purposes.PAN Card Verification OverviewParticularsDetailsVerify UsingPAN details, Aadhaar or Name & Date of Birth (depending on the service)Verification PurposeConfirm PAN validity, authenticity and statusAvailable OnIncome Tax e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL and authorised verification servicesWho Can Verify?Individuals, businesses and authorised entities (depending on the verification service)Common UsesKYC, banking, tax compliance and financial transactionsWhat is PAN Card Verification?PAN verification is the process of authenticating a PAN card against the official Income Tax Department records. It confirms whether a PAN exists and if it is active. It ensures that details like the cardholder such as, name and date of birth, match government databases. PAN verifications are required to know whether the PAN card details are valid, deleted or deactivated. This verification will provide clarity on various aspects such as if the PAN card is fake or if it is missing from the income tax department’s database or not.Verify PAN Card Status Online using Name and DOBHere are the steps to verify your PAN card status online by using your name and date of birth (DOB):Step 1: Navigate to the Income Tax e-filing portal website.Step 2: Click on 'Verify PAN Status' under ‘Quick Links’ section.Step 3: Enter your PAN details, your name as in your PAN card, mobile number, and date of birth and then click on ‘Continue’.Step 4: Now you will receive an OTP in your registered mobile number, enter the same and click on the ‘Validate’ to proceed.Step 5: Once you are done with the verification process, your PAN card status will be displayed on your screen.PAN Verification by Aadhaar CardHere are the steps guiding you to complete the process of PAN verification by entering your Aadhaar details:Step 1: Navigate to the official Income Tax e-filing website.Step 2: Then click on the ‘Link Aadhaar’ option under the ‘Quick Links’ section.Step 3: Click on ‘Continue’ under ‘View Status’.Step 4: Here you will have to enter your PAN and Aadhaar number in the ‘Link Aadhaar Status’ section.Step 5: Now click on ‘Validate’ to check the verification status of your PAN card linked to your Aadhaar.How to Verify the PAN Card Issued by the Company?Follow these above-mentioned steps to verify the PAN card issued by the company: Step 1: Navigate to the UTIITSL website.Step 2: Enter the PAN number and date of incorporation.Step 3: Fill in the captcha and submit.Step 4: The status of your PAN verification will appear on your screen.Types of PAN Card VerificationThere are three main types of PAN card verification online process.Type of PAN VerificationHow It WorksVerification LimitTypical UsersFile-Based VerificationUpload a file containing multiple PAN records for bulk verification.Bulk verificationGovernment departments, banks and large organisationsScreen-Based VerificationEnter PAN details directly on the verification portal.Up to five PANs at a timeOrganisations with occasional verification needsAPI-Based VerificationConnect software or business applications with the PAN verification service for instant verification.Real-timeBanks, NBFCs, fintechs and other authorised entitiesEligibility for PAN VerificationThe online PAN verification facility is available to authorised entities that require PAN authentication for regulatory, KYC, tax compliance, or financial transactions.