What Is a Short term personal loan?

In today's uncertain economic climate, many individuals may find themselves in need of quick and easy access to funds. Whether it's for an unexpected expense, an emergency, or a temporary financial gap, short personal loans can provide a solution to these challenges. These loans are unsecured loans that offer a quick and convenient way to access funds needed to cover expenses and manage finances. With benefits such as fast approval and funding, no collateral requirement, and flexible repayment options, these loans can be a valuable tool for individuals in need of financial support. Let's explore!

A small personal loan is a type of unsecured loan that provides individuals with access to a relatively small amount of money that can be used for a variety of individual expenses. The loan amount is typically smaller than other types of loans, ranging from a few thousand to a few lakhs, and is often paid back over a small period, usually within a year or two.

Benefits of short-term loans

Quick access to cash
These loans are processed quickly, so borrowers can receive funds within days or hours of applying.
No collateral is required
These are often unsecured, so collateral such as a house or car is not required to secure the loan
Improved credit
Making timely payments on such loans can improve a borrower's credit score, making it easier to qualify for other loans in the future.
Lower interest rates
These loans typically have lower interest rates than long-term loans, which can save borrowers money on interest charges.
Greater control over finances
Small loans offer quicker repayment periods, allowing borrowers to regain control over their finances sooner than with long-term loans.

Why is short personal loan used for?

Short personal loans are often utilized for short-term funding needs that arise unexpectedly. This type of loan is typically taken out for a small period of time, ranging from 3 to 18 months, and is commonly used to cover emergency expenses such as medical bills, home repairs, and other emergency costs. Since they are unsecured, there is no requirement for collateral such as a car or home. This can make them a more convenient option for borrowers who do not have assets to secure a loan

How small personal loan helps in times of needs

This type of loan can be a lifeline for customers in need of quick cash. These loans offer a flexible and convenient way to access funds, with minimal requirements and potentially fast approval and funding. It can help customers build their credit score by making timely repayments. Overall, this loan can be an effective for managing financial challenges and achieving greater financial stability.

Types of Short Personal Loans

Payday loans
These are the loans that are designed to be repaid on the borrower's next payday. They are often used to cover unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Installment loans
These are loans that are repaid over a set period, typically in equal installments. They can be used for a wide range of purposes and are often more flexible than payday loans.
Cash advances
These loans are issued against a borrower's credit card. They can be convenient for borrowers who need quick access to cash but often have high interest rates.
Personal lines of credit
These are revolving credit lines that allow borrowers to draw on a predetermined amount of funds as needed and are more flexible than other types of loans

A line of credit is a great alternative to other types of loans for a variety of reasons. Unlike a traditional loan, a line of credit provides more flexibility since the borrower can draw on the funds as needed, up to a predetermined limit. Furthermore, the interest rate on a line of credit tends to be lower than other types of loans, meaning the borrower will pay less in interest over the life of the loan. Lastly, the borrower may be able to pay off the loan early without any penalties, allowing them to save money in the long run. All these advantages make a line of credit a better option than other types of loans.

How to Qualify for a Small Loan

    Qualifying for a small loan typically depends on several factors such as your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of qualifying for a small loan:

