Is a Personal Loan Secured or Unsecured?

Published: March 18, 2025
Updated: January 5, 2026
Category: Advice

A personal loan is typically an unsecured loan, meaning it does not require any collateral such as property, gold, or fixed deposits. Approval is based on the borrower's income, credit score, and repayment capacity rather than on pledged assets.

In some cases, lenders may also offer secured personal loans where collateral is provided to reduce lender risk and access higher loan amounts or lower interest rates.


Understanding Secured and Unsecured Personal Loans

Personal loans can be broadly categorised into two types:

1. Secured Personal Loans

A secured personal loan requires the borrower to pledge collateral, such as a property, fixed deposit, gold, or any other valuable asset, to obtain the loan. The lender holds the right to seize the asset in case of non-repayment.

Key Features of Secured Personal Loans

Examples of Secured Personal Loans

2. Unsecured Personal Loans

An unsecured personal loan does not require collateral, making it a preferred choice for salaried individuals and self-employed professionals. Lenders give approval based on factors such as income, credit score, and repayment history.

Key Features of Unsecured Personal Loans

Examples of Unsecured Personal Loans


When to Choose a Secured Personal Loan?

Choose a secured personal loan if:


When to Choose an Unsecured Personal Loan?

Choose an unsecured personal loan if:


Interest Rates and Loan Amounts: Secured vs. Unsecured Loans

The interest rates and loan amounts differ significantly between secured and unsecured personal loans. Here's a comparison:

Loan Type Interest Rates Loan Amount Repayment Tenure
Secured Personal Loan 7% - 15% p.a. ₹5 Lakhs - ₹5 Crores Can extend up to 10 years or more
Unsecured Personal Loan 10% - 28% p.a. ₹50,000 - ₹40 Lakhs Can extend up to 5 years

Note: Interest rates on loans depend on the lender, borrower's credit history, CIBIL score and loan tenure.


How to Improve Your Loan Eligibility?

Regardless of whether you choose a secured or unsecured loan, here are some tips to enhance your eligibility:

Maintain a High Credit Score

A score above 750 increases approval chances and helps secure better loan interest rates.

Reduce Existing Debt

Lower your existing EMIs (monthly payments) and outstanding loans before you apply for personal loans.

Choose the Right Loan Tenure

Opting for a longer tenure reduces EMI burden, making approval easier.

Compare Loan Offers

Always look at different lenders. This helps you find the best interest rate and loan terms. It can save you from paying higher interest rates.

Maintain a Stable Income Source

A stable income in your savings account or consistent business income improves loan eligibility.


Conclusion

A personal loan can be either secured or unsecured, depending on the borrower's financial situation and preferences.

Secured loans are good for people who can offer collateral and want lower interest rates. They are great for people who can provide collateral and want lower interest rates.

Unsecured loans are better for borrowers who need quick cash without risking their assets. They are better for those who need quick cash without risking their assets.

Before applying for a loan, compare different lenders. Check interest rates, understand processing fees, and assess your ability to repay. Choosing the right type of personal loan can help you achieve your financial goals without unnecessary financial strain.

Looking for a personal loan? Check your eligibility today and get instant approval!


Frequently Asked Questions

What is a secured personal loan?

A secured personal loan requires the borrower to pledge collateral, such as a property, fixed deposit, gold, or any other valuable asset, to obtain the loan. The lender holds the right to seize the asset in case of non-repayment. It offers lower interest rates due to reduced lender risk, higher loan amounts can be approved, and easier approval for individuals with low credit scores.

What is an unsecured personal loan?

An unsecured personal loan does not require collateral, making it a preferred choice for salaried individuals and self-employed professionals. Lenders give approval based on factors such as income, credit score, and repayment history. It features faster approval and disbursement, but interest rates are higher due to increased lender risk.

When should I choose a secured personal loan?

Choose a secured personal loan if you need a higher loan amount for major expenses such as home renovation, business expansion, or medical treatment; if you have a low credit score but own valuable assets; if you want to save on interest costs by availing of a lower interest rate; or if you are comfortable pledging an asset as collateral. Mostly used for higher loan amounts like home loan, education loan and business loan.

When should I choose an unsecured personal loan?

Choose an unsecured personal loan if you need quick funds and loan approvals without pledging assets; if you have a good credit score and stable income; if you require a short-to-medium loan tenure for borrowing money; or if you prefer a hassle-free loan process with less documents required.


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