Navigating the world of personal loans can be a tricky affair. When understanding the terms and conditions of your loan, one ought to be extra careful.
One common question that borrowers often grapple with is whether they can extend the tenure of their loan.
This article explores why someone might want to extend their personal loan tenure, the eligibility criteria for doing so, the process involved, the pros and cons of extending your loan repayment period and more.
Keep reading.
Reasons to Extend Your Personal Loan Tenure
Life sometimes throws curveballs at us. Extending the tenure of your loan at less interest rate may seem like a viable option.
Here are some common reasons why borrowers might consider extending their personal loan tenure:
- Lowering Monthly EMIs:By extending the tenure, you can reduce the amount of your monthly equated monthly instalments (EMIs), easing the financial burden on your shoulders.
- Financial Hardships or Emergencies:Unexpected events, such as job loss or medical emergencies, can strain your finances, making it difficult to keep up with your loan repayments. Extending your loan tenure can provide some much-needed breathing room.
- Improved Credit Score Over Time:If your credit score, or CIBIL score, has improved since you first availed the loan, you may be eligible for a less-interest-rate personal loan. You can take advantage of this new-found financial strength by extending your tenure.
Eligibility Criteria for Extending Personal Loan Tenure
Before you can extend your personal loan tenure, there are certain eligibility criteria that you must meet.
Some of these factors include:
- Good Repayment History:Lenders will typically look at your past repayment behaviour to determine if you are a reliable borrower. If you have consistently made timely repayments, you are more likely to be considered for a loan extension.
- Positive Credit Score:A healthy CIBIL score is vital for demonstrating your creditworthiness. A high score can increase your chances of being approved for a personal loan tenureextension.
- Stable Employment and Income: Lenders want assurance that you have a regular source of income to repay the loan. It will work in your favour if you have been in stable employment for a considerable period.
The Process of Extending Personal Loan Tenure
If you meet the personal finance checklist and decide to proceed with extending your loan tenure, follow these steps:
- Contacting Your Lender:Contact your lender and inquire about their specific process for extending loan tenures. Different lenders may have different policies and procedures in place.
- Documentation Requirements:Be prepared to provide any necessary documentation, such as updated income statements or proof of employment. Your lender will inform you of the specific documents required.
- Loan Restructuring Process:Once your lender has assessed your eligibility and documentation, they may offer you a restructured loan plan with an extended tenure. Review the new terms carefully before agreeing to the extension.
Pros and Cons of Extending Personal Loan Tenure
Before making a decision, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of extending your personal loan tenure:
Pros:
- Reduced Monthly EMIs: Extending your loan tenure means lower monthly EMIs, which can ease your financial burden and free up cash for other expenses.
- Lesser Financial Burden: With a longer repayment period, you may find it easier to manage your finances and avoid defaulting on your loan.
Cons:
- Longer Repayment Period:On the flip side, extending your loan tenure means you’ll be in debt for a more extended period, which may not be ideal for those looking to become debt-free as soon as possible.
- Increased Overall Interest Payment:Although your monthly EMIs will be lower, you will pay more in interest over the life of the loan due to the extended tenure.
Alternatives to Extending Personal Loan Tenure
If you are hesitant about extending your loan tenure, consider these alternative options to ease your financial burden:
- Refinancing Your Loan:You could explore refinancing your loan with a different lender offering a personal loan at alesser interest, a move that can save you money on interest payments and shorten your loan term.
- Debt Consolidation:If you have multiple loans or credit card debts, consolidating them into one loan with a lower interest rate can make it easier to manage your repayments and save on interest costs.
- Negotiating with Your Lender for Better Terms:Sometimes, having an open conversation with your lender about your financial situation can lead to better loan terms, such as reduced interest rates or a temporary reduction in EMIs.
Tips to Manage Personal Loan Repayments Effectively
To stay on top of your personal loan repayments and avoid the need for extending your loan tenure, consider these tips:
- Creating a Budget:Develop a monthly budget for your income, expenses, and debt repayments to ensure you have enough funds allocated for your loan EMIs.
- Prioritising Debt Repayment:Focus on paying off high-interest debt first while making minimum payments on other debts. This strategy can save you money in the long run and help you become debt-free sooner.
- Building an Emergency Fund: Establishing a financial safety net can prevent you from relying on loans during emergencies. Aim to save at least three to six months’ living expenses in a separate savings account.
Conclusion
Extending the tenure of your loan is a viable option for those facing financial hardships or looking to reduce their monthly EMIs. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Also, it would be better if you check your CIBIL with OneScore before opting for a loan. You can consider alternative solutions like refinancing, debt consolidation, or negotiating with your lender for better terms.
Good luck!
