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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 20, 2024

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
Yogesh Question by Yogesh on Nov 16, 2024Hindi
Money

Hello sir. My age is 41 . I have taken a different loan stage wise as need. My salary is 72000 and loan+credit card bill is around 68000 so it is very difficult to manage it. I have home loan of 18000 emi Personal loan emi 18800 pending emi 50 Personal loan EMI 11500 pending emi 24 Personal loan EMI - 4000 pending emi 30 Two wheeler loan EMI 3400 pending emi 12 Credit card due is 100000 I have buy 1 BHK flat on 4 th floor before 11 year as it market value remain same so I think to sell out for clear some due So it is advisable or not. Is any bank/institute/financial support is in market to provide a single loan to clear all your different loan n we need to clear only one EMI ???

Ans: Your current financial situation involves high debt obligations relative to your income. Managing these efficiently is crucial to improve cash flow and financial stability. Let us address the situation step-by-step and evaluate your options for reducing debt stress.

Current Financial Snapshot
Income: Rs 72,000 per month.

EMI Obligations: Rs 68,000 monthly across home, personal, and two-wheeler loans.

Credit Card Debt: Rs 1,00,000 outstanding balance.

Assets: A 1 BHK flat purchased 11 years ago, with little to no appreciation.

Challenges in Your Financial Scenario
High Debt-to-Income Ratio: A significant portion of your income goes towards EMIs.

Multiple Loans: Managing several EMIs increases stress and creates inefficiency.

Flat’s Value Stagnation: Limited appreciation in your flat reduces its utility as an investment.

Assessing the Sale of Your Flat
Potential Benefits
Clearing Debt: Selling the flat can reduce or eliminate some debts.

Cash Flow Relief: Reduced EMIs can provide more breathing room for monthly expenses.

Simplification: With fewer loans, managing your finances becomes easier.

Potential Risks
Loss of Asset: Selling the flat reduces your property portfolio.

Market Conditions: Stagnant market value may not yield significant proceeds.

Rent Costs: If you sell, you may need to spend on rent, impacting cash flow.

Considerations Before Selling
Assess the flat’s current market value and selling potential.

Calculate the total debt you can clear with the sale proceeds.

Evaluate the impact on future living arrangements and rental costs.

Exploring Debt Consolidation
Single Loan to Replace Multiple Loans
Many banks and NBFCs offer debt consolidation loans.

A single loan replaces all your current debts.

You pay only one EMI, making it easier to manage finances.

Benefits of Debt Consolidation
Lower EMI: Consolidation can reduce overall EMI through extended tenure.

Reduced Interest Rates: Personal loans and credit cards have high interest rates. A consolidated loan may offer lower rates.

Simplified Management: Fewer payment schedules reduce the risk of missed EMIs.

Key Considerations
Evaluate the total cost, including processing fees and interest.

Check your eligibility and credit score for better loan terms.

Avoid taking new loans after consolidation to prevent a debt spiral.

Reducing Credit Card Debt
Immediate Actions
Prioritise paying off your credit card balance due to high interest rates.

Convert the outstanding balance into an EMI option if your bank allows.

Avoid using credit cards until the balance is cleared.

Long-Term Management
Use credit cards only for essentials and pay full balances each month.

Set spending limits to ensure better control over usage.

Optimising Your Budget
Reduce Expenses
Categorise expenses and cut non-essential spending.

Use public transport or carpooling to reduce travel costs.

Review utility bills and optimise usage to lower costs.

Create a Debt Repayment Plan
List loans by interest rate and tenure.

Focus on high-interest loans like personal loans and credit cards first.

Use any bonuses or windfalls to prepay loans.

Generating Additional Income
Renting the 1 BHK Flat
If selling the flat is not feasible, consider renting it for extra income.

Use the rent to reduce EMI pressure or build a repayment fund.

Freelancing or Part-Time Work
Explore freelance opportunities that match your skills.

Use additional income to pay off debts faster.

Alternatives to Consider
Restructuring Loans
Approach your lenders to restructure loans with extended tenure or reduced EMI.

Ensure that restructuring terms are affordable and sustainable.

Balance Transfer
Transfer high-interest personal loans to lenders offering lower interest rates.

Use this to reduce overall interest burden and EMI.

Benefits of Working with a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner can provide a customised debt repayment plan.

They help manage finances effectively while maintaining focus on long-term goals.

Guidance ensures disciplined execution without additional debt accumulation.

