Credit card EMI vs personal loan EMI in India: Which is a smarter option for debt management?

Borrowers are often confused about how to simplify their existing debt. Unexpected expenses, high-value purchases and credit card payments can be repaid either through a personal loan EMI or through credit card EMI.

Both options offer structured repayment, fixed instalments, and predictable costs. However, they are vastly different in terms of interest rates, documentation, flexibility and long-term impact on financial stability. In this article, we will compare both options to help you make an informed decision that is best aligned with your long-term financial goals. 

Comparison of credit card EMI and personal loan EMI

Listed below are seven crucial points of comparison to understand the differences between credit card EMI and personal loan EMI:

1) Interest rates: Typically, credit card EMI interest rates are higher compared to personal loan EMI. Credit card EMI rates can vary depending on the bank and card type. Personal loans, on the other hand, typically offer more consistent rates with more precise terms. Digital lenders and banks often provide competitive personal loan interest structures that reduce repayment burden over time.

2) Flexibility: A credit card EMI is best suited for converting a specific purchase into instalments. It applies only to card transactions or outstanding dues. A personal loan offers more flexibility because you can use the funds for multiple expenses of your choice. With an instant personal loan online option, you can use the borrowed amount for any financial need.

3) Documentation: Credit card EMIs require almost no document verification process since it is done during the time of card issuance. A personal loan EMI requires basic KYC verification and income proof. To make this process more effortless, IDFC FIRST Bank offers quick digital and paperless processing. Borrowers can apply through online portals, without any documents upload, and complete verification in minutes.

4) Tenure options: Credit card EMI tenures usually range from three months to eighteen months. Personal loans offer longer tenures, often between 9 months and 60 months, allowing borrowers to choose instalments that fit their monthly budget.

5) Credit utilisation impact: Converting credit card dues into EMIs is calculated as credit utilisation on your card. High credit utilisation can affect your credit score. A personal loan shifts the burden away from the card and spreads it over a fixed schedule, helping maintain healthier credit utilisation levels.

6) Foreclosure rules: Many credit card EMI structures do not allow foreclosure without a fee. Personal loans generally have clear foreclosure rules, and banks like IDFC FIRST Bank offer zero foreclosure charges on personal loans.

IDFC FIRST Bank benefits: IDFC FIRST Bank provides competitive advantages for borrowers considering a personal loan. These include a fully digital application process, zero foreclosure charges for eligible customers, and flexible repayment options supported by tools such as personal loan EMI calculator. These features can help borrowers plan repayments more effectively and manage debt effectively.

When to choose between credit card EMI and personal loan EMI?
 

Choosing between card EMI and personal loan EMI depends on your financial situation and repayment goals. Here are tips to help you decide which one to choose and when:

· Choose credit card EMI when:

o   When you want to convert a single purchase into instalments.

o   The EMI interest on a specific transaction is low or on offer.

o   Short-term borrowing, and you plan on a quick repayment.

· Choose a personal loan when:

o   You want to consolidate multiple debts.

o   You need a larger amount than a card limit allows.

o   You want longer repayment tenures.

o   You prefer predictable instalments.

o   You want to keep card utilisation low and avoid high APR (Annual Percentage Rate).

· Evaluating cost difference:

o   You can compare the total repayment amount using a personal loan EMI calculator. This helps you understand which option results in a lower cost in the long term. Even a small difference in interest rate or processing fee can significantly change the total repayment dues.

Apply for a personal loan with IDFC FIRST Bank
 

Anyone looking for a structured, flexible, and manageable repayment solution, can apply for a personal loan through IDFC FIRST Bank can help you sort your finances more effectively. The bank offers a fully digital application process, instant eligibility checks, and quick disbursal within 30 minutes.

Interest rates starting at 9.99% p.a., zero foreclosure charges, clear repayment plans which you can estimate using a personal loan EMI calculator, and flexible tenures from 9 months to 60 months make IDFC FIRST Bank a reliable option for borrowers who want to simplify debt repayment.