Personal Loan: Overview

A personal loan is an unsecured loan provided by banks, NBFCs, or other financial institutions to individuals to meet personal financial needs—such as medical emergencies, travel, wedding expenses, education, home renovation, or debt consolidation. Since it's unsecured, no collateral is required.

Advantages of a Personal Loan

  1. No Collateral Required
    You don’t need to pledge any asset or property.

  2. Flexible End Use
    Funds can be used for any personal purpose without restrictions.

  3. Quick Approval & Disbursal
    Many lenders offer same-day approval and instant disbursal, especially for pre-approved customers.

  4. Minimal Documentation
    Simple paperwork and easy application process.

  5. Flexible Repayment Tenure
    Tenure ranges from 12 to 60 months, depending on the lender.

  6. Improve Credit Score
    Regular and timely repayment helps build or improve your credit history.

Eligibility Criteria for a Personal Loan

(Note: Criteria may vary from lender to lender)

  1. Age

  2. 21 to 65 years (self-employed)

  3. 21 to 60 years (salaried)

  4. Employment Status

  5. Self-employed professionals or business owners

  6. Salaried individuals working in government, public or private sectors

  7. Income Requirement

  8. Minimum monthly income (usually ₹15,000–₹25,000 or more)

  9. Income stability is key

  10. Work Experience/Business Vintage

  11. Self-employed: Business operational for 2–3 years

  12. Salaried: At least 1–2 years of total work experience

  13. Credit Score

  14. A CIBIL score of 700 or above is usually preferred for approval and better interest rates.

Documents Required for a Personal Loan

1. Identity Proof (any one)

PAN Card (mandatory)

Aadhar Card

Passport

Voter ID

Driving License

2. Address Proof (any one)

Aadhar Card

Utility bill (electricity/water)

Passport

Rent agreement

3. Income Proof

For Salaried Individuals:

Latest 3–6 months’ salary slips

Form 16 or ITR

Bank statements (last 6 months)

For Self-Employed Individuals:

ITRs of last 2–3 years

Business income documents (Profit & Loss Statement, Balance Sheet)

Bank statements (6–12 months)

4. Other Documents

Loan application form (duly filled and signed)

Passport-size photographs

Employment certificate or appointment letter (sometimes required)