Received a Message from PNB About Minimum Balance Penalty Waiver? Here’s What It Means

If you're a Punjab National Bank (PNB) customer and recently received an SMS saying: "Dear Customer, penal charges for non-maintenance of avg balance has been waived w.e.f. 01.07.25 by our bank. Past dues if any, shall remain payable - Team PNB" you’re not alone. Here's a breakdown of what it means and how it may impact your account.

PNB Minimum Balance Penalty Removed?

As of July 1, 2025, PNB has waived penal charges related to non-maintenance of the Minimum Average Balance (MAB) in all savings accounts. This means you will no longer be charged a penalty if your account balance falls below the previously required average minimum.

The move is part of PNB’s broader push for financial inclusion and is expected to benefit segments like:

• Women
• Farmers
• Low-income households
• Rural and semi-urban customers

PNB Minimum Balance Fine Waiver: Are Old Dues Still Payable?

The SMS clearly states that the "Past dues if any, shall remain payable." This means while future penalties have been scrapped, any penalties already incurred before July 1, 2025 for not maintaining the required balance will still need to be paid.

PNB’s Previous Charges for Non-Maintenance of Minimum Balance

Prior to this waiver, Punjab National Bank (PNB) levied penalties for non-maintenance of the Minimum Average Balance (MAB) in savings accounts. The charges varied depending on both the type of savings account and the location where the account was opened i.e., rural, semi-urban, or urban/metro branches.

According to the bank’s official website, the penalty ranged from ₹10 to as high as ₹2,000, depending on the shortfall amount and category of the account. These charges were deducted periodically if the MAB requirements were not met by the account holder.

Do You Still Need to Maintain a Minimum Balance?

It is still good practice to maintain a balance in your account for:

• Smooth transaction processing
• ECS/EMI auto-debits
• Avoiding declined payments or bounced mandates

Read More: HDFC Bank vs ICICI Bank: A Quick Comparison of Q1FY26 Financial Performance.

Conclusion

If you’ve received the SMS from PNB, it’s good news you won’t be charged any more penalties for not meeting the minimum balance requirement in your savings account. However, do check your account for any pending dues from before July 1, 2025.

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