Final Insights
Selling your flat can clear significant debt, but consider rental costs and market conditions. Debt consolidation can simplify EMIs and reduce interest costs, but evaluate its feasibility. Focus on paying high-interest loans first, optimise expenses, and explore additional income streams. Avoid accumulating further debt to regain financial stability. A structured approach will help you achieve long-term financial freedom.

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 Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

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Hi, iam 47 years male, my monthly income is approx 1.5 lakhs but somehow i got into a financial crunch from last 4 years due to job problems & monthly expenses have risen to above 3.5 lac due to home, car, personal loan, credit card dues etc & i'am unable to bear it all. Is there any financial institution from where i get a loan of say 40 lacs & clear all my dues & than pay 1 emi against this amount.
Ans: I understand the stress you must be feeling with your financial situation. It's crucial to address this effectively. Firstly, let's explore the possibility of consolidating your debts into a single loan to ease the burden.

Given your income and existing liabilities, securing a loan of 40 lakhs may be challenging without collateral. However, you could consider options such as a loan against property (LAP) or a personal loan with a higher amount, provided you meet the lender's eligibility criteria.

Loan against property offers larger loan amounts with longer repayment tenures, leveraging the value of your property as security. On the other hand, a personal loan typically comes with shorter tenures and higher interest rates but may be more accessible without collateral.

Approaching financial institutions like banks or non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) that specialize in debt consolidation loans could be beneficial. They'll assess your financial profile, including your income, liabilities, and credit history, to determine your eligibility and the loan amount you qualify for.

Once approved, consolidating your debts into a single loan can simplify your repayment process, replacing multiple EMIs with a single, manageable installment. This could potentially lower your overall interest burden and provide breathing space to stabilize your finances.

However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and ensure that the terms of the new loan align with your long-term financial goals. Seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner can help you navigate this process effectively, ensuring a strategic approach to debt management and financial planning.

Remember, addressing financial challenges requires patience and proactive steps. By taking control of your finances and seeking the right support, you can gradually work towards achieving stability and financial well-being.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 23, 2024

Money
Hi Sir, I'm 37 years old working as central government employee with a salary of Rs.80k in hand. I have total debt of Rs.12 lac which comprises of multiple loans due to which i am finding it extremely difficult to manage it. My EMI as of now is 75k. Out of these loans 12 lac, total credit card debt amounts to 1.2 lac. Theses loans have remaining 2.5 years tenure. Trying to find banks or financial lenders to consolidate these multiple loans at one place is next to impossible as my application has been rejected again and again due to not meeting their internal policy. In order to be able to pay back the emi on time, i keep borrowing from private lenders with high interest, through friends etc. I am totally at loss now, Please guide and advise me how to manage and get over this trauma. Thanks
Ans: Absolutely understand your situation. Managing debt can be overwhelming, but there are ways to handle it effectively. Let's look at practical steps to help you manage and overcome your financial challenges.

Assessing Your Financial Situation
First, let’s evaluate your current financial situation. You have a salary of Rs. 80,000 in hand. Your EMI is Rs. 75,000, which is very high. Out of Rs. 12 lakh debt, Rs. 1.2 lakh is credit card debt. The remaining loan tenure is 2.5 years. Your main issue is the high EMI which is eating up most of your income.

Prioritizing Debt Repayment
Start by prioritizing your debt. Credit card debt usually has a higher interest rate. Focus on paying off credit card debt first. Pay at least the minimum amount due on other loans to avoid penalties and then direct any extra funds towards your credit card debt.

Reducing Monthly Expenses
Evaluate your monthly expenses. Look for areas where you can cut back. Small savings add up. It’s tough but necessary. Prioritize essential expenses like rent, groceries, and utilities. Cut down on discretionary spending such as dining out, subscriptions, and entertainment.

Generating Additional Income
Consider ways to generate additional income. You might have skills or hobbies that can earn you extra money. Freelancing, part-time jobs, or selling unused items online can help. Every little bit of extra income will aid in reducing your debt faster.

Communicating with Creditors
Reach out to your creditors. Explain your financial situation. Sometimes, creditors may offer restructuring options, lower interest rates, or extended repayment periods. This can help reduce your monthly EMI burden. It’s important to communicate openly and honestly.

Avoiding High-Interest Loans
Stop borrowing from private lenders with high interest rates. This only worsens your financial situation. Avoid taking on any new debt. Focus on managing and paying off existing debt.

