The Role of Guarantors in Personal Loans: Understanding Rights and Responsibilities

Understanding the Role of Guarantor in Personal Loan

In the journey of achieving your financial goals, a personal loan can be your backbone. Whether you want to invest in your higher education or want to fund your first two-wheeler, it can help you get there without breaking your savings account or borrowing money from friends and family.

It’s extremely important to present a solid credit profile to increase your chances of approval. However, if you’re someone who is new to credit or doesn’t have a strong credit profile, a personal loan guarantor is your way to go. They won’t only help you increase your personal loan eligibility but also act as a pillar when it comes to making repayments.

Want to know how to unlock guarantor loans? Then keep reading this blog to find out.

What is a Personal Loan Guarantor?

Loan guarantor meaning is a person who is responsible for repaying the debt of the primary borrower in the case of any default. When the primary borrower is applying for a loan, they assign a guarantor to increase their chances of approval. The guarantor usually has a high credit score and stable income. 

If the borrower is unable to repay the loan in any circumstances, the financial obligation shifts to the guarantor. To reduce the risk for both parties, the primary borrower usually chooses a close friend or family member to act as their guarantor.

Responsibilities of Guarantors in Personal Loans

Agreeing to be a personal loan guarantor comes with a set of responsibilities which go beyond repaying personal loans in the case of defaults.

It’s important that both – the primary borrower and guarantor – know the rights and rules for loan guarantor.  

This helps everyone understand the terms of borrowing and avoids any kind of confusion when it’s time to repay the loan.

Providing Their Personal and Credit Details:

If a borrower assigns you to act as a personal loan guarantor, you will have to provide the required information and documents to the lender. The lender will then assess the loan eligibility of both – the primary borrower and you to calculate the risk associated with providing credit.

Understanding the Terms of Borrowing:

Along with the primary borrower, even the guarantor needs to understand all the terms associated with the borrowing. This includes going through the interest charges, processing fee, EMI amount, repayment due date, etc. This ensures that the personal loan guarantor is also aligned with all the terms of borrowing in case the lender has to do recovery of the loan from the guarantor.

Putting Their Credit Score And Asset at Risk:

If the primary borrower can’t repay the loan as per the repayment schedule, it will also have a negative impact on the credit profile of the guarantor. In the case of a secured loan, the lender has the right to seize the asset of the guarantor as well.

Repaying Guarantor Loans in the Case of Default:

When the primary borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the right to do the recovery of the loan from the guarantor. This is one of the biggest responsibilities of a personal loan guarantor, as they’re obligated to repay the loan in the case of any default.

How Can You Safeguard Yourself as a Personal Loan Guarantor?

When you agree to be a guarantor, it’s important to know how you can protect yourself from any kind of negative consequences.  

Here are some simple ways in which you can safeguard yourself as a personal loan guarantor.

Read the Fine Print Thoroughly:

When it comes to guarantor loans, the most important and precautionary step is the one you take before starting your application process. Reading the fine print.

As a guarantor, it’s important you understand all the terms associated with borrowing as it will also impact your credit profile. If you disagree with any clause, you can back down in time.

Ask a Co-Guarantor to Join:

Asking for a co-guarantor can reduce the burden of repayment during any kind of default. This won’t only help you share the responsibility with someone, but also reduce the risk of any negative consequences.

Keep Track of Repayments:

After the loan is sanctioned to the borrower, keep close tabs on the repayment to avoid any defaults. As long as the primary borrower repays their loans on time, there will be no chance of any repercussions. If you feel there could be a chance of missed payments, you can nudge the borrower to repay it on time.

When Do Financial Institutions Ask for a Personal Loan Guarantor?

Financial institutions ask for a personal Loan guarantor when the primary borrower can’t fit the criteria of the lender. Here are some reasons why this may happen:

Many lenders and financial institutions make it a part of their lending policy. This reduces the risk associated with lending people money.

Sometimes, a guarantor is required if the primary borrower is below 21 years of age.

Financial institutions may even ask for a guarantor if the primary borrower has a low credit score and income.

Understanding Impact of Guarantors for Loan Agreement

Applying for a personal loan with a guarantor who has a strong credit profile and high income can have a positive impact on your loan approval and terms.

Increased Chances of Approval: 

Applying for a personal loan with a guarantor automatically increases your chances of getting instant approval for the loan. If the guarantor has a good credit score and high income, it reduces the risk for the lender. This automatically improves the loan eligibility for the primary borrower, increasing the chances of approval. 

Best Terms of Borrowing:

A personal loan guarantor doesn’t only increase your chances of approval but also helps you get the best terms of borrowing. This includes lower interest rates, higher loan amounts and longer tenure.

Pros and Cons of Being a Guarantor for a Personal Loan

Conclusion

A guarantor plays a significant role in being an enabler for one’s financial goals. You’re not only helping your friends and family increase their chances for instant personal loan approval but are also helping them get a step closer to their aspirations. However, being a personal loan guarantor is a very serious responsibility. This is why it’s important to consider all the pros and cons to make an informed financial decision.