CGTMSE Fees and Annual Guarantee Fee: Structure, Rates and Benefits

Learn about CGTMSE fees, AGF structure, rates, and concessions for MSME loans under India's collateral-free credit scheme.
CGTMSE Scheme
5 min
March 11, 2026

The Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme, launched by the Government of India and SIDBI, aims to provide collateral-free loans to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). It offers a credit guarantee to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) to cover the risk of borrower default, enabling easier access to finance without traditional collateral or third-party guarantees.

While the scheme helps entrepreneurs overcome financing barriers, borrowers should be aware of the applicable CGTMSE fees. These charges play a vital role in ensuring the Trust’s sustainability and continued support for small businesses.

What are CGTMSE fees?

CGTMSE fees are charges levied by the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises in return for providing credit guarantee cover to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) on behalf of MSME borrowers.

These fees can be understood as a guarantee premium, similar to an insurance premium. The Trust assumes a portion of the risk if a borrower defaults on the loan. In exchange for taking on this risk, it charges an Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF), which helps ensure that the guarantee fund remains financially stable and operational.

How CGTMSE fees work

PartyRole in CGTMSE fee
CGTMSE trustProvides credit guarantee cover and collects the Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF).
Member Lending Institution (MLI)Pays the AGF to the Trust and generally recovers the amount from the borrower as part of the loan cost.
MSME borrowerUsually bears the ultimate cost of the fee but benefits from improved access to collateral-free credit.

This structure enables financial institutions to lend more confidently to small businesses while helping MSMEs access credit without the need to pledge collateral.

Types of CGTMSE fees

CGTMSE fees come in various forms, each playing a unique role in the loan guarantee scheme. Explore the various types of CGTMSE fees crucial for small businesses.

  • Guarantee fee: Essential charge ensuring the loan guarantee.
  • Annual service fee: Covers operational costs on an annual basis.
  • Upfront fee: One-time payment at the loan sanction stage.
  • Nominal charges: Accessible for entrepreneurs, aiding in smaller rural cities.
  • Strategic planning: Understanding and budgeting effectively for business owners.
  • Sustainability: Each fee type contributes to the long-term support of small enterprises.
  • Financial empowerment: Knowledge of these fees empowers entrepreneurs to benefit from the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises.

If you are considering small business funding options, the shishu mudra loan could also be a good starting point for smaller loan amounts.

CGTMSE Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) Structure

The Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) under the CGTMSE scheme is not a uniform rate but follows a tiered structure based on the loan amount sanctioned. Smaller credit facilities are usually charged a lower percentage, ensuring affordability for micro and small borrowers.

The current AGF structure (applicable to all activities, including trading, for guarantees approved or renewed on or after April 1, 2025, or as per the latest notification) is as follows:

Loan Slab (Credit Facility Amount)Standard Annual Guarantee Fee (per annum)
Up to Rs. 10 Lakh0.37%
Above Rs. 10 Lakh - Up to Rs. 50 Lakh0.55%
Above Rs. 50 Lakh - Up to Rs. 1 Crore0.60%
Above Rs. 1 Crore - Up to Rs. 2 Crore0.85%
Above Rs. 2 Crore - Up to Rs. 5 Crore1.00%
Above Rs. 5 Crore - Up to Rs. 8 Crore1.10%
Above Rs. 8 Crore - Up to Rs. 10 Crore1.20%


Note: The scheme provides coverage for loans up to Rs. 10 Crore. The AGF is applied to the guaranteed amount for the first year and to the outstanding balance for subsequent years.

Role of the Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF)

The Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) represents the primary cost for borrowers under the CGTMSE scheme and acts as a premium for the credit risk protection offered by the Trust.

  • First-year calculation: In the initial year, the AGF is charged on the total sanctioned or guaranteed loan amount, as defined by the prevailing scheme guidelines.
  • Subsequent-year calculation: For the remaining loan tenure, the AGF is computed on the outstanding loan balance as of a specified date (typically March 31) each year. This structure benefits borrowers since the payable fee decreases annually in proportion to the principal amount repaid.

Concessions and Discounts on CGTMSE AGF

Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises offers concessional Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) rates for certain priority borrower categories. Typically, these borrowers receive a 10% reduction on the applicable standard AGF rate. Such concessions are intended to promote financial inclusion and encourage entrepreneurship among underrepresented and priority business communities in India.