Seeking Professional Help
Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). They can provide personalized advice and help create a realistic repayment plan. A CFP can also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, potentially securing better terms for your loans.

Exploring Debt Consolidation Alternatives
Though traditional banks have rejected your consolidation application, explore other avenues. Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) or peer-to-peer lending platforms might be options. However, ensure they are reputable and offer favorable terms.

Utilizing Employee Benefits
As a central government employee, check if there are any benefits or loan restructuring options available. Some government schemes might offer relief or lower interest rates. Utilize any benefits available to ease your financial burden.

Building an Emergency Fund
While repaying debt is crucial, try to set aside a small emergency fund. This fund can help manage unexpected expenses without resorting to high-interest loans. Aim to save a small amount regularly, even if it’s just Rs. 500 per month.

Practicing Financial Discipline
Financial discipline is key. Stick to your budget, avoid unnecessary expenses, and focus on your debt repayment plan. It’s challenging but essential for long-term financial stability.

Maintaining a Positive Mindset
Managing debt can be stressful. It’s important to maintain a positive mindset. Celebrate small victories, such as paying off a portion of your debt. Stay motivated and focused on your long-term financial goals.

Evaluating Your Insurance Policies
If you hold LIC, ULIP, or investment-cum-insurance policies, consider their returns. Sometimes, surrendering these policies and reinvesting in mutual funds might offer better returns. Consult your CFP for personalized advice on this.

Investing in Mutual Funds
Post-debt repayment, consider investing in mutual funds for wealth creation. Actively managed funds through a CFP can offer better returns than direct funds. They provide professional management and tailored advice, aligning with your financial goals.

Final Insights
Your situation is challenging, but with a structured plan and discipline, you can overcome it. Prioritize debt repayment, reduce expenses, seek additional income, and consult a CFP. Maintain open communication with creditors and explore alternative consolidation options. Remember, small consistent efforts lead to significant results.

Taking Action
Start implementing these steps immediately. Track your progress, adjust your plan as needed, and stay committed. Financial freedom is achievable with determination and smart planning.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8077 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 04, 2025Hindi
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I am 32 working as a senior data engineer getting 18lpa, i just started my savings as i dont have any now expect 2l cash. In my 28 i was getting only 3.5lpa and in some situation i took many loans and still needs to be paid. Hdfc 5l personal loan, cc 60k, online loan apps 1L. This all are non payment since 2021 till now and credit score is down to 650. Now ibam getting good salary but i cant be eligible for any PL. I have seen few company says they combine all loans together to pay as single emi. I don't trust them , if they are genuine please suggest me some good company names and any other alternate ways to close all my loans . in future i have to apply loan for my marriage and home loan. Please help me
Ans: You're in a much better financial position now with an 18 LPA salary, and it's great that you’re focusing on clearing your debts. Given that your loans have been non-payment since 2021, your credit score of 650 makes it difficult to get a new personal loan or even loan restructuring through banks.

Key Issues in Your Case
Multiple Unpaid Loans – HDFC Rs. 5L, Credit Card Rs. 60K, Online Loan Apps Rs. 1L
Non-Payment Since 2021 – This likely means penalties, high interest, and legal notices.
Low Credit Score (650) – Makes it tough to get new loans or even a credit line.
1. Steps to Repay Loans Without Falling Into Another Trap
A. Prioritize Loan Repayments (Based on Interest Rates)
Online Loan Apps (Rs. 1L) → These typically have the highest interest (30-50% annually). Pay these first.
Credit Card (Rs. 60K) → If not paid, interest could be 30-40% per year. Negotiate a settlement.
HDFC Personal Loan (Rs. 5L) → If it’s a regular bank loan, the interest would be around 11-15%, so it's the last priority after high-interest loans.
B. Check for a One-Time Settlement (OTS)
Contact HDFC Bank, Credit Card Bank, and Online Lenders.
Request a One-Time Settlement (OTS) where they waive penalties and reduce the total outstanding.
Many banks offer 50-70% waiver on penalties if you show that you are serious about repaying.
C. Avoid Fraud "Loan Consolidation" Companies
Most private loan consolidators are not trustworthy—they charge upfront fees and do not guarantee approvals.
Instead, check if HDFC itself can offer a loan restructuring plan.
2. Alternative Ways to Close Loans Without a New Loan
Option 1: Employer Loan or Salary Advance
Many companies offer employee loans or salary advances at low interest rates. Speak to HR about this.

