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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9752 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2025

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - May 18, 2025
Money

Dear sir, I am 27 year old with a 3 lakhs personal loan emi timely ni ja pa rhi h aur gold loan bhi h 1.2lakh h my monthly income 35000how to done it

Ans: You are trying your best. That’s a good start.
Your situation is tough. But not impossible.
A small change today can help big tomorrow.

You are 27 years old.
You are earning Rs. 35,000 per month.
You have a personal loan of Rs. 3 lakhs.
You also have a gold loan of Rs. 1.2 lakhs.
Your EMI is not going properly.

Let us now assess your full financial life.
Let us try to find the best and practical solution.
A full 360-degree review is given below.

Understand the Real Picture

Personal loan EMI is not affordable now.

Gold loan is adding more pressure.

Monthly income is Rs. 35,000. But expenses are unknown.

No clarity about other savings or liabilities.

Let us assume Rs. 10,000 is for basic living.

Balance Rs. 25,000 is not enough for two loans.

This is a debt trap stage. Need immediate plan.

Taking more loan is not a solution.

Your financial life must be stabilised first.

It can be done step-by-step, patiently.

Start with Budget Review

Track all expenses for one month.

Find unnecessary or avoidable costs.

Limit online food orders, OTT, travel, and lifestyle spends.

Create a written monthly budget.

Follow the budget strictly for 6 months.

Bring expenses down to minimum.

Target monthly savings of Rs. 10,000 to 12,000 minimum.

Keep a small notebook or app to monitor it daily.

Address the Gold Loan First

Gold loan usually has high interest.

It is a secured loan. Gold can be auctioned.

Try to close gold loan in 4 to 6 months.

Use all possible savings to repay this one first.

If possible, take a small help from family to close gold loan.

Once gold is released, avoid re-pledging it.

This step gives you mental relief.

Talk to the Bank for Personal Loan Restructure

Approach the bank directly.

Request to restructure the EMI.

Ask for longer tenure or reduced EMI.

It is better than defaulting EMI.

Banks do offer one-time solutions sometimes.

Keep all records of communication.

Do not ignore EMI delay calls.

Be proactive and transparent with bank.

Avoid Taking Any New Loan Now

Do not take credit card loans.

Avoid app-based loans with high interest.

Do not take hand loans with monthly interest.

It will worsen your situation.

Focus on repayment, not replacement of loans.

Start Emergency Fund Slowly

Once gold loan is closed, build an emergency fund.

Keep 2 to 3 months income in savings.

This avoids future loan needs.

Even Rs. 1,000 saved per month is good.

Emergency fund gives you peace.

Assess Your Career and Income Options

Check if income can be increased.

Take weekend freelance or part-time job.

Learn a small new skill for better salary.

Many free online courses are there.

Try for a higher-paying job also.

Small income boost can ease repayment.

Protect Your Health First

If you don’t have health insurance, buy now.

Even low-cost Rs. 5 lakh cover is useful.

Medical emergency can push you back to more loans.

Check employer coverage also.

Avoid Insurance-Cum-Investment Plans

If you hold any ULIP, endowment, or LIC money-back, stop it.

Surrender it and take term insurance only.

Invest the surrendered money into good mutual funds.

But only after clearing loans.

Insurance is for protection, not investment.

When You Start Investing Later

Start SIP in mutual funds through Certified Financial Planner.

Prefer regular funds via MFD, not direct funds.

Direct funds do not provide advice or support.

CFP gives personalised service and long-term review.

Regular funds give long-term guidance and hand-holding.

Stay Away From Index Funds

Index funds do not beat market returns.

They have no active fund manager.

They follow market blindly.

They don’t protect you in down markets.

Actively managed funds give better returns with lower risk.

Avoid Real Estate Investment

Real estate needs big capital.

It has high maintenance and low liquidity.

It is not for your stage now.

Focus on clearing loans and creating liquidity.

Avoid Annuities

Annuities lock your money for long.

Returns are low and taxable.

Not suitable for your young age.

Keep money flexible and growing.

Track Your Progress Every Month

Review your budget monthly.

Check if loan balances are going down.

Check if your savings are improving.

Make a small celebration for each milestone.

