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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9309 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 26, 2025

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
sree Question by sree on Jun 25, 2025Hindi
Money

Hi sir. I am 34 years, having a salary of 72K take home,I have personal loans 5lakhs and hand loans from friends and relatives 15Lakhs. And I stopped to repay EMIs also due to this Pressures, I am unable to manage loan EMIs and hand loan interest everything, I don't have any savings also, How can I clear this EMIS and hand loan, please give a proper solution please help me.

Ans: You are 34 years old. Your monthly income is Rs. 72,000. You have personal loans of Rs. 5 lakh. You also owe Rs. 15 lakh to friends and relatives. Total loan is Rs. 20 lakh. You have stopped paying EMIs. There are no savings. This is a tough situation. But solutions are possible. Let’s go step by step with a full 360-degree plan.

Assess Your Current Reality
Monthly salary: Rs. 72,000

Total debt: Rs. 20 lakh

No savings

No investments

EMIs are stopped

Heavy mental stress

This is a serious phase. But the fact that you want to solve it shows strength.

Step 1: Pause and Accept
First, pause and think calmly.

Do not panic

Stop feeling guilty

Accept your current situation

Decide to fix it one step at a time

You are not alone. Many people go through such debt traps. What matters is the decision to act.

Step 2: Categorise Your Loans Clearly
You have two types of loans:

Formal loans:

Bank or NBFC personal loans

These will impact your CIBIL score

They may send legal notices

Informal loans:

Borrowed from friends and relatives

These hurt relationships

They may ask anytime

Why classify:

So that you handle them differently

Each needs a different solution

Step 3: Track Your Exact Cash Flow
Let’s check how much you can repay monthly.

Monthly income: Rs. 72,000

Monthly basic living expenses: Keep it to Rs. 25,000–30,000

Try to cut all non-essential spending

Focus only on food, rent, utilities

Possible saving:

Try to save Rs. 40,000 monthly for debt repayment

Every rupee saved must go to loan clearance

Even small expenses add up. Be strict but practical.

Step 4: Prioritise Your Loan Payments
You must decide which loan to repay first.

Repay formal loans first:

These affect credit score

These charge high interest

May lead to legal action

Talk to bank and request:

EMI pause

Loan restructuring

Reduced EMI plan

Some banks offer hardship relief

Be honest with them. Many agree to restructure if you explain.

After formal loans:

Slowly start paying informal hand loans

Be open with your friends and relatives

Tell them your action plan

Commit small but regular payments

People appreciate honesty and discipline.

Step 5: Avoid Taking Any New Loan
This is very important. Do not:

Take new loan to repay old loans

Use credit cards

Use payday apps or money lenders

Borrow from new friends

This will trap you more. You are already deep in debt.

Focus on cleaning up step by step.

Step 6: Increase Your Income
Right now, income is fixed. But if you can earn more, debt clears faster.

Try these ideas:

Weekend freelancing

Evening tuition

Online part-time work

Extra shifts if your job allows

Festival-based temporary jobs

Even Rs. 5,000–10,000 extra per month will help.

Don’t worry about job level. Focus on income. It's just for the next 2–3 years.

Step 7: Create a Debt Clearance Plan
You have Rs. 20 lakh loan. Assume you can pay Rs. 40,000 per month.

That is Rs. 4.8 lakh per year.

So you may take 4–5 years to clear full debt.

But follow this repayment order:

Start with small high-interest loans

Clear one loan fully

Then move to next

This gives motivation

It also shows progress

It’s called Debt Snowball Method.

If you get any bonus or cash gift, use it to close one loan fully.

Step 8: Avoid Emotional Spending
You may feel sad, frustrated or ashamed. That is normal.

But don’t deal with it by:

Shopping

Eating out

Parties

Showing off

Use every bit of money for one goal: debt freedom.

Talk to family. Ask for support, not money.

Step 9: Protect Your Mental Health
Debt stress is real. It can affect sleep, confidence, and peace.

Try these steps:

Wake up early

Exercise daily

Write your budget weekly

Avoid negative people

Take help if you feel depressed

You are doing the right thing now. Keep your mind stable.

Step 10: Build Emergency Fund After Clearing Debt
Once you finish loans:

Start saving Rs. 2,000/month

Slowly build Rs. 1 lakh buffer

Keep this in liquid fund

Use this only for medical or job loss

Emergency fund avoids future debt.

Step 11: Don’t Touch Risky Options
You may hear many ideas now like:

Invest in real estate for returns

Do trading or quick profits

Buy insurance plus investment plans

Use index funds or ETFs

Buy direct mutual funds

Avoid all these now. You are not ready.

