How to prepare your documents for a smooth personal loan process
Getting a personal loan approved has become hassle-free, especially with online platforms simplifying the process. However, to ensure a smooth experience, you need to have all the required documents ready. Proper documentation speeds up approval and strengthens your credibility as a borrower.
Here is a list of documents required for a personal loan for different types of individuals:
| Document requirements | Salaried individuals | Self-employed individuals | NRI applicants | Pensioners |
| Identity proof | An Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving license, passport, or PAN card. | An Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, driving license, or PAN card. | Passport and visa, attested by foreign offices, notary public, Indian embassy, or authorised bank officials. | A ration card, passport, PAN card, Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving license, or equivalent to establish your identity. |
| Address proof | Aadhaar card, passport, driving license, recent electricity bills, water bills, gas bills, rent agreement, or NREGA card. | Aadhaar card, passport, property ownership, utility bills (electricity, gas, water), etc. | Employment contracts, letters of appointment, labour/identity cards (if applicable), official e-mail address, or HR e-mail address to confirm your job security and employment status overseas. | Passport, Aadhaar card, utility bills, ration card, driving license, etc. |
| Income proof | Three months’ salary slips and three to six months of bank statements. You may need to provide Form 16 or the latest Income Tax Return (ITR). | Audited financial statements for the last two years, the latest current/savings account bank statements, profit, and loss (P&L) statements, and other financial statements. | Bank statements and the latest salary slips for the past six months. | Salary vouchers for the past six months, bank passbook copies, pension payment orders, and Form 16 or ITR (if applicable). |
| Employment/ Business proof | Employee ID card, appointment letter, or experience letter issued by your current or past employer. | Letter of incorporation, property papers, proof of business address, business vintage proof, and proof of business continuity. |
How to handle documents for a smooth loan application process
Here are some tips to handle documentation:
- Digitalise your documents: Scan and save all your documents in PDF format. This speeds up the process to apply for an instant personal loan online due to quick uploads and shorter processing times.
- Ensure document validity: All scanned copies should be clear and legal. Blurry or incomplete documents can lead to a delay or rejection.
- Use secure digital storage: Software like DigiLocker allows you to save and retrieve your documents, making them readily available when required.
- Stay updated: Regularly update your documents, like ID and address proofs, to keep them valid and acceptable.
- Self-attest where necessary: Certain lenders may require self-attested copies. Be sure to sign and date these documents wherever required.
Conclusion
Organising your documents in advance is a key step in ensuring a smooth personal loan application. Knowing what’s required, and keeping everything updated, digitalised, and accessible, can significantly boost your chances of quick approval.
With proper preparation, you not only save time but also present yourself as a credible and responsible borrower, ready to meet your financial goals.