Eligible categories for CGTMSE AGF concession

Borrower categoryConcessionCondition
Women entrepreneurs10% reduction on the standard AGFThe micro or small enterprise is owned or managed by women.
SC/ST entrepreneurs10% reduction on the standard AGFThe enterprise is promoted by an individual belonging to the SC/ST category.
Aspirational districts10% reduction on the standard AGFThe business unit is located in a government-designated Aspirational District.
ZED-Certified units10% reduction on the standard AGFThe enterprise holds a valid Zero Effect Zero Defect (ZED) certification.
North Eastern Region, J&K and Ladakh10% reduction on the standard AGFApplicable to enterprises located in the North Eastern Region (including Sikkim), Jammu & Kashmir, or Ladakh for loans up to Rs. 50 lakh.

These concessions help make credit guarantee coverage more affordable, thereby supporting wider access to finance for eligible MSMEs.

Factors affecting CGTMSE fees

Ever wondered why CGTMSE fees vary? Dive into the factors that influence these charges, providing insights that help you navigate the financial landscape and plan your entrepreneurial journey wisely.

  • Loan amount: CGTMSE fees often correlate with the sanctioned loan amount.
  • Business profile: The nature and scale of the business influence fee variations.
  • Risk assessment: Individual borrower risk affects the Guarantee Fee percentage.
  • Tenure: Longer loan tenures may impact the Annual Service Fee.
  • Industry type: Different sectors may have varying fee structures.
  • Previous track record: Borrower's credit history may impact fee calculations.
  • Economic conditions: Fluctuations in the economic landscape can affect CGTMSE fees.
  • Government policies: Changes in policies may influence fee structures.
  • Financial inclusivity: CGTMSE aims to keep fees accessible for diverse businesses.
  • Transparent communication: Clear understanding aids in navigating fee-related complexities.

For those who are managing their business finances, exploring the pmfme scheme could offer additional avenues of support for micro and small enterprises.

How is the CGTMSE AGF calculated?

The Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) is computed by the Member Lending Institution (MLI) as a percentage of the guaranteed or outstanding loan amount.

Formula:
Annual Guarantee Fee = Guaranteed Amount × Applicable AGF Rate

Example:
If a micro or small enterprise (MSE) secures a Rs. 40 lakh fund-based loan with an AGF rate of 0.55%:

  • Guaranteed amount: Assuming 75% coverage, Rs. 40 lakh × 75% = Rs. 30 lakh.
  • First-year AGF: Rs. 30 lakh × 0.55% = Rs. 16,500.
  • Subsequent years: The AGF is recalculated annually on the remaining guaranteed portion (as of March 31). As the principal reduces with repayments, the payable AGF amount decreases proportionately.

Who needs to pay CGTMSE fees?

Under CGTMSE guidelines, the Member Lending Institution (MLI), whether a bank or financial institution, pays the Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) directly to the Trust. However, this cost is usually recovered from the borrower. The choice to bear or transfer the fee lies with the lender, though in most cases, MLIs pass the AGF expense to the borrower as part of the loan cost.

Benefits of paying CGTMSE fees

Paying CGTMSE fees isn't just an obligation – it's an investment in your business's future. Discover the advantages that come with fulfilling these financial commitments, paving the way for a secure and supported entrepreneurial venture.

  • Enhanced loan accessibility: Payment of CGTMSE fees increases the likelihood of loan approval for small businesses.
  • Financial security: CGTMSE provides a safety net, ensuring lenders against potential losses, and fostering financial security for borrowers.
  • Competitive interest rates: Fulfilling CGTMSE obligations may lead to more favourable interest rates, reducing the overall cost of borrowing.
  • Business growth opportunities: Access to CGTMSE-backed loans opens doors for business expansion, helping entrepreneurs realize growth aspirations.
  • Trust building: Consistent payment of fees builds trust with lenders, establishing a positive financial track record for future transactions.
  • Economic development: CGTMSE fees contribute to the overall development of the small business sector, fostering economic growth.
  • Risk mitigation: CGTMSE ensures financial support in case of borrower default, mitigating risks for both lenders and entrepreneurs.
  • Financial inclusion: By paying CGTMSE fees, entrepreneurs contribute to the inclusivity of financial services, promoting economic diversity.
  • Transparent financial landscape: Understanding and fulfilling CGTMSE fees creates a transparent financial environment, facilitating informed business decisions.
  • Long-term business sustainability: Benefits of paying CGTMSE fees extend to long-term business sustainability, providing continuous support for small enterprises.

