Post Office Savings Account (POSA) holders get personalised cheque books: Key details on charges and features

According to SB Order No. 05/2026 issued by the Ministry of Communications, the new cheque books will come with pre-printed customer details such as the account holder’s name, account number and IFSC code of the Department of Posts.

The facility has become effective from May 8, 2026.

What changes for post office savings account holders?

Until now, cheque books issued by India Post did not carry personalised account details. Under the newly launched system, customers can now opt for cheque books with their information already printed on them, similar to commercial bank cheque books.

Who can apply for the personalised cheque book?

The facility is available for all Post Office Savings Account holders.

In the initial phase, customers will have to visit their post office branch physically to request a personalised cheque book. The Department has clarified that this service will later be extended to Internet Banking and Mobile Banking platforms as well.

Instant cheque books will continue

The Department of Posts has not discontinued instant cheque books.

• Instant Cheque Book

• Personalised Cheque Book

However, the process for both will now differ.

While instant cheque books will continue to be issued only at post office counters, personalised cheque books will be printed separately and delivered directly to the customer’s registered address through Speed Post.

What details will be printed on the cheque book?

• Account holder’s name

• Savings account number

• India Post IFSC code

For joint accounts, the cheque book will be dispatched to the address of the primary account holder.

Charges and cheque limits explained

According to the circular, customers will initially receive a cheque book containing 10 cheque leaves by default.

The Department has also clarified the fee structure:

• Up to 10 cheque leaves in a calendar year: No additional issuance charge.

• Beyond 10 cheque leaves: ₹2 per cheque leaf plus applicable GST

The charges, if applicable, will be automatically debited from the savings account.

Conditions customers must meet

India Post has laid down several conditions before a personalised cheque book request can be approved.

• Mobile number is linked with the primary CIF

• Minimum account balance of ₹500 is maintained

• KYC details and address are updated properly

• Account is active and not frozen or dormant

The Department has specifically advised customers to update their address before applying, since the cheque book will be sent to the latest address available in the records.