Personal Loan vs. Credit Card: Which Is Better for Your Financial Goals?
When you need extra funds for a wedding, medical emergency, home repair, or even a vacation, two common options come to mind: a personal loan or a credit card. While both provide access to money, they work very differently, and choosing the wrong one could cost you more in the long run. Understanding the key differences can help you align your borrowing with your financial goals. What Is a Personal Loan? A personal loan is a fixed amount of money borrowed from a bank or financial institution, repaid in equal monthly installments (EMIs) over a set period, typically 1 to 5 years. It’s usually unsecured (no collateral needed) and comes with a fixed markup rate. Best for : Large, planned expenses like weddings, education, or debt consolidation. What Is a Credit Card? A credit card offers a revolving line of credit up to a pre-approved limit. You can spend as much as you want (up to the limit), repay in full each month, or carry a balance though interest charges apply if you don’t pay in ...