  1. Credit Score:
    Your credit score is calculated using information from your credit report, which includes details about your credit accounts, payment history, and other financial behavior.  A score of 750 or above is considered good and is necessary to qualify for most types of loans and other financial products. The credit score requirements for such loan can vary depending on the lender and the type of loan. Generally, short-term loans may be available to borrowers with lower credit scores than traditional bank loans. However, borrowers with higher credit scores may be able to secure lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms.
  2. Income and Employment:
    Income and employment are two important factors that lenders consider when determining a borrower's eligibility for a loan. Lenders want to ensure that borrowers have a reliable source of income and are likely to be able to make timely payments on the loan. Generally, borrowers with a steady income and a stable employment history are viewed as less risky and more likely to be approved for a loan. On the other hand, borrowers with a low or unstable income, frequent job changes, or gaps in employment may have a harder time qualifying for a loan or may be offered less favorable loan terms. To prove income and employment, lenders typically require certain documents, such as:
    • Pay stubs: These documents show your earnings for a certain period, such as a week or a month, and may also show deductions for taxes and other expenses.
    • W-2 forms: These forms show your total earnings and taxes paid for the year and are typically provided by your employer.
    • Tax returns: If you are self-employed or have other sources of income, you may be asked to provide your tax returns for the past year or two.
    • Bank statements: Lenders may ask for your bank statements to verify your income and expenses and to ensure that you have sufficient funds to repay the loan.
    • Employment verification: Some lenders may contact your employer to verify your employment status and income.
  3. Debt-to-income ratio?
    The debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is a financial metric used to measure the amount of debt an individual has compared to their income. In India, the DTI ratio is calculated by dividing the total monthly debt obligations of an individual, such as loan EMIs, credit card bills, and other debt repayments, by their monthly income before tax deductions. In India, the DTI ratio is an important factor that affects a borrower's eligibility for a loan. Lenders use the DTI ratio to assess the borrower's ability to repay the loan. Generally, a lower DTI ratio indicates that the borrower has a lower amount of debt relative to their income, which suggests that they may be more capable of repaying the loan. Most lenders in India have a maximum DTI ratio of 50% to 60%, which means that if a borrower's DTI ratio is higher than this limit, they may be considered a higher-risk borrower and may face difficulties getting approved for a loan. Lenders may also offer higher interest rates or lower loan amounts for borrowers with higher DTI ratios. It's important for borrowers to maintain a healthy DTI ratio to increase their chances of getting approved for a loan and to avoid overburdening themselves with debt.

How to calculate the debt-to-income ratio

To calculate the debt-to-income ratio in India, you need to follow these steps:

  • Determine your total monthly debt payments. This includes any credit card payments, personal loan payments, car loan payments, home loan payments, or any other debt payments you make each month.
  • Calculate your gross monthly income. This is your income before taxes and other deductions are taken out. Include all sources of income, such as your salary, bonuses, commissions, and any rental income.
  • Divide your total monthly debt payments by your gross monthly income. This will give you your debt-to-income ratio. For example, if you're total monthly debt payments are Rs. 20,000 and your gross monthly income is Rs. 60,000, your debt-to-income ratio would be 33.33%.
  • The ideal debt-to-income ratio in India varies depending on the lender and the type of loan you're applying for. However, a general rule of thumb is that your debt-to-income ratio should be below 50% to qualify for most loans. It's always a good idea to check with the lender for their specific requirements.

Finding and Applying for Short-Term Personal Loans in India

This type of loans can be found from a variety of sources in India, including banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), and online lenders. Some popular options for such personal loans in India include:>

Banks
Most major banks in India offer this type of personal loans, which can be applied for online or in-person at a branch.
NBFCs
The digital transformation of the financial sector has played a significant role in the growth of NBFCs. The adoption of digital technologies enables these companies to offer more efficient and convenient financial products and services. They focus on niche areas such as microfinance, affordable housing finance, and vehicle finance, where they have a competitive advantage over traditional banks.
Online Lenders
The adoption of digital payment systems and the increased use of smartphones have made it easier for borrowers to access online lenders, and for online lenders to disburse loans quickly. They also offer innovative products such as instant loans, peer-to-peer lending, and invoice financing, tailored to specific customer segments' needs.

The application process:

Research lenders
Start by researching different lenders who offer short personal loans. Consider factors such as interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and eligibility requirements.
Check your credit score
Before applying for a loan, check your credit score to see if you are likely to be approved. You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the major credit reporting agencies.
Gather necessary documents
You will typically need to provide your information (such as your name, address, and social security number), proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns), and information about any debts you currently owe.
Fill out the application
Once you have chosen a lender, you will need to fill out an application. This may be done online, by phone, or in person at a branch.
Wait for approval
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the lender to review it and decide whether to approve you for a loan. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the lender's policies and procedures.
Receive funds
If you are approved for the loan, the lender will typically deposit the funds directly into your bank account. You can then use the money for whatever purposes you need.
Repay the loan
You will be responsible for repaying the loan according to the terms you agreed to when you applied. This typically involves making regular payments over a set period.