Stay motivated throughout the journey.

Build a Financial Mindset

Talk about money openly with family.

Read one finance article every week.

Stay away from people who promote quick money.

Be patient and consistent.

Long-term thinking gives stability.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner

Once loan stress is reduced, meet a CFP.

He will plan your future steps.

He will guide on savings, insurance, retirement.

CFP is trained to handle all situations.

Choose one with a good track record.

Final Insights

First 12 months will be hard. But you can manage.

Focus on one step at a time.

Close gold loan first.

Then restructure personal loan.

Stick to a budget without fail.

Start savings slowly.

Don’t take fresh loans.

Focus on income growth.

Don’t mix insurance with investment.

Choose mutual funds through CFP only.

Direct or index funds are not for your situation.

You are still young. A solid plan can help you.

One good decision today can change your tomorrow.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9752 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 22, 2024

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Money
Hi sir i have the loan of 16 lac and income of 54k with monthly emi of 40k how to mangae all???
Ans: Managing a high EMI on a modest income can be challenging. Your current loan of ?16 lakhs with an EMI of ?40,000 on a ?54,000 income requires careful financial planning. Here’s how to manage your finances effectively.

Understanding Your Financial Situation
Income and Expenses
Your monthly income is ?54,000, with an EMI of ?40,000. This leaves you with ?14,000 for all other expenses. This tight margin necessitates a strategic approach.

Loan Details
A loan of ?16 lakhs with a high EMI consumes a significant portion of your income. Evaluating options to reduce the EMI can provide some relief.

Steps to Manage Your Loan and Finances
Budgeting
Track Expenses
Start by tracking all your expenses. Identify areas where you can cut costs. Every rupee saved can help ease your financial burden.

Create a Monthly Budget
Create a detailed budget. Prioritize essential expenses like food, utilities, and transport. Allocate a portion of your income towards savings, even if it's small.

Reducing EMI Burden
Loan Restructuring
Consider restructuring your loan. Extending the loan tenure can reduce the EMI, though it might increase the total interest paid.

Negotiating with Lenders
Talk to your lender about reducing the interest rate. Even a slight reduction can lower your EMI. Lenders may offer better terms based on your repayment history.

Additional Income Sources
Part-Time Jobs
Explore opportunities for part-time work or freelance jobs. This additional income can help cover expenses and reduce reliance on loans.

Monetize Skills
If you have specific skills or hobbies, consider monetizing them. Teaching, consulting, or online gigs can provide extra income.

Managing Expenses
Reduce Non-Essential Spending
Cut down on non-essential expenses like dining out, subscriptions, and luxury items. Focus on saving and reducing debt.

Use Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Opt for budget-friendly alternatives for daily needs. Buying in bulk, using discounts, and choosing generic brands can save money.

Emergency Fund
Building an Emergency Fund
Allocate a small portion of your income to build an emergency fund. This fund can cover unexpected expenses without impacting your EMI payments.

Utilizing Existing Savings
If you have existing savings, consider using a portion to pay down the loan. Reducing the principal can lower your EMI.

Professional Financial Advice
Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner. They can provide tailored solutions to manage your loan and improve your financial health.

Debt Management Programs
Consider enrolling in a debt management program. These programs can negotiate better terms with lenders and provide structured repayment plans.

Investment Strategies
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
Consider starting a SIP in a mutual fund. Even a small investment can grow over time and provide financial stability.

Benefits of Regular Mutual Funds
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials offers guidance and personalized advice, optimizing your investments.

Avoid Direct Mutual Funds
Direct mutual funds have lower expense ratios but lack advisory services. Regular funds through an MFD provide support and better decision-making.

Financial Discipline
Regular Review
Regularly review your financial situation. Adjust your budget and repayment strategy based on your progress and changes in circumstances.

Set Financial Goals
Set short-term and long-term financial goals. Having clear objectives can motivate you to save and manage your expenses better.

Stress Management
Stay Positive
Financial stress can be overwhelming. Stay positive and focused on your goals. Small steps can lead to significant improvements over time.

Seek Support
Talk to family and friends for support. They can provide emotional backing and sometimes practical advice or assistance.

