A business loan balance transfer is when a business combines multiple loans into one loan with better terms and conditions. This is usually done to get a lower interest rate and a higher loan amount, which can help reduce the repayment burden and prevent default.
The interest rates of the existing loans, their outstanding amounts, and the remaining tenure all affect the transfer. Many lenders, banks, and NBFCs offer the option of a business loan balance transfer, but only if the business has been making regular payments and has no history of defaults
This option is particularly useful for smaller businesses that are just starting out, as it allows them to use the saved money to build up their working capital.
If a company decides to go ahead with a Business Loan Balance Transfer, the process is pretty simple. They need to apply online with their personal and business information. The new lender then verifies the information and, if everything checks out, they transfer the remaining balance of the loan from the old lender to their bank account.
After the transfer, the company will start paying back the loan to the new lender at a lower interest rate. However, it’s important to note that the new lender will also check the company’s credit score to make sure they can manage their finances responsibly.
Example
Let’s say a clothing store, has a loan of Rs. 10 lakhs at an interest rate of 15% per annum from Bank A. The store is finding it challenging to keep up with the EMI payments, and the high-interest rate is making it difficult for the store to grow its business.
The store decides to opt for Business Loan Balance Transfer and approaches Bank B, which offers them an interest rate of 12% per annum. After verifying the store’s documents and credit score, Bank B transfers the outstanding loan amount of Rs. 8 lakhs (after deducting the amount already paid) to their account and pays the same amount to Bank A.
Now the store has to repay the Rs. 8 lakhs to Bank B, but at a lower interest rate of 12% per annum, resulting in reduced monthly EMIs. The store can use the saved money to build up their working capital or invest it in their business, thereby helping their business grow.
How Business Loan Balance Transfer Can Help Your Company?
If your company is looking for ways to reduce its repayment burden or improve its finances, a Business Loan Balance Transfer may be a viable option. Here are some key benefits of this option:
Lower Interest Rates: With a Business Loan Balance Transfer, you can transfer your existing loan balance to a bank that offers lower interest rates. This can result in significant savings over time, as lower interest rates mean lower monthly payments.
Reduced Financial Stress: By lowering your monthly payments, a Business Loan Balance Transfer can help to reduce financial stress and improve your company’s overall financial situation. This can give you more flexibility in terms of your budget and can help your business grow and thrive.
Better Loan Terms: When you opt for a Business Loan Balance Transfer, you have the opportunity to find a lender that offers better loan terms, such as reduced processing fees, waived last EMIs, and other benefits. This can result in greater convenience and better service for your company.
More Savings for MSMEs: Small businesses and MSMEs can benefit greatly from a Business Loan Balance Transfer, as it can create significant savings and free up capital for other business expenses. This can help you scale up your operations and take your business to the next level.
Overall, a Business Loan Balance Transfer can be an effective way to improve your company’s financial situation and reduce the burden of high-interest loans. By exploring this option and finding the right lender, you can enjoy long-term benefits and achieve greater success for your business.
Factors to Consider for Business Loan Balance Transfer
If you’re looking to reduce the burden of your business loan repayments, a balance transfer could be an option for you. However, before opting for a business loan balance transfer, it’s important to consider a few factors that could affect your decision.
Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs)
One of the primary reasons for transferring your business loan balance is to take advantage of lower interest rates. But when transferring your balance, make sure that the new lender agrees to the initial loan tenure. An extended loan tenure could result in a higher repayment amount, which may be counterproductive.
Processing Fees and Charges
When you opt for a balance transfer, the new lender might charge you a processing fee, which could be higher than what your previous lender charged. Ensure that the additional costs don’t add up to an extra repayment burden.
Extra Offers
Before choosing a new lender, inquire about any additional discounts or offers they provide. Availing such discounts or offers can lower your monthly repayments and reduce the overall repayment burden.
Terms and Conditions
Carefully read all the terms and conditions associated with the balance transfer agreement. Ensure that all your doubts and questions are addressed and that there are no hidden clauses that may affect your repayment plan.
Bank Transfer
If you don’t have an account with your new lender, you may need to open a new bank account for the balance transfer. Keep in mind that this could add to the overall cost of the loan, so it’s recommended to transfer your balance to a lender where you already have an account.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a business loan balance transfer is right for you.
What are the Business Loan Interest Rates offered by Top Banks and NBFCs in India?
Comparison of Business Loan Balance Transfer Interest Rates in Top Banks/NBFCs
If you are looking to transfer your existing business loan balance to another lender, it is important to compare the interest rates offered by various banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). Here is a list of interest rates and loan tenure offered by some of the leading banks and NBFCs in India:
Banks
- ICICI Bank offers an interest rate of up to 17.00% p.a. with a loan tenure of up to 7 years.
- HDFC Bank offers an interest rate ranging from 11.90% p.a. to 21.35% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 48 months.
- Kotak Mahindra Bank offers an interest rate between 16% to 19.99% p.a. with a loan tenure ranging from 24 months to 5 years.
- IndusInd Bank offers an interest rate between 13.00% p.a. to 22.00% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 5 years.
- Axis Bank offers an interest rate starting at 17% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 5 years.
- State Bank of India offers an interest rate starting at 11.20% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 48 months.
- Bank of Baroda offers an interest rate starting at 14.10% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 36 months.
- Indian Overseas Bank offers an interest rate of 10.80% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 5 years.
NBFCs
- HDB Financial Services offers an interest rate starting at 16.75% p.a. with a loan tenure of 12 months to 4 years.
- India Infoline offers an interest rate ranging from 1.5% to 2.5% with a loan tenure of 12 to 36 months.
- Mahindra Finance does not provide specific information regarding their interest rates or loan tenure. You will need to contact the lender directly for more information.
- Tata Capital offers an interest rate starting at 19% p.a. with a loan tenure of up to 36 months.
- Aditya Birla Finance Limited offers an interest rate of 14% with a loan tenure of 12 months to 3 years.
If you need assistance in finding a suitable loan option, you can connect with a loan advisor for guidance.
FAQs
A business loan balance transfer is a process where you transfer your existing business loans to a new lender to avail a better rate of interest and other benefits. It involves taking a new loan from a new lender and using the proceeds to pay off the outstanding amount of the existing loan(s).
Opting for a business loan balance transfer can be a good idea if the new lender is offering a lower interest rate and better terms and conditions. It can help you reduce your monthly EMI payments and save money on interest charges. However, you should carefully consider the processing fees, prepayment charges, and other associated costs before making a decision.
A business loan balance transfer can affect your credit score if you miss payments or default on the loan. It is important to ensure that you continue making timely repayments and clear the outstanding dues on the old loan(s) before opting for a balance transfer. Additionally, applying for multiple loans or balance transfers within a short period can also negatively impact your credit score.
To determine the best balance transfer option for you, consider the interest rate, fees, and terms of each offer. Look for a balance transfer offer with a low interest rate and minimal fees. Additionally, consider the length of the introductory period and ensure it gives you enough time to pay off the balance.
Yes, it is possible to transfer the balance of a business loan to a different lender. This is known as a business loan balance transfer. However, before transferring the balance, compare the interest rates and fees of the new lender with your current lender to ensure that the transfer will save you money.