If you are looking for more financial opportunities for your business, you can also consider applying for the eclgs-emergency-credit-line-guarantee-scheme, which offers quick assistance during tough times.

Consequences of Non-Payment of CGTMSE AGF

Failure to pay the Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) under the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises can lead to significant consequences for both the lending institution and the borrower. Timely payment of the AGF is essential to ensure that the credit guarantee cover remains valid throughout the loan tenure. Below is an overview of what may occur if the AGF is not paid within the prescribed time.

Consequences of AGF non-payment

ConsequenceWho it affectsImpact
Guarantee cover terminatedBorrower and Member Lending Institution (MLI)The CGTMSE guarantee protection on the outstanding loan amount is cancelled.
Bank exposed to full credit riskMLIThe lender can no longer claim reimbursement from CGTMSE in the event of borrower default.
Loan account reviewBorrowerThe bank may reassess the loan terms and could request additional security or safeguards.
Risk to NPA claimMLIFor accounts classified as non-performing assets (NPAs), the AGF must be paid up to the claim date to retain guarantee coverage.
Claim settlement deniedMLICGTMSE will not process guarantee claims if AGF payments are not up to date.

AGF payment responsibilities

ResponsibilityParty responsibleTimeline
Calculation of AGFMember Lending Institution (MLI)Prior to the annual due date
Remittance of AGF to the TrustMLIWithin the deadline prescribed by CGTMSE
Recovery of AGF from the borrowerMLI (where agreed)As specified in the loan agreement
Maintenance of payment recordsMLIThroughout the loan tenure

Ensuring that AGF payments are made on time helps maintain uninterrupted guarantee protection and safeguards both lenders and borrowers under the CGTMSE framework.

CGTMSE vs other credit guarantee schemes in India

India has several credit guarantee frameworks designed to support different categories of borrowers. Understanding how the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises compares with other schemes can help MSMEs select the most suitable option for their financing requirements.

ParameterCGTMSECGFMU (Mudra)NCGTCECGC
Full nameCredit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small EnterprisesCredit Guarantee Fund for Micro UnitsNational Credit Guarantee Trustee CompanyExport Credit Guarantee Corporation of India
Administered bySmall Industries Development Bank of India and Government of IndiaMUDRA LtdDepartment of Financial ServicesMinistry of Commerce and Industry
Target borrowerMicro and Small EnterprisesMicro enterprises under Mudra loansVarious priority sector borrowersExporters
Maximum loan coverageUp to Rs. 10 croreUp to ₹10 lakhVaries by schemeLinked to export credit
Collateral requirementNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
Fee structureAnnual Guarantee Fee (AGF) of approximately 0.37%–1.20%Nominal or nilVaries by schemeVaries
Best suited forMSEs seeking loans between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 10 croreMicro enterprises requiring funding up to Rs. 10 lakhLoans under specific priority sector programmesBusinesses engaged in export activities

Each scheme is designed to address different financing needs, allowing businesses to choose the most appropriate credit guarantee support based on their size, sector, and funding requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CGTMSE fees are more than just charges, they are the cornerstone of support for small businesses.

As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, explore the possibilities with Bajaj Finserv Business Loan, providing tailored solutions to fuel your business dreams.

Helpful resources and tips for business loan borrowers

Types of business loanBusiness Loan Interest RatesBusiness Loan Eligibility
Business Loan EMI CalculatorUnsecured Business LoanHow to Apply for Business Loan
Working Capital LoanMSME LoanMudra Loan
Machinery LoanPersonal Loan for Self EmployedCommercial Loan

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Frequently asked questions

What are the CGTMSE charges?

CGTMSE charges are the financial components associated with the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises. These charges contribute to the support system that aids small businesses in securing loans.

What is CGTMSE coverage?

CGTMSE coverage refers to the extent of financial protection provided by the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises. It safeguards lenders against losses in case of default by the borrower.

What is the charge required by the CGTMSE for loans up to 5 lakh?

For loans up to 5 lakh, CGTMSE charges a fee based on the loan amount. This fee is a nominal percentage that contributes to the sustainability of the loan guarantee scheme, fostering financial inclusivity.