Conclusion
Managing a high EMI on a modest income is challenging but achievable with careful planning. By budgeting wisely, reducing expenses, seeking additional income, and consulting a Certified Financial Planner, you can navigate this period successfully. Regularly review your financial situation and adjust your strategies as needed to ensure long-term stability and peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9752 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 16, 2025
Money
Dear sir, i have a personal loan of 28 lacs with emi of 70k, i hv no MF or other saving. I have a salary of 1.5 lac/month. How can i pay this loan as soon as possible..
Ans: You are earning Rs. 1.5 lakh per month. You are paying Rs. 70,000 as EMI. You have no savings or mutual funds. You are carrying a large personal loan of Rs. 28 lakhs. You are worried and want to close this loan soon. You are not alone. Many professionals go through this phase.

You are earning well. That’s your biggest strength now. You want a clear plan. That’s a very good decision. Let us now evaluate your situation in detail. Let’s move towards a solution, step by step.

Understanding Your Present Cash Flow
Your salary is Rs. 1,50,000 per month.

Your EMI is Rs. 70,000 per month. That is nearly 47% of your income.

You have no other EMIs or savings at this moment.

You are using the rest of Rs. 80,000 for your expenses.

You want to become loan-free as early as possible.

This intention is very good. Stay consistent with that.

Step 1: Evaluate and Trim Monthly Expenses
Write down every single monthly expense.

Split into essentials and non-essentials.

Try to reduce expenses by 20–30%.

Cancel unwanted subscriptions, upgrades, or luxuries.

Limit outings, dining, gadgets, and impulsive spends.

If you are living alone, shift to a modest house.

If you are supporting family, discuss financial goals together.

Try to save Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 more each month.

Your goal is to free up maximum cash flow.

Step 2: Create an Emergency Reserve
Loan EMI is high. So, you must plan for emergencies.

Keep 2 months’ worth of EMI and basic expenses aside.

That means around Rs. 2 lakh in savings account or liquid fund.

Do not touch this amount unless urgent.

It will protect your credit score during job loss or illness.

Build it slowly over 6–8 months.

Keep it parked separately, not mixed with other expenses.

Step 3: Prioritise Loan Repayment
Your main goal is to repay the Rs. 28 lakh loan quickly.

Use every extra rupee for part-payment.

Contact your bank to know prepayment terms.

Ask if there are charges for extra payments.

Try to part-pay every 6 months.

Even Rs. 1 lakh every 6 months can reduce tenure.

Avoid extending the tenure for short-term relief.

Focus on reducing principal, not EMI amount.

Never miss EMI. It affects credit and future loan options.

Step 4: Avoid Taking Any New Loan
Do not apply for car, gadget, or holiday loans.

Say no to top-up on personal loans.

Do not buy items on credit cards or EMI offers.

Personal loan is already a costly loan.

Your focus should remain on clearing it, not adding to it.

Step 5: Protect Yourself With Term Insurance
In case of sudden death, the burden shifts to family.

Take a pure term insurance cover of Rs. 1 crore.

Premium is low if taken at a younger age.

It will not return money but gives protection.

Avoid any endowment or return-based insurance now.

Keep insurance and investment separate always.

Step 6: Don’t Invest While Repaying Loan? No.
Many think they must repay the loan fully before investing.

But you are still young. Time is on your side.

Wealth creation also needs early action.

So, start small SIPs while repaying loan.

Begin with Rs. 3,000–5,000 per month if possible.

Gradually increase SIP with every increment or bonus.

Don’t wait for a “perfect time” to invest.

Discipline matters more than timing.

Step 7: Avoid Direct Mutual Fund Investing
Some people invest directly without guidance.

Direct plans have no human advisor.

Mistakes and panic are more likely without support.

Performance tracking, rebalancing, goal alignment is missing.

It may look cheaper, but it costs more in long term.

Better to invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP.

Regular plans give ongoing service and portfolio control.

That’s how you stay committed and consistent.

Step 8: Why Not Index Funds?
Index funds follow stock index without human skill.

They copy the market. They don’t beat it.

They lack flexibility during market crashes.

They can’t avoid bad stocks in index.

You need alpha, not average returns.