What information is needed to apply for a loan?

To apply for a short personal loan in India, you will typically need to provide the following information:

  • Individual information: Name, address, contact information, etc.
  • Employment information: Employer name and address, monthly income, etc.
  • Financial information: Bank account details, other loans and debts, etc.

How to fill out an application:

The application process will vary depending on the lender. Some lenders offer online applications, which can be completed from the comfort of your own home. Others may require you to visit a branch in person to apply. Regardless of the application method, be sure to provide accurate and complete information to increase your chances of approval.

Approval and funding:

  • Submit your application: Once you have filled out your application with a lender, you will need to submit it for review.
  • Wait for approval: The lender will typically review your application to determine whether you meet their eligibility requirements, such as credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the lender's policies and procedures.
  • Sign the loan agreement: If you are approved for the loan, the lender will provide you with a loan agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the loan. You will need to carefully review and sign this agreement to proceed.
  • Receive funds: Once you have signed the loan agreement, the lender will typically deposit the funds directly into your bank account. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the lender and your bank's policies.
  • Repay the loan: You will be responsible for repaying the loan according to the terms you agreed to in the loan agreement. This typically involves making regular payments over a set period. It's important to make your payments on time and in full to avoid late fees and other penalties.

How long it takes to get approved for a loan:

The time it takes to get approved for a short loan in India will depend on the lender and the complexity of your application. In some cases, you may be approved within a few hours or days. In other cases, it may take several days or even weeks.

  • How loans are funded:

    Once you are approved for this loan in India, the lender will typically transfer the funds directly to your bank account. The time it takes for the funds to be disbursed will depend on the lender, but it is typically within a few days of approval.

Things to check before taking a small personal loan

Interest Rates:

One of the most important things to check before taking out a small loan is the interest rate. Different lenders may offer different interest rates, and even a small difference in interest rates can add up over time and make a big difference in the total cost of the loan. Be sure to compare interest rates from multiple lenders and choose the one that offers the lowest rate.

Fees:

In addition to interest rates, it's also important to check for any additional fees associated with the loan. These may include processing fees, prepayment penalties, and late payment fees. Make sure you understand all the fees associated with the loan before signing any agreements.

Repayment Terms:

Before taking a small loan, it's important to carefully review the repayment terms. This includes the length of the loan, the frequency of payments, and the total amount of interest paid over the life of the loan. Make sure you can comfortably afford the monthly payments and understand the total cost of the loan.
Ultimately, it's important to carefully consider all your options and choose the one that is best suited to your specific financial situation

Benefits of Short-Term Personal Loans:

  • Fast approval and funding: Small loans typically have a simpler application process, which can result in faster approval and funding. This can be particularly helpful if you need money quickly for an unexpected expense.
  • No collateral required: These loans are usually unsecured, which means that you don't have to put up any collateral, such as a house or car, to secure the loan.
  • Flexible repayment options: This type of loan may offer more flexible repayment options than other types of loans, such as longer or shorter repayment periods and variable or fixed interest rates.
  • Can be used for any purpose: It can be used for any purpose, from paying off medical bills to funding a home renovation project.
  • Helps build credit score: Making timely payments on such loans can help build your credit score, which can make it easier to qualify for other types of loans and credit in the future.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible for this loan, you may need to meet certain requirements, such as:

Age requirement You must be at least 21 old
Proof of income You may need to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or bank statements
Bank account information You may need to provide your bank account information
Credit score requirements Some lenders may require a minimum credit score to qualify
Other documentation is needed you may need to provide other documentation, such as identification or proof of address. (Aadhar, PAN card, electricity bill, etc.)

