After facing significant customer backlash, ICICI Bank has rolled back its minimum balance requirements for new savings accounts. The bank announced that for accounts opened from August 1, 2025, the monthly average balance (MAB) for metro and urban areas will be ₹15,000, a major reduction from the previously proposed ₹50,000.
Key Changes to Minimum Balance Requirements
The bank revised its minimum balance rules across different regions, citing “valuable feedback” from its customers. The new requirements are as follows:
- Metro & Urban: The MAB is now ₹15,000.
- Semi-Urban: The MAB has been set at ₹7,500.
- Rural: The MAB is ₹2,500.
Who is Unaffected by the Changes?
The new requirements do not apply to all account holders. Several groups are exempt, including:
- Existing savings accounts opened before July 31, 2025.
- Senior citizens and pensioners over 60 years old.
- Customers with salary accounts, PMJDY accounts, or BSBDA accounts.
- Individuals with special needs.
Additionally, pensioners under 60 and students from 1,200 select institutions will continue to enjoy a zero MAB facility.
This reversal is seen as a direct response to public criticism that the initial increase was not inclusive and would disproportionately affect many customers.