Actively managed funds offer better growth options.

Fund managers analyse and select best stocks actively.

This approach fits your goal better.

Step 9: Create a Bonus Utilisation Strategy
Use your annual bonus wisely.

Keep 10% for personal use.

Use 40% for loan part-payment.

Use 30% for emergency fund building.

Use 20% for starting or increasing investments.

This strategy balances loan and wealth building.

Step 10: Build Financial Habits
Set monthly bank auto-debit for SIP and savings.

Track spending weekly using a mobile app.

Read about financial awareness 15 minutes weekly.

Review your money goals every 3 months.

Reward yourself when you stay consistent.

Share progress with family or trusted friend.

Step 11: Stop All High-Interest Debt
If you are using credit cards, pay full amount monthly.

Never roll over or pay minimum due only.

Credit card interest is higher than personal loan.

Stop using credit card till loan is reduced.

Avoid payday loans, buy-now-pay-later, or fast cash apps.

Step 12: Plan For Next 3 Years
In next 3 years, aim to reduce 40–50% of loan.

Start investing alongside debt repayment.

Slowly reduce lifestyle expenses.

Make yearly part-payments without fail.

Increase income through part-time consulting or freelancing.

Even Rs. 10,000 extra income helps in early closure.

Step 13: Track Credit Score and Loan Behaviour
Download credit report every 6 months.

Keep your score above 750 always.

Never delay EMI even by 1 day.

Do not apply for too many loans or credit cards.

A healthy score keeps your options open in future.

Step 14: Avoid Mixing Insurance and Investment
Do not buy ULIPs, endowment or money-back plans.

These give low returns, long lock-ins, and poor liquidity.

Focus on mutual funds for wealth building.

Keep term insurance for protection.

Do not fall for “tax-saving + insurance” traps.

Step 15: Choose Right Mutual Fund Strategy
Select 2–3 equity mutual funds with growth track record.

Begin SIP with small amount like Rs. 3,000–5,000.

Choose regular plans via MFD with CFP credential.

Review performance yearly.

Invest for long term, not for short term gains.

Don’t stop SIP during market crash. Add more if possible.

Step 16: Discipline and Patience Are Game Changers
Becoming debt-free takes time and patience.

Avoid shortcuts or emotional financial decisions.

Be consistent with part-payments and SIPs.

Track your money monthly.

Reward yourself for milestones achieved.

Celebrate progress without spending more.

Finally
You are earning well. That is your best asset now.

Your loan is high. But it can be reduced with discipline.

You need a plan. You now have it.

Cut expenses. Start saving. Make regular part-payments.

Also begin investing. Even with small amount.

Don’t delay building wealth.

Don’t wait till loan is over.

Take term cover. Avoid credit traps.

Invest through mutual funds with CFP and MFD.

Avoid index funds. Avoid direct plans.

Stay on track. Review progress yearly.

You will win over time. You have already taken the first step.

Keep walking. Stay focused. Stay steady.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9752 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 10, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir, I have 36 lac of personal loan (70k/ month) and 30 lac of personal loan (30k/ month EMI) . My salary is 1.30 lac and I have MF 9 lac Please advise
Ans: Present Situation Overview

You shared clear numbers. Thank you for transparency.

Two personal loans equal Rs 66 lakh total.

Monthly EMIs sum to Rs 1 lakh.

Net salary is Rs 1.30 lakh each month.

Liquid mutual funds stand at Rs 9 lakh.

Disposable income after EMIs is near Rs 30,000.

High debt takes big salary share.

Cash?flow stress looks serious yet manageable with discipline.

Cash Flow Stress Test

Work out detailed monthly budget right now.

Track every rupee for three months.

Split costs into must?have and good?to?have.

Must?have list: rent, food, utilities, medicines, premiums.

Good?to?have list: eating out, new gadgets, holidays, gifting.

Aim to cap non?essential spends below Rs 5,000 monthly.

Redirect saved cash toward emergency fund first.

Bring family on board early.

Use free budgeting apps or simple notebooks.

Review progress each Sunday night.

Risk Protection Shield

Check life cover against outstanding loans.

Term insurance cover should beat loan size plus goals.