How to Apply for Short-Term Personal Loans

Applying for a small loan is usually a quick and easy process that can be completed online. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Find a lender: Research and compare lenders that offer short-term personal loans. Check their interest rates, fees, and eligibility requirements to find the one that best meets your needs.
  • Fill out the application: Once you've chosen a lender, fill out their online application form. You'll need to provide individual and financial information, such as your name, address, income, employment status, and bank account details.
  • Provide documentation: Depending on the lender, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of income or identification.
  • Wait for approval: The lender will review your application and determine whether you're eligible for a loan. This process usually takes only a few minutes, but it can take longer if the lender needs to verify your information.
  • Accept the loan terms: If you're approved for a loan, the lender will send you the loan agreement to review and sign. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including the interest rate, repayment period, and any fees associated with the loan.
  • Receive funding: Once you've signed the loan agreement, the lender will deposit the loan funds directly into your bank account. This process usually takes one to two business days, depending on your bank.

Repayment Terms

Overall, the application process is usually quick and easy, and you can often receive approval and funding within a few days. However, it's important to carefully review the loan terms and make sure you can afford the repayments before accepting the loan.

Repayment terms vary depending on the lender, but here are some common elements to be aware of:

When payments are due: Typically, payments are due every month, with the exact due date determined by the lender. Some lenders may allow you to choose your payment date, while others may require automatic payments from your bank account.

How to make payments: You can usually make payments online or by phone, using a debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. Some lenders may also accept checks or money orders.

What happens if payments are missed?

If you miss a payment, the lender may charge a late fee and report the delinquency to the credit bureaus, which can negatively impact your credit score. If you continue to miss payments, the lender may take legal action to recover the debt or send it to a collection agency.

Early repayment options: Some lenders allow you to repay the loan early without penalty. This can be a good option if you're able to pay off the loan sooner than expected and want to save money on interest charges.

It's important to understand the repayment terms before accepting a short-term personal loan, including the interest rate, fees, and due dates for payments. Make sure you have a plan in place for making payments on time to avoid late fees and negative impacts on your credit score. If you're struggling to make payments, reach out to your lender to see if they offer any options.

If you're in need of funds for an unexpected expense or to bridge a financial gap, consider applying for a short-term personal loan with FlexPay credit line. With our easy online application process and fast approval and funding, you can get the funds you need quickly and conveniently. Plus, our flexible repayment options can help you manage your finances and build your credit score. Don't wait; apply for a loan with FlexPay today and get the financial support you need!

FAQs

A short loan is a type of unsecured loan that can provide quick funding for a variety of purposes. Some benefits include fast approval and funding, no collateral requirement, flexible repayment options, and the ability to use the loan for any purpose. Eligibility requirements typically include proof of income, bank account information, credit score requirements, and other documentation needed.

Individuals who need quick access to funds for unexpected expenses, emergencies, or to bridge a financial gap may benefit from a short loan.

The minimum salary required for a small loan may vary depending on the lender and loan amount. It's important to check with the lender for their specific eligibility requirements. FlexPay offers credit to individuals with a salary of Rs. 4,000.

Some lenders, like FlexPay, offer small loans for individuals with a salary less than Rs. 15,000. However, eligibility requirements may vary for different lenders, and it's important to check with the lender for their specific requirements.

Some lenders may offer small loans without a salary slip, but eligibility requirements may vary, and it's important to check with the lender for their specific requirements.

Eligibility criteria for a small personal loan may include age requirements, proof of income, bank account information, credit score requirements, and other documentation needed. It's important to check with the lender for their specific eligibility requirements.

Yes, many lenders offer the option to apply for a small loan online for convenience and ease of access.

Features of a short-term loan or small amount loan may include fast approval and funding, no collateral requirement, flexible repayment options, and the ability to use the loan for any purpose.

FlexPay scan and pay offers a variety of benefits for small loans, including an easy online application process, fast approval and funding, flexible repayment options, and no hidden fees. You can pay anytime and anywhere in India. Additionally, this app provides excellent customer service to help guide you through the loan process and ensure that you have the support you need.