Option 2: Borrow from Family or Trusted Friends
If someone in your family can help with an interest-free loan, it will save you from high-interest payments.

Option 3: Liquidate Assets
Since you don’t have savings yet, check if you have:

Jewelry/Gold → You can take a Gold Loan (8-10% interest) and close high-interest loans first.
Bike/Car → If not essential, selling them can give you funds to clear high-interest loans.
Option 4: Build a 6-Month Repayment Plan from Salary
With your salary of Rs. 1.5L per month, you can allocate:

Rs. 70K for basic expenses & rent
Rs. 80K for clearing debts
In 6-7 months, you can close the Rs. 1.6L high-interest loans (online loans + credit card)
Then, tackle the Rs. 5L HDFC loan through structured EMIs
3. How to Improve Your Credit Score for Future Loans (Marriage & Home Loan)?
Step 1: Start Paying All EMIs on Time (No Delays)
Even a small delay now will damage your credit score further.
If you settle your loans, get a NOC (No Objection Certificate) from banks to ensure it's marked as "Closed" in your credit report.
Step 2: Get a Secured Credit Card
Banks like HDFC, ICICI, or SBI offer secured credit cards against FD.
Open a Rs. 50K FD, get a secured credit card, and spend Rs. 2,000-3,000 per month and pay in full.
This will increase your CIBIL score in 6-12 months.
Step 3: Avoid Any New Loan for 1 Year
Avoid applying for any new unsecured loan until your score crosses 750+.
Instead, build an emergency fund of Rs. 1-2L in savings first.
Final Plan for You
Negotiate One-Time Settlement with lenders to waive penalties.
Close Online Loans & Credit Cards first within 6-7 months using salary surplus.
Then, start regular EMIs for HDFC loan (Request restructuring if needed).
Get a Secured Credit Card after clearing debts.
Save Rs. 1-2L as an emergency fund before applying for any future loans.
If you follow this, your CIBIL score will improve in 12-18 months, making you eligible for future home and marriage loans at good interest rates.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |102 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Mar 04, 2025

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Hi Mam, Hope you are doing well. I am very worried about my son who is now 12.5 years old and studying in 7th standard in a very reputed school. Since childhood, he has no interest in studies, unless we doesn't seat in front of him, he doesn't study. Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class and the result is he doesn't get good marks in the exam. When we scold him for studies, he does it for that particular time only and then get back to his non-interest mode again and start to run from studies. He will play video games, goes to play around with his friends, he will find some or the other reason for not doing studies or homework. The irony is that he is not interested in any sports or any other kind of activities. In every summer holidays, we make him to join some sports or music classes, but there also he doesn't show interest and do things just for the sake of showing. From last year, we have started sending him to tuitions also, but no change in attitude. This year we have found a teacher of his reputed school who is retired and taking tuitions, we are sending him to her and she is charging a big amount for tuitions. please guide how can we change his attitude and make him more serious in any activity he does as he doesn't have interest in anything (we have observed doing everything we can).
Ans: Hello Sunil!!

I am doing great, thank you for asking, God bless you!

I can totally understand when you say you are worried.

Your son is 12.5, he will soon be a teenager. There will be different challenges, I want you to read up on parenting a teenager and be ready to handle him well.

The problem as I see it is that everyone of you, his teachers included have made studies like a burden for him.... and subjected the young child to a lot of anxiety, he just wants to run away form it....
"Every teacher from his kindergarten days upto now has the same complaint that he is doesn't pay attention in class".... this statement of yours... it is the teacher's duty to ensure the child listens to him/her, how can she start labeling a child like this. From a young age your son has been conditioned to believe that he is not not good in studies, he doesn't focus and he doesn't sit in one place. All my sympathies are with your son...every child comes with immense potential and it's our duty as parents and teachers to nurture the child.

The following is what I propose so that we bring him back to loving to learn ( not score marks, that should never be the barometer)-
1. Love your child the way he is now
2. Give him lot of positive strokes
3. Have one on one sessions for any activity you plan for him... let him choose the activity, empower him
4. choose a teacher, who can get along with him and help him develop a positive attitude towards studies and life in general
5. look for a school where they nurture him... not just a reputed one...less number of students and a teacher who is invested in her/ his students,

If you can connect with me, I can help him. Have had many a students in this kind situation.
This is my website..
https://transformme.co.in/

Loads of best wishes to the whole family..

...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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