Monday, 28 July 2025

Loans & EMI Guide #20: Personal Loan vs Credit Card — What’s Better?

 


Should You Use a Personal Loan or Credit Card for Urgent Needs?

You're stuck with an emergency expense. What should you use — a credit card or a personal loan? The answer isn’t always simple.


1. When to Use a Personal Loan

  • Amount needed is ₹50,000 or more
  • You need a fixed repayment period (6–36 months)
  • You want lower interest than credit cards
  • You’re okay waiting 24–48 hours for approval

2. When to Use a Credit Card

  • You need instant money
  • You can repay within 30–45 days
  • The amount is small (under ₹20,000)
  • You're getting a 0% EMI or cashback deal

3. Interest Rate Comparison

  • Credit Card: 30–45% per annum
  • Personal Loan: 10–18% per annum

So, if you can’t repay quickly, a personal loan is often cheaper in the long run.


4. Credit Score Impact

  • Both affect your CIBIL
  • Missed credit card payments damage your score more
  • Personal loans are more structured — easier to manage

Conclusion

Credit cards = fast but risky. Personal loans = slower but safer. Choose based on your repayment ability, not just convenience.


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