Compare Interest Rates
One of the
most important factor to consider before applying for a personal loan is the
annual interest rate %. The indicative rate of interest of the leading banks / financial institutions as on Feb 2020 are as follows.
| Financial Institution | Rate of Interest | Processing Fee (percentage of loan amount + GST) | Tenure | Maximum amount in ₹ |
|---|
| HDFC Bank | 10.75 – 21.50 % | Upto 2.50% | 1-5 years | 40 lakhs |
| ICICI Bank | 10.99 – 16.25% | 0.75% onwards (Min ₹999) | 1-5 years | 20 lakhs |
| Citibank | 10.50 – 17.99% | 0.50% – 3.00% One-time fee | 1 – 5 years | 30 lakhs |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | 10.50 – 16.99% | Up to 2.50% One-time fee | 1 – 5 years | 25 lakhs |
| Tata Capital | 11.25 – 14.49 % | Up to 2.50% One-time fee | 1 – 6 years | 20 lakhs |
| Aditya Birla Capital | 11.00 – 13.75 % | 1.00% One-time fee | 1 – 5 years | 30 lakhs |
| IDFC First Bank | 15.00 – 22.00 % | Up to 3.50% One-time fee | 1 – 5 years | 25 lakhs |
| SBI | 10.60 – 13.10% | Varies from 0.5 – 1.5 % | 1 – 7 years | 20 lakhs |
| Standard Chartered | 11.00 – 19.20% | 2.25 % for online application | 1 – 5 years | 30 lakhs |
| PNB | 8.95 – 11.80% | 1.8 % | 1 – 7 years | 10 lakhs |
| IndusInd | 11.00 – 16.75 % | Nil | 1 – 5 years | 25 lakhs |
Credit Score
The credit score of the applicant determines the creditworthiness and allows the lender to evaluate the application of the potential borrower. It is a reflection of the applicants’ credit history and how responsibly dealt with credit in the past.
A credit score of 750 and above is considered good enough. The credit score reflects the applicants’ credibility since it takes into account the timely repayment of EMIs, credit utilization, credit inquiries, and existing debt. A good credit score shows your lender that you are financially stable and responsible with credit.
However, the credit score is not the only criteria when it comes to qualifying for a loan and getting approval on the application. Factors such as salary, existing debt, employer, current residence etc. of the applicant also plays a role.
Refer Journey towards Higher Credit Score to know more on how to build a solid credit history?
What Reasons to consider?
Personal loans are traditionally opted for debt consolidation, home repairs, study loan, emergency and unforeseen medical expenses, vehicle refinancing and other personal purchases or even for a vacation. However, with the COVID-19 scenario, the reasons could vary to other emergency requirements and most of the leading Indian banks are offering COVID-19 personal loans.
The applicant can apply for a personal loan online through the bank's official website. Applying online is recommended since the process is fast, hassle-free and allows the applicant to maintain the social distancing norm laid down by the Government of India.
The interest rates offered will vary from bank to bank and hence it is recommended to compare various personal loans.
Backup Plan
It is important to introspect and create a contingency plan to tackle any financial crisis. One has to re-evaluate financial standing and capacity to service (pay-back) debts along with meeting necessary expenses. Investments could be redirected to liquid assets to avoid sudden cash crunch and the risk of being a financial defaulter along with curtailing unnecessary expenditure on luxury. Activities which can be deferred, personal loans should be avoided for the same.
Conclusion
The loan amount, credit score, income and overall creditworthiness of the applicant will impact the interest rate. The applicant should do his/her research and find competitive rates, avoid any hidden fees and estimate monthly payments. When you take a personal loan to pay off credit cards or to have a great wedding or exotic vacation, you are borrowing money that must be repaid with interest on top, so earlier you repay better for you.
Personal loans are a great way to consolidate debt, make major purchases or tackle a medical emergency or compelling situation but one should always utilize this financial resource responsibly to avoid getting into a debt trap.
