Gold and Indian Tradition
In India, gold is not just jewelry — it’s a symbol of security, tradition, and prosperity. Almost every household owns some gold, either in ornaments, coins, or bars. But storing gold safely remains a concern, and that’s why many people prefer bank lockers for protection.
How Much Gold Can You Keep at Home?
As per income-tax guidelines, there are certain limits for gold that can be kept at home:
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Married women: Up to 500 grams
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Unmarried women: Up to 250 grams
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Men: Up to 100 grams
If you possess more gold than this and have valid proof of purchase (bills or receipts), the Income Tax Department will not question you. These limits are only for reference in case of inspections.
Gold Limit in Bank Lockers
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not set any upper limit for keeping gold in bank lockers.
You can store as much gold as you want, depending on your need and the size or policy of the bank locker. It is completely your personal decision and depends on the locker agreement between you and the bank.
RBI Rules Regarding Bank Lockers
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Banks cannot ask what you keep inside your locker.
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They can only interfere if it is proven that the locker contains any illegal or prohibited item.
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The bank is responsible for maintaining the security and privacy of your locker.
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If the contents of a locker are lost or damaged due to the bank’s negligence, the bank must compensate the customer.
Other Important Conditions of Bank Lockers
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Banks charge an annual locker rent, which varies depending on branch and locker size.
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Customers must sign a Locker Agreement before use.
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The locker can be operated only by the registered holder or authorized nominee.
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Banks may periodically inspect the locker status to ensure compliance.
