In today’s evolving world, Personal Loan has emerged as one of the most convenient ways to meet any type of financial needs. With a wide range of loan options available, people often find themselves torn between traditional banks and NBFCs. While both offer similar loan products, the eligibility criteria, interest rates and customer experience can vary significantly. In this blog, learn more about the differences between a bank and an NBFC and which one is suitable for you. Read on!
What is an NBFC Personal Loan?

Non-banking financial company (NBFC) is a financial institution that provides services like loans and credit facilities. An NBFC Personal Loan is an unsecured loan which is offered by these institutions to you, if you’re salaried or self-employed.
Advantages of Choosing an NBFC for Personal Loan
• Digital Application Process: Most
NBFCs have adopted end-to-end digital platforms that allow you to apply for a Personal Loan
from the comfort of your home. From application to approval, the
entire loan process can be completed with just a few taps.
• Simple Eligibility Criteria: NBFCs are
known for their borrower-friendly approach. They offer loans to a
wide pool of applicants, even if you have a limited credit history.
Just have a year of work experience with a monthly income of at
least ₹30,000.
• Minimal Documentation:
Say goodbye to paperwork as NBFCs require just a few
documents including KYC, address proof, income proof, bank statement
and employment proof. NBFCs like Poonawalla Fincorp offers quick
approval based on digital verification.
• Flexible Repayment Tenure: Whether you’re looking for a short-term loan or a longer repayment window, NBFCs offer tenures up to 84 months. This flexibility ensures manageable EMIs that can fit well within your monthly budget.
What is a Bank Personal Loan?
Banks play a major role in how money moves around in the country. They are heavily regulated by the RBI and follow stringent guidelines to ensure financial stability and compliance. Banks usually cater to those applicants who have a stable income and maintain a good credit score.
Advantages of Choosing a Bank for Personal Loan
• Financial Advice: Most banks have dedicated financial advisors who help you with the entire loan process. They analyse your financial scenario and suggest you with the right loan product and offer guidance on managing repayments effectively.
• Trust and Creditability: Since banks are
long-established and regulated by RBI, they offer a sense of security
and reliability.
• Suitable for Long-term
Applicants: If you already have a long-term relationship with
a bank like a salary account or any kind of deposits then you might be
eligible for pre-approved offers with favorable terms.
Key Differences Between Bank and NBFC
Feature |
NBFC |
Bank |
Regulatory Authority |
Regulated by RBI but has more relaxed norms |
Strictly regulated by RBI |
Credit Score |
NBFCs are comparatively lenient, they offer loans even if you have a limited credit history. |
They usually require a high credit score and a stable credit history. |
Processing Time |
Usually offers a quick processing time between (24 to 48) hours. |
Banks take a longer time to process your application. It can sometimes go up to a week or more. |
Loan Tenure |
They are known to offer more relaxed and flexible repayment tenure. NBFCs like Poonawalla Fincorp offer tenure up to 7 years. |
Banks usually offer fixed repayment tenures with less flexibility. |
Loan Customisation |
NBFCs are known for offering loan products that are created as per your needs and financial profile. |
Banks tend to provide standard loan products with limited scope for customization. |
Bank vs NBFC Personal Loan: Which One Should You Choose
The choice between a bank and an NBFC for a Personal Loan ultimately depends on your financial profile, urgency and comfort with the institution.
• Choose an NBFC Personal Loan if: You need
fast funds, prefer minimal documentation and want flexibility in your
repayment tenure.
• Choose a Bank Personal Loan
if: You have a good credit history and can afford to wait a
little long for disbursal. Additionally, if you value traditional
customer services then the bank is an ideal choice.
To Conclude
Both NBFCs and banks have their unique strengths when it comes to offering Personal Loan. While NBFCs lead in simple eligibility criteria, digital application process, minimal documentation and flexible repayment tenure, banks score high on financial advice, trust & credibility and are suitable for long-term applicants. The key is to evaluate your financial needs, eligibility and urgency before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an NBFC Personal Loan differ from a Bank Personal Loan?
NBFCs typically have simpler eligibility criteria, faster processing times, and more flexible repayment options compared to banks, which are more stringent and regulated.
What is the maximum repayment tenure offered by NBFCs for Personal Loans?
NBFCs like Poonawalla Fincorp offer repayment tenures up to 84 months (7 years).
What kind of documentation is required for an NBFC Personal Loan?
Required documents typically include KYC, address proof, income proof, bank statements, and employment proof.
Can I customize my Personal Loan with an NBFC?
Yes, NBFCs are known for offering loan products that can be customized according to your needs and financial profile.
About the Author
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