If not sufficient, buy extra term cover today.

Premium small versus peace of mind.

Maintain existing health insurance without lapses.

Add personal accident cover if missing.

Insurance cost fits inside essential budget.

Protection first; growth later.

Emergency Reserve Strategy

Absence of cushion forces costly borrowings.

Target four months expense buffer soon.

Your expense means Rs 1.6 lakh reserve.

Use liquid or ultra?short debt funds for reserve.

Fund reserve by channeling yearly bonus, gifts, tax refunds.

Pause new risky investments until buffer ready.

Keep reserve only for true emergencies.

Refill reserve quickly after use.

Debt Reduction Roadmap

Personal loans carry high rates, often 13%–20%.

Reducing them gives guaranteed risk?free return.

Step one: speak with banks on rate reduction.

Check if balance transfer offers lower rates.

Consolidate both loans into one secured loan if possible.

Use salary overdraft or top?up mortgage if existing property.

Negotiate longer tenure to cut EMI pressure initially.

Target paying extra principal once cash flow eases.

Any cashback, bonus, side income should attack principal.

Do not stop EMIs under any condition.

Automate EMI payments to avoid penalties.

Avoid additional consumer loans until debts clear.

Mutual Fund Portfolio Review

Rs 9 lakh can support debt strategy.

First, confirm fund type and exit load terms.

Check if gains exist above Rs 1.25 lakh limit yearly.

Equity fund LTCG above this attracts 12.5% tax.

Short?term equity gains taxed flat 20%.

Debt fund gains taxed by your slab.

Redemption may still save money if loan rate high.

Consider partial redemption keeping emergency fund intact.

Keep at least Rs 1.6 lakh reserve after redemption.

Shift remaining MF to goal?based SIPs later.

Avoid abrupt full exit; plan phased redemption.

Income Enhancement Ideas

Explore upskilling for salary hike.

Short courses in data, cloud, or AI pay quickly.

Check freelancing platforms for weekend gigs.

Turn hobbies into small income streams online.

Negotiate yearly appraisal with documented achievements.

Seek relocation allowance or hardship allowance if applicable.

Check employee tax?free benefits like meal cards.

Use company stock purchase plans wisely.

Side income can go straight toward loan prepayment.

Expense Management Tactics

Audit subscriptions: music, OTT, gym, apps.

Cancel unused ones now.

Cook meals weekdays; limit restaurants to birthdays.

Share rides or use metro for daily travel.

Shop groceries online under discount codes.

Buy generic medicines when doctor allows.

Plan yearly festivals with set budget envelopes.

Gift handmade items, saving cash and adding warmth.

Delay phone upgrades until loans finish.

Review electricity plan; choose lower slab tariff.

Tax Efficiency Plan

Max out EPF and VPF contributions if employer allows.

Use Section 80C with term insurance premium, EPF, PPF.

Avoid locking money in high?cost insurance?investment mixes.

Use Section 80D for health insurance premium deduction.

Claim house rent allowance by collecting rent receipts.

Submit tax proofs timely to payroll team.

Adjust VPF rate depending on liquidity needs.

Maintain digital file of all tax papers.

Any tax refund should reduce loan principal immediately.

Stay aware of future tax rule changes yearly.

Behavioural Guardrails

Build monthly habit of paying yourself first.

Automate transfer to reserve on salary day.

Avoid comparing lifestyle with peers on social media.

Celebrate small wins, like first extra Rs 50,000 principal paid.

Use visual tracker on fridge for loan balance.

Practice gratitude to keep spending urges low.

Revisit goals sheet each quarter with partner.

Keep meeting with Certified Financial Planner yearly.

Family Goal Alignment

Discuss goals openly with spouse or parents.

Explain debt burden and needed sacrifices.

Assign responsibilities: spouse tracks groceries; you track utilities.

Set family No?Spend weekend challenge each month.

Involve children in saving games if applicable.

Celebrate debt milestones with simple home treats.

Family unity speeds journey and lowers stress.

Monitoring and Review Schedule

End of each month: compare budget versus actual.

End of each quarter: calculate outstanding loan balances.

Mid?year: review insurance adequacy.

