It's always a good idea to have a solid backup plan in case life gives us a surprise. A unique way of safeguarding your family’s future while also being able to borrow money when needed is made available by Postal Life Insurance (PLI). Did you know that you can borrow against your PLI policy if you have one? It's similar to using your own insurance as a buffer when things are rough financially. The caveat is that you will have to pay interest, just like with any loan.
Take Ranbir as an example. He was a 35-year-old schoolteacher who needed money. He had a life insurance policy for which he was duly paying his premiums. After conducting some investigation, he learned about PLI interest rates. He secured a personal loan to meet his financial needs by getting a loan against his policy. He is now more assured of his decision to buy a life insurance policy that not only protects his dear ones but also helps in times of need.
So, what is the cost of borrowing against your PLI policy? Does this interest rate make sense financially, and what factors influence it? Being aware of these details can really help when making a decision.
Let's study every detail in the article that follows.
What Is Postal Life Insurance?
Introduced in the year 1884, Postal Life Insurance (PLI) is a life insurance program supported by the Government of India. It is overseen by the Department of Posts and is renowned for its accessibility, affordability, and remarkable returns.
Endowment Assurance, Whole Life Assurance, Anticipated Endowment Assurance, Joint Life Assurance, Convertible Whole Life Assurance, and a policy especially for children are among the six distinct insurance plan types that PLI offers.
This scheme is open to professionals, government employees, and semi-government employees. It also provides extra benefits, such as guaranteed# returns and tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of 1961. With the option to avail of loans against the policy, PLI promises financial security for dependents in the event of the insured's untimely death.
What Is The Postal Life Insurance Interest Rate?
The interest rate is especially important when taking out a loan against your Postal Life Insurance (PLI) policy. The PLI interest rate is the percentage applied to every loan taken out with a Postal Life Insurance policy as collateral.
In simple terms, you will be responsible for repaying the loan amount along with applicable interest if you choose to borrow money against your PLI policy. The Indian government sets this variable interest rate, which is subject to change based on the current economic conditions.
It's vital to note that several PLI policies, like Whole Life, Convertible Whole Life, Endowment, and Joint Life Assurance, can be held for at least a set amount of time, say 3 to 4 years, before being considered for a loan.
Eligibility Conditions For Availing Of A Loan Under The PLI Scheme
Under certain circumstances, Postal Life Insurance (PLI) provides credit facilities; however, let's first analyse the eligibility requirements. Employees of the Central and State Governments, the Defence and Paramilitary Services, Public Sector Undertakings, Banks, and Educational Institutions are all covered by the PLI schemes. Professionals from local organisations and bodies, including physicians, engineers, chartered accountants, MBAs, and solicitors, can also benefit. Employees of companies listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) or National Stock Exchange (NSE) are qualified.
Now, there are some details you should be aware of while taking out a loan. Endowment Assurance and Joint Life Assurance plans offer loan availability after three years, whilst Whole Life Assurance and Convertible Whole Life Assurance policies are restricted to getting loans after four policy years. However, this loan facility is not available under plans such as Children Policy and Anticipated Endowment Assurance.
In order to qualify for a loan, your insurance needs to be active and all premiums settled in full. You can borrow up to 90% of the surrender value, with the loan amount often being a set percentage of that amount. Just remember that you can take out loans for a minimum of Rs. 1,000.
Also, the PLI program does not restrict you to a single loan. If it meets the terms, circumstances, and discretion of the insurer, more than one loan can be taken up.
What Are The Advantages Of Availing A Loan Under The PLI Scheme?
Choosing a loan through the Postal Life Insurance (PLI) program has many advantages, one of which is that the PLI interest rates are usually competitive and often cheaper than those of other lending options. For individuals looking for an affordable loan, this makes it a desirable option.
Another benefit is the simplicity of the procedure. Unlike many other loans, PLI loans require significantly less thorough documentation, which results in fewer difficulties and a more seamless process overall. The loan can be executed really quickly once the eligibility requirements are met, making it a great choice for tackling unexpected expenses.
Here, flexibility is also a key feature. You have the freedom to handle your finances without any extra stress and repay the loan during the remaining term of your policy. Even better, as long as the policy is active, life insurance coverage continues uninterrupted.
Summing Up,
With its affordable PLI interest rates, Postal Life Insurance ensures manageable borrowing costs, providing financial flexibility when needed. While PLI protects your investments, understanding PLI interest rates can help you unlock valuable long-term advantages, much like a trusted partner accompanying you through your financial journey.