What is the Minimum Salary Needed to Qualify for a Personal Loan?

Apr 4, 2024
 |  1 min read

Looking for a personal loan? Your monthly income plays a huge role if you wish to qualify for one. Lenders approve loans based on your income. And what does your income signify? Your ability to repay the loan. It’s a simple rule — more income stability equals fewer chances of getting into bad debt. But here is one major thing! The minimum salary needed to qualify for a personal loan can significantly vary based on your lender's requirements, criteria, credit score, and the loan amount you're applying for. There is no one minimum salary bar that can help you acquire it.

So, let’s learn how your monthly income impacts your eligibility for a personal loan, the minimum salary needed to qualify for a personal loan, how you can improve your loan approval chances with a lower wage, and whether having someone co-sign the loan can help you get approved.

How Does Your Monthly Income Impact Your Eligibility for a Personal Loan?

Your monthly income is essential in order to be eligible for a personal loan. But how does your monthly income impact your eligibility for a personal loan? Let us find out!

  • Loan Amount: Your earnings help lenders determine the maximum loan amount you can apply for. They use the highest debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and other factors to determine how much of your earnings can be used to service loans.
  • Repayment Capacity: Lenders establish a borrower’s repayment ability based on income. A higher income indicates you have more means to repay the loan, and your repayment capacity is evident. 
  • Credit worthiness: Higher incomes are not linked directly to credit scores, although they can correlate. This can easily improve your chances of getting approved for a loan and also enable you to qualify for better loan terms.
  • Employment Stability: Lenders prefer borrowers with steady incomes from reliable sources due to many factors. A constant salary record can significantly increase your eligibility and keep you in favour of creditors.

How to Improve Your Loan Approval Chances with a Lower Salary?

If you have a low income, you might wonder how to improve your loan approval chances with a lower salary. There are several effective ways that can significantly improve your chances of getting a personal loan despite a low income.

  • Improve your Credit Score: A higher credit score can help you if you have a lower income. You must pay your bills on time and reduce your debt. Also, avoid seeking new loans before your previous debts are cleared.
  • Reduce your Debt: Reducing existing debts can lower the Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI). (Based on which lenders make decisions) You should consider paying off high-interest debts or consolidating them so that your monthly payments can decrease.
  • Increase your Down Payment: Offering a more significant amount as a down payment can reduce the loan amount needed. This can minimise the lender’s risks and show your mindful planning and commitment to the expense.
  • Shop Around: Loan approvals can vary largely from one lender to another. Do not forget to compare offers from multiple lenders based on your income to get one that will likely approve your application.
  • Provide Additional Documentation: If you have an erratic source of income or earn from various sources, ensure you provide detailed paperwork for your case. Make sure your tax returns, bank statements, and other proof of additional earnings are available.
  • Improve Employment Stability: As mentioned earlier, lenders look for stable employment in their borrowers. If possible, wait until you are with your current employer for an extended period before applying for the loan.

Will Having Someone Co-Sign the Loan Help You Get a Loan?

So the eminent question is, will having someone co-sign the loan help you get a loan?” The answer is — YES!

  • Higher Chance of Approval: A co-signer with a strong credit history and higher income can strengthen your loan application. It can also increase the likelihood of your loan approval.
  • Better Loan Terms: With a co-signer, you can also qualify for a lower interest rate or higher loan amount than you could without one.

Conclusion

So to answer the question, your monthly income determines your eligibility for a personal loan. Almost all lenders rigorously assess your income to ensure you can comfortably repay the loan. The minimum salary bar varies, but the determinant factors remain the same. A co-signer with stable income and good credit can help seal the deal if you have a lower income.

Looking for quick cash loans? mPokket is the best platform that offers students and young professionals instant loans online. You will find easy access to funds without collateral or extensive documentation. If you are looking for instant loans for low salary, mPokket provides the most lucrative offers. Download the application now!

Gaurav Jalan

Gaurav Jalan is the Founder and CEO of mPokket, a digital lending platform serving underserved Indian youth. He leverages technology and experience to deliver cost-effective credit to marginalized populations. In his role, he provides strategic direction and oversees execution to fulfill mPokket's mission.