A business loan is a perfect option for emergencies when your organization is in dire need of finances. With simple application processes and quick disbursals, there are plenty of lenders from where you can get your loan processed almost instantly. But sometimes, paying back the loan can become challenging due to unexpected circumstances. As a result, you miss EMI payments. So, how does this affect you? Let’s find out.
1. Affects credit score and credit report
One of the first things that a late EMI does is it affects your CIBIL score. Depending on your payment’s delay, you are marked as a minor defaulter (payment made within 90 days) or a major defaulter (not completed payments in over 90 days). Accordingly, your credit score takes a hit. Maintaining a good credit score is essential, especially if you’re looking for new loans with better business loan interest rates in the future.
2. Penalties
A late EMI payment can attract additional charges as the lender could impose penalties on missing timely payments. Typically, lenders have a grace period after your due date, for which you face no charges. However, they will charge you a penalty that varies from lender to lender if you cross the grace period. Usually, it’s around 1-2% of your EMI.
3. Lowers future borrowing capacity
Whether you already have a loan or not, lenders mandatorily examine your credit score and report carefully to ascertain your financial stability when you apply for a new one. A low score shows you’re not paying EMIs on time, whatever the reason.
Now, if you’re a defaulter, it will show up in this examination. Sometimes, with a meager score, you will not meet the eligibility criteria. Sometimes, even with a bad score, lenders may hesitate to give you money. Even if they make an exception, the amount you receive may be lower than you need and higher business loan interest rates.
4. Potential legal implications
In extreme cases, there are chances you can go to jail or face a civil suit. At the same time, they’re scarce, especially for a secured business loan. However, this only occurs after multiple unsuccessful attempts by the lender to get their money. Most often, matters are sorted out much earlier, and this is a last resort of sorts.
The above consequences highlight the importance of a business loan EMI calculator and why you should use one to determine if the amount you seek is within your means. When you take a business loan, you should be able to handle the repayment. A good tip is to ensure EMI payments are less than 45% of your monthly earnings so regular payment is possible and you can pay them comfortably.
