Gold Loan Tips: 3 Repayment Tricks That Can Save You A Fortune

Last Updated:November 15, 2025, 11:42 IST

Three repayment choices, one crucial decision — and the difference could cost you lakhs. Pick wisely, and a gold loan becomes far lighter on both your mind and your pocket

Gold loans may be easy to take, but they are not always easy to repay, and a small mistake can cost borrowers thousands, even lakhs, in extra interest. Most people focus only on the 9-10 per cent interest rate, unaware that the real cost depends entirely on the repayment method they choose.

One wrong decision can make a cheap loan expensive; the right one can make it far more affordable.

According to an Economic Times report, Jijith Raj, Business Head at Indel Money, has explained three loan repayment methods and who each of them is best suited for.

1. Regular EMI

In this method, you pay a fixed instalment every month, which includes both principal and interest. As the months pass, the principal reduces, and the total interest you pay is the lowest among the three options.

This method is ideal for people who earn a regular monthly income like salaried employees, pensioners, or those receiving steady rental income. Setting up an auto-debit ensures discipline.

However, if you miss even a single EMI, the bank may quickly classify your account as an SMA and report it to the credit bureau, which can lower your CIBIL score.

2. Bullet Repayment

This is the option most people prefer because it gives them the highest level of flexibility. You may pay nothing or only the interest during the loan period, and then clear the entire principal and remaining interest in one go on the final day. This method works well if you are certain that you will receive a large sum within 6-12 months, such as from selling property, an FD maturing, or a sizeable business payment.

But the risk is high: if you are unable to arrange the lump sum by the due date, the interest balloons because the full principal remains unpaid.

Moreover, 45 days after the loan period ends, the bank can begin the process of auctioning your gold, which catches many borrowers off-guard.

3. Overdraft Facility

This option may appear slightly more expensive upfront, but it is perfect for those with irregular income like freelancers, small shop owners, agents who work on commission, consultants, and similar professions.

The bank sanctions a limit (for example, Rs 10 lakh), and you pay interest only on the amount you actually withdraw, not on the entire limit. When you receive money, you can deposit it back instantly, and your interest reduces immediately. You can withdraw and deposit as many times as you wish.

If you need a top-up, it is usually granted without closing the existing loan. Although the interest rate might be a bit higher, the overall cost remains low because your outstanding balance typically stays small.

Which Method Saves The Most?

• If your income is steady, choose EMI as it results in the lowest interest outflow.
• If you are expecting a lump sum, bullet repayment can work but it is risky.
• If your income is irregular, opt for the overdraft facility, which keeps your interest under control.

A crucial tip: If you have chosen the wrong repayment scheme earlier and a major portion of your loan tenure still remains, close the old loan and take a new loan against the same gold under a better scheme.

Most companies do not charge foreclosure fees, but always confirm this before proceeding.

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