Car Loan Question: Should I pay through lump sum or salary deduction?

Ans: Your approach to financial planning is commendable. Managing debt wisely ensures better financial stability. Let’s evaluate whether repaying the car loan early is beneficial or if continuing EMIs is the right choice.

1. Understanding the Loan Cost
Your car loan is Rs 12 lakhs for 7 years.

EMI deduction from salary is Rs 21,900 per month.

The total interest paid over time depends on the loan’s interest rate.

Car loans usually have higher interest rates than secured loans.

Vehicles depreciate fast, reducing resale value over time.

Paying more interest on a depreciating asset is not ideal.

2. Evaluating Mutual Fund Redemption
Mutual funds offer higher returns over a long period.

Withdrawing now may affect your long-term wealth creation.

Equity mutual funds are volatile in the short term.

Premature withdrawal may lead to capital gains tax.

Selling now could lead to missing future market growth.

The impact of taxes must be considered before withdrawing.

3. Impact of Early Loan Repayment
Prepaying the loan saves on future interest.

A lump sum payment reduces financial stress.

You free up Rs 21,900 per month for other investments.

No EMI improves cash flow for savings and expenses.

Some banks charge prepayment penalties. Check your loan terms.

4. When to Consider Paying Off the Loan?
If your mutual fund gains exceed the loan’s interest rate.

If the car loan’s remaining tenure is long.

If you want to reduce financial obligations quickly.

If you are not dependent on the mutual fund for future goals.

If your overall investments are stable after the withdrawal.

5. When to Continue with EMIs?
If your mutual fund is growing at a higher rate than the loan interest.

If withdrawing now impacts your long-term financial goals.

If you have sufficient cash flow to handle EMIs comfortably.

If loan prepayment affects liquidity for emergencies.

If the interest paid is manageable without much financial burden.

6. Tax Considerations on Mutual Fund Withdrawal
Equity mutual fund gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual fund gains taxed as per your income slab.

Redeeming mutual funds may reduce tax efficiency.

7. Balanced Approach for Optimal Benefits
Partial prepayment reduces loan tenure without depleting mutual funds.

Paying off a portion ensures lower EMIs.

Continuing EMIs while investing extra savings keeps wealth growing.

Evaluating liquidity needs before withdrawing is crucial.

Keeping an emergency fund before any financial decision is advisable.

Finally
Your decision should align with your financial stability, goals, and investment growth. If your mutual fund portfolio is performing well, it may be better to let it grow. However, if loan interest is high, partial or full repayment can be considered. A balanced approach ensures financial security while maximizing returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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