What is Pre EMI and How to Calculate It?

A pre-EMI calculator shows the interest payable before full EMI repayment starts. To answer how is pre-EMI calculated, it’s charged only on the disbursed loan amount until the complete loan is released.
Personal loan
3 min
01-April-2024

In the realm of loans and financial commitments, pre-EMI is a term that often leaves borrowers with questions. However, this lesser-known concept plays a pivotal role in easing the initial financial strain associated with loan repayment. Pre-EMI, or Pre-Equal Monthly Instalment, is a term commonly associated with personal loans, home loans and other types of loans in India. It refers to the interest component of the loan that is payable each month before the full EMI payments begin.

Pre-EMI is more popular in home loans, especially in India. But, if you are looking for a personal loan with a pre-EMI benefit, then you can opt for Flexi Hybrid Loan by Bajaj Finance Limited. With Flexi Hybrid Term Loan, borrowers are only required to pay the interest on the disbursed loan amount during the initial tenure, and the principal with interest repayment starts only after the initial period ends.

What is Pre-EMI?

Pre EMI, or Pre-Equated Monthly Instalment, is a repayment option provided by lenders during the early stage of a loan. The pre-EMI meaning refers to paying only the interest on the disbursed loan amount, without repaying the principal. This is common during the construction phase of a property, where borrowers make smaller payments until the project is completed.

Using a pre-EMI calculator can help you estimate these payments in advance and manage your finances better. Since pre EMIs are not included in the total loan tenor, once construction is complete, you will begin paying the full EMI with both principal and interest. Pre EMI helps ease financial pressure while your property is still under development.

To further understand and plan pre-EMI payments effectively, borrowers can utilise an EMI calculator. An EMI calculator is a handy tool that helps borrowers estimate their monthly instalment payments based on the loan amount, interest rate, and tenure. By inputting these parameters into the calculator, borrowers can get an accurate projection of their pre-EMI and regular EMI payments, enabling them to make informed financial decisions and plan their loan repayment strategy effectively.

Features and Benefits of Pre-EMI

Pre-EMI payments provide a strategic financial option during the construction phase of a property. Here's why opting for Pre-EMI might be advantageous:

  1. Lower initial financial burden: You only pay the interest on the loan amount disbursed, making it more affordable during the construction period.
  2. Improved cash flow: The reduced payment allows you to manage other financial commitments efficiently until possession.
  3. Tax benefits: Under Section 24(b), interest paid during the pre-construction phase can be claimed in five equal instalments after possession, providing long-term savings.
  4. Gradual loan repayment: It provides a buffer period before full EMI obligations begin, aligning payments with property readiness.

This option is ideal for those seeking flexibility and manageable expenses during the initial stages of homeownership.

When you should choose the Pre-EMI option

Opting for the pre-EMI option can be advantageous in the following scenarios:

  • Under-construction properties: If your home is still being built, pre-EMI payments let you manage costs by paying only the interest on the loan's disbursed amount until the property's completion.
  • Short-term financial constraints: Pre-EMI reduces the immediate financial burden, making it suitable if you're expecting future income growth or managing existing commitments.
  • Investment properties: Ideal for buyers planning to sell the property post-construction, as it lowers upfront costs.

This option helps align repayments with cash flow, though it may result in higher interest costs over time. Always assess long-term financial goals before opting for pre-EMI.

How to calculate pre-EMI?

Pre-EMI is calculated based on the interest payable on the disbursed loan amount during the pre-EMI period. Below are the steps to compute pre-EMI with an example for better clarity:

Formula for Pre-EMI Calculation:

  1. Pre-EMI Interest = Loan Amount × Monthly Interest Rate
  2. Total Pre-EMI Amount = Pre-EMI Interest × Number of Months
  3. Total Repayment Amount = Loan Amount + Total Pre-EMI Amount

Example:

For a loan of Rs. 1,00,000 at an annual interest rate of 12% with a pre-EMI period of 3 months:

Parameters

Details

Loan Amount (Principal)

Rs. 1,00,000

Annual Interest Rate

12%

Monthly Interest Rate

12% ÷ 12 = 1% (0.01)

Number of Months

3

Pre-EMI Interest per Month

Rs. 1,00,000 × 0.01 = Rs. 1,000

Total Pre-EMI Amount

Rs. 1,000 × 3 = Rs. 3,000

Total Repayment Amount

Rs. 1,00,000 + Rs. 3,000 = Rs. 1,03,000


During the 3-month pre-EMI period, you pay Rs. 3,000 as interest, after which regular EMIs (covering both principal and interest) begin.

What is Full EMI?

Full EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) is the monthly repayment towards a loan that includes both the principal amount and the interest. It starts once the entire loan is disbursed, usually after the property is fully constructed or handed over to the borrower.

