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About this tool
Understand probation periods and service bonds before accepting a post, and calculate what leaving early would cost.
This explainer sets out what probation periods and service bonds commit a new government or bank recruit to, and includes a calculator that estimates the amount payable on leaving before the bond period ends — using the pro-rata formula (bond amount × months remaining ÷ bond period) or the full-recovery model, whichever your bond clause specifies. It is written for candidates weighing job offers or planning a switch, against the backdrop of the DoPT norm of 2 years' probation for central government direct recruits.
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Calculates full-amount and pro-rata bond liability, matching the two clause types actually used.
Plain-language notes on the 2-year central government norm, confirmation, and resigning during probation.
See the rupee cost of an early exit before you accept the post, not after.
The standard is 2 years for direct recruits to Group A, B and C posts, per DoPT's consolidated instructions on probation, and it can be extended if performance or conduct issues arise. Confirmation in the post follows successful completion of probation.
Usually yes — a service bond is a financial undertaking independent of probation, so resigning within the bond period triggers the recovery clause even if you are still a probationer. Check whether your clause is full-recovery or pro-rata, since the difference can be worth most of the bond amount.
Payable amount = bond amount × months remaining ÷ total bond period. For a Rs 2,00,000 bond over 36 months with 24 months served, that is 2,00,000 × 12 ÷ 36 ≈ Rs 66,667. Full-recovery clauses instead make the entire amount payable while any part of the period is unserved.
Often, yes — when you move to another government post applied for through proper channel with a technical resignation, bond recovery is commonly waived or the bond transferred, and past service can be protected for pay and pension. The waiver is not automatic; it depends on the bond terms and the accepting authority, so confirm in writing before resigning.