Year?end: plan tax saving for next year early.

Annual meeting with Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust plan for salary raises or life events.

Update emergency fund target for inflation yearly.

Keep all financial documents scanned and cloud?stored.

Career Continuity Planning

Life uncertainty can harm loan servicing badly.

Build professional network actively on LinkedIn.

Attend industry events or webinars each quarter.

Keep updated resume ready always.

Learn new tools relevant to your field yearly.

Consider alternate career path if automation threatens role.

Secure corporate medical cover for family even when job switches.

Seek roles offering pay plus variable bonus.

Variable bonus can accelerate debt payoff.

Credit Score Maintenance

Timely EMI boosts credit score each month.

Keep credit card utilisation under 30% limit.

Pay credit card bill in full before due date.

Check credit report twice a year for errors.

Dispute any wrong entry immediately online.

Good score reduces future loan interest burden.

Long Term Investment Re?Start

Once loans fall below Rs 20 lakh, restart SIP.

Begin with Rs 5,000 monthly into diversified equity funds.

Increase SIP 10% yearly with raises.

Avoid sector funds or thematic fads.

Choose regular plans through MFD with CFP qualification.

MFD service fee covers hand?holding and paperwork.

Regular plan cost is small versus guidance benefits.

Direct funds lack timely alerts and emotional support.

MFD can assist with tax?optimal redemption scheduling.

Keep SIP aligned with specific future goals.

Goal Setting Framework

Short term goal: build Rs 1.6 lakh reserve in six months.

Medium term goal: clear smaller loan in three years.

Long term goal: clear second loan in five years.

Post debt goal: build retirement corpus steadily.

Write goals on paper and review monthly.

Attach target date and reason beside each goal.

Strong reasons push consistent actions.

Psychological Well?being

Debt can cause anxiety and sleep issues.

Practise daily 10?minute meditation morning and night.

Exercise thrice a week for endorphin boost.

Talk with spouse or friend when stress peaks.

Avoid splitting personal relationships due to money strain.

Seek professional counsellor if anxiety persists.

Child Education Preparation

If you have kids, open Sukanya or PPF early.

Small monthly deposits suffice now.

Larger funding resumes after loans settle.

Keep separate account name for each child.

Do not dip into child fund for adult expenses.

Possible Windfall Handling

You may receive arrears, incentives, or inheritance.

Allocate 50% of windfall to loan prepayment.

Allocate 30% to emergency fund top?up.

Allocate 20% for small family celebration.

This keeps morale high without harming plan.

Digital Safety Steps

Use strong passwords and two?factor login for bank apps.

Never share OTPs on calls.

Update phone security patches regularly.

Phishing loss now hurts loan plan severely.

Checklist for Immediate Action

Prepare complete household budget this weekend.

Organise insurance papers and nominee details.

Contact loan officers Monday seeking rate reduction.

Evaluate partial MF redemption for debt cut.

Start separate emergency fund account now.

Schedule Certified Financial Planner meeting within two weeks.

Set calendar reminders for review dates yearly.

Finally

You already took brave step by seeking help.

High debt looks heavy but not unstoppable.

Discipline, planning, and family support can win.

Build protection and reserve before tackling principal.

Prepay loans with every extra rupee earned.

Revive investments after debt burden eases.

Stay focus on goals, review, and adapt.

Your future self will enjoy debt?free mornings soon.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9752 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 10, 2025
Money
I am 50 yrs old earn only 25000, Gold loan of 300000 emi 3000, personal loan of 65000 emi 6000, 8 month remaining, No bank balance,No MF. What I do to get rid of loan burden.
Ans: You are already 50 years old. You earn Rs. 25,000 per month.

You have two loans—gold loan and personal loan.

You are struggling because income is low and expenses are high.

But still, there is a clear way forward.

You can come out of this loan stress step by step.

Let me help you with a complete 360-degree solution.

Each step is simple and practical.

Let us start.

