How does Prepayment work?
When you make a lumpsum prepayment, the amount is directly deducted from your Principal Outstanding. Since interest is calculated on the principal, a lower principal means lower interest for the rest of the tenure.
Reduce Tenure or Reduce EMI?
Most banks allow you to choose:
- Reduce Tenure: Keep paying the same EMI. This saves the Maximum Interest and makes you debt-free faster. (Recommended)
- Reduce EMI: Keep the tenure same but lower monthly payments. Good if you are facing cash flow issues.
Prepayment Charges
For Floating Rate Home Loans, RBI has mandated Zero Prepayment Charges for individuals. However, fixed-rate loans or personal loans may have a penalty of 2-4%. Check your loan agreement.