Key Differences Between Full EMI and Pre-EMI

Aspect

Pre-EMI

Full EMI

When it starts

Applicable during the loan disbursal phase

Begins after the entire loan amount is disbursed

Payment structure

Covers only the interest on the disbursed amount

Includes both principal and interest components

Impact on loan tenor

Shortens the overall tenor as principal repayment starts later

Results in a longer repayment period since payments begin after full disbursal

Repayment nature

Borrowers pay only interest until full loan disbursal

Repayments include both principal and interest from the start

Monthly payment amount

Lower initial payments, which increase once full EMI begins

Higher payments from the beginning as both components are covered

 

Understanding Pre-EMI and Flexi Hybrid Loan

Pre-EMI and Flexi Hybrid Term Loans offer distinct advantages tailored to different borrowing needs. Pre-EMI involves paying only the personal loan interest rate component of the full loan amount initially, gradually transitioning into full EMIs over time. It provides lower initial payments and flexibility in repayment, making it suitable for managing cash flow efficiently, especially during the initial stages of the loan.

In contrast, a Flexi Hybrid Loan offers borrowers a pre-approved credit limit from which they can withdraw funds as and when needed as per the requirement. Interest is charged only on the amount you have withdrawn from the approved loan limit. Borrowers have to pay only interest during the initial tenure of the loan. This option provides flexibility in borrowing, potential interest savings, and convenient repayment options. Borrowers can access funds as per their requirements without the hassle of multiple loan applications, making it ideal for managing fluctuating expenses or addressing unforeseen financial needs.

Choosing a Flexi Hybrid Loan offers several benefits:

  1. Flexibility: Borrowers can access funds as needed without reapplying for a loan, providing financial flexibility to address varying needs.
  2. Interest savings: Interest is charged only on the amount withdrawn, potentially resulting in savings compared to traditional term loans where interest accrues on the entire loan amount.
  3. Convenient repayment: Borrowers can repay the borrowed amount at their convenience, either through EMIs or lump-sum payments, aligning with their cash flow and financial goals.

Pre-EMI emerges as a beacon of financial relief, offering lower initial EMIs and tax benefits to borrowers. However, Choosing a Flexi hybrid loan over a traditional loan with pre-EMI offers compelling advantages. Its flexibility in repayment, lower initial payments, and potential interest savings make it an attractive option. With simple personal loan eligibility and documents, customisable repayment schedules and the ability to mitigate income fluctuations, borrowers gain greater control over their finances. Additionally, reduced overall borrowing costs further sweeten the deal. In a world where financial circumstances can change rapidly, the adaptability and cost-effectiveness of Flexi hybrid loans make them a prudent choice for borrowers seeking financial stability and control.

Conclusion

Flexi hybrid loans combine convenience and financial adaptability, making them an excellent alternative to traditional loans. Whether you're managing home or personal loan repayments, their customizable schedules and reduced borrowing costs empower borrowers with control and stability. These features ensure optimal financial management, catering to ever-changing income and expense dynamics.

Frequently asked questions

What are the disadvantages of pre EMI?

Pre-EMI payments only cover the interest, not the principal, which can lead to higher overall interest payments. It also doesn't reduce the loan balance, delaying principal repayment, which can increase total loan cost over time.

Is pre-EMI a good option?

Pre-EMI can be a good option if you want lower initial payments during the construction phase. However, it increases the total cost of the loan since it only covers interest, so it's ideal for borrowers who need financial flexibility.

What is the interest in pre-EMI?

The interest in pre-EMI is calculated on the disbursed loan amount at the applicable monthly interest rate. Borrowers only pay this interest during the pre-EMI phase, without reducing the principal amount.

Can we change pre-EMI to full EMI?

Yes, once the property is completed or the full loan is disbursed, pre-EMI converts to full EMI. This involves repaying both the interest and principal, resulting in higher monthly payments.

Is pre-EMI compulsory?

Pre-EMI is not compulsory. Borrowers can choose between pre-EMI or full EMI depending on their financial needs and whether the loan is for an under-construction property.

Is pre-EMI refundable?

No, pre-EMI is not refundable. It's an interest payment on the disbursed amount, and once paid, it is not returned, even if the loan conditions change.

Which is better, pre-EMI or full EMI?

Pre-EMI offers lower initial payments, while full EMI helps reduce overall interest. The better option depends on your financial stability and loan repayment strategy.

Does prepayment of EMI affect credit score?

Yes, timely EMI prepayment can positively impact your credit score by lowering outstanding debt. However, missing or delaying payments may negatively affect your credit history.

What is pre-EMI to EMI conversion?

Pre-EMI to EMI conversion happens once the full loan amount is disbursed, shifting from interest-only payments to regular EMIs covering both principal and interest.

How to calculate advance EMI?

You can calculate advance EMI using an online EMI calculator by entering the loan amount, tenure, and interest rate to estimate payments due in advance.

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