Understanding Your Current Financial Picture
Monthly income: Rs. 25,000

Gold loan: Rs. 3 lakh with EMI Rs. 3,000/month

Personal loan: Rs. 65,000 with EMI Rs. 6,000/month

Total EMI: Rs. 9,000 per month

EMI is 36% of your income

No bank balance, no emergency fund, no mutual fund savings

Financial stress is high

But the personal loan will close in 8 months

That is a good start

Let’s plan step by step to reduce your loan burden and rebuild your finances

Step-by-Step Loan Burden Reduction Plan
Step 1: Control Monthly Expenses Strictly
First, reduce all non-essential expenses

Food, transport, mobile, electricity—all must be tightly controlled

Aim to live within Rs. 12,000–14,000 per month

Avoid shopping, eating out, or giving money to others

Track every rupee using a small diary or mobile app

Try to create Rs. 2,000–4,000 monthly surplus from budget

Step 2: Do Not Miss EMI Payments
Always pay EMIs on time

Missing EMI will hurt your credit score

It will also increase penalty and interest burden

Pay personal loan EMI first

Because it will close in just 8 months

After that, you will get Rs. 6,000/month as relief

Step 3: Do Not Take Any New Loan
Say NO to any new gold loan, personal loan or credit card

Do not borrow from neighbours or local lenders

Focus only on repaying what you already owe

Step 4: Plan for Faster Gold Loan Repayment After 8 Months
After personal loan closes, your monthly EMI burden drops to Rs. 3,000

You will have extra Rs. 6,000 each month

Use that full Rs. 6,000 to repay gold loan faster

Try to pay more than EMI if possible

Once gold loan closes, all your EMIs are over

Then full Rs. 9,000 monthly becomes free for savings

Step 5: Start Building Emergency Fund Slowly
Once all EMIs are done, first create emergency savings

Keep Rs. 10,000–15,000 in bank or savings account

This will help if any health issue or income break comes

Without emergency fund, loan cycle will repeat

Step 6: Avoid Gold Loans in Future
Gold loans look easy but can trap you in high interest

Try to avoid pledging gold again unless emergency

Build a habit of saving regularly

Even small savings of Rs. 1,000–2,000 per month help in future

Step 7: Look for Extra Income Sources
Your income is low. So try to increase it

Look for part-time evening job, weekend work or side business

You can also try small freelancing or tuition work

Even extra Rs. 2,000–3,000 monthly will help loan repayment

Use extra income only to reduce debt or build savings

Step 8: Build Monthly Savings Once Loans Are Closed
After 14–15 months, your EMIs will end

You must start SIP in mutual funds via Certified Financial Planner

Start even with Rs. 1,000–2,000 per month

Choose regular plans through MFD + CFP for better guidance

Over time, you can increase SIP slowly

This will create long-term wealth and reduce future money stress

Step 9: Protect Yourself with Insurance
Health issues can drain money fast

Try to take a low-cost health insurance plan if not already covered

If you have family, a basic term insurance is also important

This will protect them from loan burden if something happens to you

Step 10: Mentally Prepare for a 2-Year Turnaround
You cannot remove this burden overnight

But in 2 years, you can become debt-free and stable

Follow this plan strictly

Do not get discouraged

Stay focused, stay disciplined

Many people like you have done it

You can also come out stronger

What You Should Not Do Now
Do not invest in ULIPs or any insurance + investment product

Do not put money in chit funds or risky schemes

Do not lend money to others even if they promise return

Do not fall for any “quick loan clearance” agencies

Do not buy land, gold or gadgets on EMI

Do not quit job unless new one is ready

What You Must Do Regularly
Track income and expenses every week

Avoid unnecessary travel or spending

Keep gold safe at home after gold loan is cleared

Keep bank balance of at least Rs. 10,000 always

Build habit of saving even Rs. 100 daily

Teach family to support and save together

Stay motivated by thinking of debt-free future

Finally
Right now you are under financial pressure

But the situation is temporary

With tight spending, no new loans, and better income focus

You will become debt-free in 14–15 months

After that, you can build savings and plan for future goals

Mutual fund SIPs are the best long-term tool to grow wealth

Use help from a Certified Financial Planner to guide your savings

Avoid ULIPs, endowment, and poor insurance schemes

Once stable, build a financial plan for retirement in the next 8–10 years

Even if you start late, steady action gives results

Your loan burden will reduce soon—keep strong focus and move step by step

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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