
If you are planning to open a savings account or already have one, understanding the ICICI Bank minimum balance for savings account is very important. Maintaining the required balance helps you avoid penalty charges and manage your finances smoothly.
In this detailed guide, we explain the latest minimum balance requirements, penalties, exemptions, and zero-balance options available at ICICI Bank.
What is the Minimum Balance in ICICI Bank Savings Account?
ICICI Bank requires customers to maintain a Monthly Average Balance (MAB). This means the average of your daily closing balance over a month must meet the required limit.
Minimum Monthly Average Balance (MAB)
| Location Type | Minimum Balance Required |
|---|---|
| Metro & Urban Areas | ₹15,000 |
| Semi-Urban Areas | ₹7,500 |
| Rural Areas | ₹2,500 |
These limits apply to regular savings accounts.
The balance requirement is calculated as Monthly Average Balance (not daily minimum).
What is Monthly Average Balance (MAB)?
Monthly Average Balance means:MAB=Number of Days in MonthSum of Daily Closing Balances
For example:
- If you maintain ₹15,000 most days but fall below occasionally, your monthly average must still remain ₹15,000 (for metro/urban areas).
Charges for Non-Maintenance of Minimum Balance
If you fail to maintain the required balance, ICICI Bank may charge a penalty based on the shortfall amount.
Generally:
- Charges depend on the percentage of shortfall.
- GST is applicable on penalty charges.
- The penalty is deducted automatically from your account.
Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor your account balance through mobile banking or net banking.
Zero Balance Savings Account in ICICI Bank
If you do not want to maintain a minimum balance, you can opt for:
Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA)
- Zero minimum balance
- Limited free transactions per month
- Ideal for basic banking needs
Salary Account
- Zero balance requirement
- Must be linked to your employer for salary credit
Who is Exempt from Minimum Balance?
Certain categories may receive relaxation:
- Students (under specific account types)
- Senior citizens (in select schemes)
- Pensioners
- Salary account holders
It is always recommended to confirm with your branch or check official terms before opening the account.
Types of ICICI Savings Accounts
ICICI Bank offers multiple savings account variants:
- Regular Savings Account
- Insta Save Account
- Salary Account
- Young Stars Account (for minors)
- Senior Citizen Account
- Basic Savings Account (Zero Balance)
Each account type may have different eligibility criteria and benefits.
How to Avoid Minimum Balance Charges?
Here are simple tips:
- Maintain required MAB consistently
- Link account with fixed deposit (Auto Sweep facility)
- Choose a zero-balance salary account if eligible
- Track balance via iMobile app
- Set balance alerts
Understanding the ICICI Bank minimum balance for savings account helps you avoid unnecessary penalties and manage your banking efficiently. While regular savings accounts require maintaining a Monthly Average Balance, zero-balance options are also available for eligible customers.
Before opening an account, always check the latest terms and charges from the official bank website or nearest branch, as policies may change over time.
The minimum Monthly Average Balance (MAB) is ₹15,000 for metro/urban areas, ₹7,500 for semi-urban areas, and ₹2,500 for rural areas.
If you fail to maintain the required balance, ICICI Bank may charge a penalty based on the shortfall amount. GST is applicable on these charges.
Yes, ICICI Bank offers a Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA) and salary accounts that do not require maintaining a minimum balance.
MAB is calculated by dividing the total of daily closing balances in a month by the number of days in that month.
Students, salary account holders, and certain special account categories may be exempt from maintaining minimum balance requirements.
Reference :ICICI Bank Savings Account FAQs – Eligibility, Balance & Charges

Rajil M P is a seasoned banking professional with over eight years of experience in the Indian banking sector. He has successfully completed the JAIIB and CAIIB examinations conducted by the Indian Institute of Banking & Finance (IIBF), reflecting his strong academic foundation and practical expertise in banking, finance, and risk management. He is the founder and editor of IndianBanker.com, a trusted platform focused on banking news, exam preparation, financial updates, and practical tools for banking aspirants, professionals, and informed readers. Drawing from real-world banking experience, Rajil simplifies complex topics such as interest rates, loans, deposits, RBI policies, and government schemes, making them easy to understand and apply.
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