Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) policies are not just about providing life coverage; they can also be a valuable financial resource. A loan against an LIC policy enables policyholders to access funds quickly by using their life insurance policy as collateral. This type of loan is ideal for those who need immediate liquidity without disrupting their long-term investment plans or life coverage benefits. By leveraging the surrender value of the policy, borrowers can secure a loan to meet various financial needs, such as emergency expenses, education costs, or business investments, while continuing to enjoy the benefits of their insurance policy.
Introduction to loan against LIC policy
A loan against a Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) policy is a secured loan where the policyholder can borrow funds using their life insurance policy as collateral. This type of loan offers a convenient way to access funds without having to liquidate other assets or investments. The amount that can be borrowed depends on the surrender value of the policy, which is the amount payable by the insurer if the policy is voluntarily terminated before its maturity date.
Loan against LIC policy explained
A loan against an LIC policy allows policyholders to use the policy as security for a loan. The loan amount is typically a percentage of the surrender value, often ranging from 70% to 90%. The policyholder continues to enjoy the benefits of the life insurance policy, including coverage, while the loan is outstanding. Interest is charged on the loan amount, and the policyholder can repay the loan in flexible installments.
Factors influencing loan against LIC policy
Several factors influence the loan amount and terms for a loan against an LIC policy:
- Surrender value: The primary factor is the policy's surrender value, which determines the maximum loan amount.
- Policy tenure: Longer tenure policies may have higher surrender values.
- Loan-to-value ratio: The percentage of the surrender value that the lender is willing to offer as a loan.
- Interest rates: The interest rate applied to the loan, which can vary between lenders.
- Repayment terms: Flexibility in repayment terms can influence the decision to take a loan.
Advantages of loan against LIC policy
- Quick access to funds: Loans are processed quickly, providing financial relief.
- No impact on policy benefits: The policy continues to provide life cover and other benefits.
- Lower interest rates: Typically, interest rates are lower than those for unsecured loans.
- Flexible repayment options: Borrowers can choose from various repayment plans.
Risks associated with loan against LIC policy
- Interest accumulation: Unpaid interest can accumulate, increasing the overall debt.
- Limited loan amount: The loan amount is restricted to the policy’s surrender value.
- Impact on policy benefits: If the loan and interest are not repaid, it can reduce the death benefit payable.
Steps to avail loan against LIC policy
- Check eligibility: Ensure your policy is eligible for a loan.
- Calculate loan amount: Determine the surrender value and the loan amount you need.
- Submit application: Fill out the loan application form.
- Provide documents: Submit necessary documents such as the original policy document and ID proof as may be required by the lender.
- Approval and disbursement: Sanctioning and disbursement of the loan shall be subject to submission and verification of all the requisite documents and assignment of insurance policy in favour of the lender to secure the loan.
Comparison with other loan options
Loan against LIC policy vs. Personal loan
Feature | Loan against LIC Policy | Personal loan |
Collateral required | Yes, LIC Policy | No |
Interest rates | Lower | Higher |
Loan amount | Percentage of surrender value | Based on income/credit |
Credit score impact | No | Yes |
Repayment flexibility | High | Moderate |
Loan against LIC policy vs. Loan against securities
Feature | Loan against LIC policy | Loan against securities |
Collateral required | Yes, LIC Policy | Yes, shares/securities |
Interest rates | Lower | Variable |
Loan amount | Percentage of surrender value | Up to 50% of security value |
Market risk | None | Yes, depends on market |
Credit score impact | No | No |
Conclusion
A loan against an LIC policy is a viable option for policyholders needing quick access to funds without affecting their life insurance benefits. It offers lower interest rates and flexible repayment options compared to unsecured loans. However, borrowers should be aware of the risks, such as policy lapse and interest accumulation, and ensure timely repayment to avoid any adverse impact on their policy benefits. Comparing this option with other loan types can help in making an informed financial decision.