Key Factors That Help You Secure Personal Loans at Lower Interest Rates
Interest rates are determined by lenders based on funding costs and the borrower’s creditworthiness. Below are the major factors that influence personal loan interest rates:
Credit Score
A strong credit score reflects disciplined financial behavior such as timely EMI and credit card payments, limited loan applications, and maintaining a healthy credit utilization ratio.
Income / Salary
Higher income indicates stronger repayment capacity, reducing lender risk. As a result, borrowers with higher earnings often receive better interest rates. However, multiple ongoing EMIs may impact pricing.
Repayment Track Record
Applicants with a consistent and positive repayment history are considered low-risk borrowers and are more likely to qualify for loans at reduced interest rates.
Employment Profile
Stable employment with government bodies, PSUs, reputed MNCs, or established private organizations often results in lower interest rates due to assured income continuity and job stability.
There are two primary types of personal loan interest rates:
1. Reducing or Variable Interest Rate
A reducing or variable interest rate changes periodically and is linked to adjustments in the Reserve Bank of India’s repo rate. This type of interest is calculated on the outstanding loan balance and may vary over time.
2. Fixed or Flat Interest Rate
Under this structure, the interest rate is fixed on the total loan amount and remains unchanged for the entire loan tenure. The rate is set by the lender based on projected market conditions during the loan period.
