What are the pros and cons of loans borrowed against life insurance policy?

Explains how loans against life insurance work, outlining key benefits like lower interest rates and quick approvals, along with risks such as policy lapse and reduced coverage.
Get Loan Against Insurance Policy!
3 mins
16-June-2025

Secured loans such as home loans and loans against property have long been preferred choices. However, if you have a life insurance policy, it can serve as a powerful financial tool during emergencies. A loan against an insurance policy allows you to access emergency funds without liquidating your assets quickly and efficiently.

Need instant funds without selling off your assets? Apply for a Loan Against Insurance and get funds against your ULIP or endowment plan with minimal paperwork.

Let’s explore the key benefits and limitations of this option to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of a life insurance policy loan

1. Reasonable interest rates

One of the major advantages of a loan against a life insurance policy is the competitive interest rate. Since the policy itself acts as collateral, the lender's risk is reduced, resulting in lower rates compared to unsecured loans. This makes it an economical choice when you’re facing a cash crunch.

Looking for low-cost funds fast? Secure competitive interest rates on your existing ULIP or endowment policy. Apply now

2. Easy availability of loans and less documentation

Getting a loan against your life insurance policy is relatively hassle-free. Unlike unsecured loans that require income proof, bank statements, and extensive KYC, here, the documentation is minimal. Typically, you’ll only need to submit your KYC documents and a copy of your insurance policy.

Once submitted, the loan is disbursed quickly, often within a few working days.

3. Extensive repayment tenure

These loans usually come with a flexible repayment tenure often going up to 96 months. This gives you ample time to repay the loan without disturbing your financial stability. Whether you’re a salaried professional or self-employed, this flexibility can ease your monthly cash flow management.

4. Credit limit

The sanctioned loan amount is set as a credit line meaning you only pay interest on the amount you actually use, and for the duration you use it. This structure works especially well for short-term or staggered expenses.

Example: If you are sanctioned Rs. 20 lakh and withdraw Rs. 5 lakh for six days, interest applies only on Rs. 5 lakh for those six days.

Need flexible fund access without overpaying interest? Apply for a loan against your insurance plan today

5. Tax benefits

In certain situations, the interest paid on a loan against an insurance policy may be eligible for tax deductions. While not universally applicable, consulting a tax professional can help you understand how to make this facility more tax-efficient.

6. Quick and easy application process

The application process is simple and available both online and offline. With digital KYC and minimal steps, your loan journey is fast and frictionless.

7. Can be used for various purposes

Funds availed through a loan against insurance come with no end-use restrictions. You can use them to manage medical emergencies, renovate your home, pay off existing debt, or fund a child’s education. It’s your asset, and you decide how to use the funds.

Cons of a life insurance policy loan

While loans against life insurance plans come with significant advantages, there are a few things borrowers should consider before proceeding.

1. Lesser loan amount

The loan amount is determined based on the surrender value of the policy not the total sum assured. If your policy is in its early years, this value may be low, making it challenging to raise large amounts quickly.

Need higher limits or more options? Explore loans against other securities like mutual funds or shares for better leverage. Apply now

2. Waiting period

Most insurance policies come with a waiting or lock-in period—usually 2 to 5 years—before they accumulate enough surrender value to be eligible for loans. If you need funds urgently and your policy is new, this could be a roadblock.

3. Managing both the loan and the insurance policy simultaneously

Borrowers must continue paying premiums on the insurance policy even after taking the loan. At the same time, they need to service the EMIs or interest on the loan. Missing payments can lead to policy lapse or increased debt, so financial planning is crucial.

4. Policy eligibility concerns

Not all life insurance policies qualify for loans. Typically, only traditional policies like endowment plans or ULIPs are eligible. Term insurance plans don’t offer any surrender value, and hence, cannot be used for loans.

5. Limited access to cash value

The amount you can borrow is only a percentage of the accumulated cash or surrender value not the full maturity value. This limitation could restrict your options in high-stakes emergencies.

6. Limited flexibility

Once the loan is taken, modifying the repayment terms or prepaying may come with conditions. This could reduce flexibility, especially if your cash flow improves and you want to close the loan early.

How to apply loan against life insurance policy?

Applying for a loan against an insurance policy is easy and streamlined. Here’s how:

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Click on ‘Apply’ at the top of this page to access the online form.
  2. Enter your full name, mobile number, and email ID.
  3. Under ‘Type of Security’, choose ‘Insurance Policy’ and enter your surrender value.
  4. Select your city and agree to the terms.
  5. Submit the OTP sent to your phone for verification.

That’s it! Our team will connect with you to guide you through the rest, including policy assignment and document verification. Disbursement happens after successful verification and compliance with sanction terms.

Conclusion

A loan against life insurance policy can be a smart way to secure funds without disturbing your long-term financial goals. While there are eligibility and value-based limitations, this facility offers quick access, flexible usage, and lower interest costs making it a strong choice in times of urgent financial need.

Facing a financial crunch? Use your ULIP or endowment policy to secure a high-value loan at attractive rates. Apply now for a hassle-free experience

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Frequently asked questions 

Is it good to take a loan against an insurance policy?

Yes, taking a loan against a life insurance policy is a smart way to access funds without surrendering the policy. You continue to enjoy insurance coverage while paying lower interest compared to unsecured loans. It's ideal for short-term or urgent financial needs.

Is it good to borrow against life insurance?

Borrowing against life insurance can be beneficial if you need quick, low-interest funds. It offers flexible repayment and no credit check. However, unpaid loans may reduce the death benefit, so it's best used for temporary liquidity needs.

What are the disadvantages of loan against LIC policy?

Disadvantages include reduced death benefits if the loan isn't repaid, and possible policy lapse if interest accumulates unpaid. Also, only certain types of policies are eligible, and some financial emergencies may not be covered under the loan scope.

What is the interest rate of a LIC loan against a policy?

Interest rates for loans against LIC policies typically range from 6% to 24% p.a., depending on the lender. The loan amount depends on the surrender value of the policy, and terms vary by provider.