Loan Against Fixed Deposit
A Loan Against Fixed Deposit is a secured loan that allows you to borrow money by using your FD as collateral. This means you don’t need to break your fixed deposit to meet urgent financial needs. It is a smart and low-risk way to get funds quickly, and the interest rate is lower than unsecured loans like personal loans. This facility is offered by most banks and NBFCs and comes with flexible repayment terms. In this article, we will explain how it works, its benefits, eligibility, and the application process.
What is Loan Against Fixed Deposit?
Loan Against FD is a credit facility where the borrower pledges their fixed deposit as security to get a loan. The bank allows you to borrow up to 90–95% of the value of your FD. You continue to earn interest on the deposit, and you pay interest only on the borrowed amount. The loan tenure usually matches the FD term, and the FD remains locked until the loan is repaid.
Features of Loan Against FD
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Loan Amount: Up to 90% of the FD value
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Interest Rate: 1% to 2% higher than the FD interest rate
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Tenure: Same as or less than the FD maturity period
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Collateral: No separate collateral needed
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No Processing Fee: Some banks may waive it
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Quick Disbursement: Instant loan approval and transfer
Benefits of Loan Against Fixed Deposit
1. Low Interest Rates
Since this is a secured loan, the interest rate is much lower compared to personal or credit card loans.
2. No Need to Break FD
You continue earning interest on your FD, even while using it as collateral.
3. Easy and Fast Processing
As the FD is already with the bank, the loan gets approved quickly without lengthy verification.
4. No Credit Score Requirement
You can get a loan even with a low or no credit score since your FD secures the loan.
5. Flexible Repayment
Most banks offer flexible repayment options with no prepayment penalty.
Eligibility Criteria
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Must have a fixed deposit with the bank/NBFC
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FD should be in your name or jointly held (as per lender’s policy)
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Minors are not eligible
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Tax-saving FDs are usually not eligible
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NRE/NRO deposits have limited options
How to Apply for Loan Against FD
1. Online Method
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Login to your internet banking account
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Select the option for “Loan Against FD”
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Enter the loan amount and tenure
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Accept terms and confirm to get instant disbursal
2. Offline Method
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Visit your bank branch
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Fill out the loan application form
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Submit ID proof and FD receipt
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Loan is processed within a few hours
Documents Required
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Fixed Deposit receipt or details
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Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN)
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Address proof
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Signed loan agreement (if applicable)
When Should You Choose a Loan Against FD?
A loan against fixed deposit is ideal for:
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Medical emergencies
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Business or personal cash needs
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Paying education or travel expenses
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Managing temporary financial shortages
Instead of liquidating your FD and losing interest income, you can borrow against it at low cost.
Things to Keep in Mind
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Loan must be repaid before FD matures
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If you default, the bank can break the FD
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Some banks may not offer loans on 5-year tax-saving FDs
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Interest continues on FD during the loan period
Conclusion
A Loan Against Fixed Deposit is a simple, fast, and cost-effective way to borrow money in emergencies. With benefits like low interest rates, no credit check, and quick disbursal, it is one of the best options for FD holders. Before applying, compare terms and conditions across banks to choose the best deal.