Personal Loan

Choosing the Right Loan for You: Personal Loans Vs Top-up Loans

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17/1/25 8:53 AM  |
17 Jan 2025 |3 Minutes
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Managing financial needs can become easier when you choose the right borrowing option. Personal Loan and Top-Up Loan are two types of loans that both offer immediate funds with no security required. However, they vary in terms of intent, eligibility, cost, and usage.

Knowing the differences between a Personal Loan and vs. Top-Up loan allows you to select the right option based on your financial requirements. This guide breaks down both loan types to help you make an informed decision.

What Are Personal Loans?

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A Personal Loan is an unsecured loan that can be used for various purposes, such as travel, weddings, medical bills, and more, providing you with extra money. First, lenders will examine your credit score, income, and ability to repay before approving your loan.

You can apply for a new Personal Loan online with ease and convenience. You just need to upload KYC documents, address proof, income proof, and other essential documents to expedite loan disbursal.

Also Read: Caution: Personal Loan Terms You Must Understand

What are Top-up Loans?

A Top-up Loan provides additional funds over your existing Personal Loan, Home Loan, Car Loan, or other loans. Several financial institutions offer a top-up facility to existing borrowers who maintain a good repayment record. A Top-up Loan can be secured or unsecured, depending on the original loan type.

For example, a home loan top-up has typically lower interest rates than a new Personal Loan because it is connected to a secured loan.

Most lenders require you to make timely EMI payments on your existing loan before providing you with a pre-approved loan offer. Approval for these loans is quicker because the existing lender is already familiar with your loan profile, and processing costs are often lower.

Personal Loan vs Top-up Loan: Key Differences

To determine which option is right for you, it's important to understand the key differences between a Top-Up Loan and a Personal Loan.

Factors

Personal Loan

Top-up Loan

Eligibility

Available to new customers who can meet the lender's eligibility criteria.

Only for existing borrowers with a good repayment history.

Loan Source

This facility can be accessed through any financial institution that offers unsecured loans.

Only available from the lender who provided your existing loan, unless you choose to do a balance transfer.

Interest Rates

Comparatively higher, depending on the credit profile and lender guidelines.

Comparatively lower, as lenders consider your repayment record and existing relationship.

Loan Repayment Tenure

Flexible tenures typically of up to 7 years.

Usually tied to the remaining tenure of the existing loan.

Processing Fees

These will be calculated in accordance with the lender's policies and the loan amount.

Usually, lower since the borrower’s documents are already verified.

Loan Amount

A Personal Loan can reach the lender's maximum limit, depending on the borrower's income and credit score.

Not always a fixed percentage of the existing loan amount. Determined by income, repayment history, outstanding balance, and lender policies.

Approval Time

Background verification and credit score evaluation may take time.

Faster approval because the lender already has your verified information.

Use of Funds

Can be used for multiple personal or professional purposes.

Best for covering expenses related to the existing loan.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Let's understand which loan option is best for you by looking at the following points:

Select a Fresh Personal Loan if:

  • You need funds for new or unrelated expenses, such as travel, education, or medical needs.

  • You want instant approval without holding an existing loan.

  • You prefer choosing flexible repayment options.

Choose a Top-up Loan if:

  • You already have a loan and need extra funds.

  • You prefer lower processing fees and quicker approval.

  • You have a strong repayment history with your current lender.

Also Read: A Quick Guide to Personal Loan Eligibility Assessment

To Conclude

A Personal Loan can help you cover new costs with convenient terms. In contrast, a Top-up Loan covers ongoing requirements related to your current loan, often at affordable interest rates. If you want lower processing fees, instant approval, and additional funds, a Top-up Loan from your current lender is the best option. For broader financial needs, apply for a new Personal Loan when you require more flexibility.

To simplify the process, explore the Poonawalla Fincorp Personal Loan. Enjoy benefits such as maximum loan amount, competitive interest rates, easy monthly payments, minimal documentation, and quick disbursement, helping you access funds with confidence.

FAQs

What if I close the existing loan before repaying the Top-up Loan?

Most lenders will demand that you close the linked Top-up Loan if you foreclose on your current loan. Many lenders treat the top-up facility and the original loan as related liabilities. Also, they expect that these loans will be settled jointly when the primary loan is closed.

Are Top-up Loans available on Business Loans or only on Home Loans?

Top-Up Loans are not limited to home loans. Many lenders provide them on Business Loans, Car Loans, or even on existing Personal Loans, depending on lender policies and your repayment history.

Does availing a Top-Up Loan change my EMI date or loan terms?

In most cases, the EMI date remains the same as your existing loan's EMI date, ensuring consistent repayments. However, your total loan tenure or EMI amount may change depending on the additional top-up amount and the lender’s assessment.

Can I get a Top-Up Loan if my credit score has dropped after taking the original loan?

Some lenders may still consider your application, provided you have a good repayment record and have been paying EMIs on time. However, having a low credit score may affect your interest rates. An excellent record with your current lender may enhance the chances of a pre-approved loan offer.

Disclaimer

We take utmost care to provide information based on internal data and reliable sources. However, this article and associated web pages provide generic information for reference purposes only. Readers must make an informed decision by reviewing the products offered and the terms and conditions. Loan disbursal is at the sole discretion of Poonawalla Fincorp.

*Terms and Conditions apply
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