Focus only on:

Clearing debt

Building savings

Protecting income

Step 12: Insurance Is Must, But Start After Debt
Right now, do not buy any plan.

But once you clear debt, buy:

Term life insurance

Health insurance (if not covered already)

Use pure term plan only. Avoid endowment or ULIP.

Buy only after income stabilises.

Step 13: Involve a Certified Financial Planner
You need guidance for next 5 years.

After clearing loans, work with:

Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Invest through MFD with CFP support

Use regular mutual funds

They will guide your retirement, child education, insurance, tax, and investment.

Avoid direct funds. No guidance. Mistakes can cost you future wealth.

Step 14: Use a Simple Monthly Budget
Use this format every month:

Income: Rs. 72,000

Rent: Rs. ___

Food: Rs. ___

Transport: Rs. ___

EMI: Rs. ___

Loan to friend: Rs. ___

Savings: Rs. ___

Track this every Sunday. Keep it simple and honest.

Finally
You are in a very serious financial stage. But your courage to ask shows strength.

You must now:

Control all spending

Increase income side income

Pay loans one by one

Avoid new debt

Don’t invest now

Build stability first

Later invest through CFP

In 4–5 years, your life can fully change.

You’ll be debt-free. Mentally relaxed. And strong for the future.

You will thank yourself later.

Start today. Stay honest. Stay strong. Take action. Every small step matters.

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9309 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 19, 2024

Listen
Money
Hi sir I recently loss my job and I have personal Emi and taken loans from apps. which is aroundly have to pay Emi 35 k in a month and loan apps like Paytm , moneyview daliy calling and threating . I worried and I should not have focussed on anything. Please help from this situation
Ans: Losing a job and facing debt can be overwhelming. It is important to act swiftly to manage your financial situation.

Assess Your Financial Situation
List All Debts:

EMI of Rs. 35,000 per month.
Loans from various apps like Paytm and MoneyView.
Prioritize Debts:

Identify which debts have the highest interest rates.
Focus on these high-interest loans first.
Create a Budget
Calculate Monthly Expenses:

List essential expenses (rent, utilities, groceries).
Identify non-essential expenses you can cut.
Allocate Funds:

Ensure you cover essential expenses first.
Allocate remaining funds towards debt repayment.
Communicate with Lenders
Contact Loan Providers:

Explain your job loss situation.
Request for a temporary reduction or deferment in EMI payments.
Negotiate Repayment Terms:

Ask for extended repayment periods.
Request for lower interest rates if possible.
Seek Professional Help
Certified Financial Planner:

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice.
They can help you create a debt management plan.
Credit Counseling Services:

Consider reaching out to credit counseling services.
They can negotiate with creditors on your behalf.
Increase Income Sources
Look for Temporary Work:

Consider part-time or freelance work.
Explore gig economy jobs like food delivery or ride-sharing.
Sell Unnecessary Assets:

Sell items you no longer need.
Use the proceeds to pay off debts.
Emergency Measures
Emergency Fund:

If you have an emergency fund, use it to cover essential expenses.
Avoid depleting it completely, keep some funds for unforeseen emergencies.
Friends and Family:

Consider borrowing from trusted friends or family.
Ensure you create a clear repayment plan to avoid misunderstandings.
Legal and Supportive Measures
Understand Your Rights:

Familiarize yourself with the laws regarding debt collection.
Loan apps must follow legal protocols; report any harassment.
Emotional Support:

Seek support from friends, family, or support groups.
Managing stress and mental health is crucial during this time.
Final Insights
Facing job loss and debt can be daunting. Take immediate steps to manage your finances. Prioritize essential expenses and debt repayment. Communicate with lenders and seek professional help. Look for temporary income sources and consider selling unnecessary assets. Protect your mental health and seek support from loved ones. With a strategic approach, you can navigate this difficult period and regain financial stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9309 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 13, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Sir i have multiple loans and credit card bills which sums up 20 lakh and my monthly income is 30k i am not able to pay the emi anymore on time every month i am in deep stress in trying to pay the emi plz help
Ans: Your debt is high, and your income is low. Paying EMIs on time has become difficult. This situation needs an urgent plan.

You are not alone. Many people face similar financial struggles. With the right steps, you can come out of this stress.

Assess Your Debt Situation
Total loan and credit card debt: Rs 20 lakh.

Monthly income: Rs 30,000.

EMIs and credit card bills are unmanageable.

Stress is increasing due to financial burden.

The first step is to stop taking new loans or using credit cards.

Prioritise Your Debts
Credit card debt has the highest interest (30-40% per year).

Personal loans have high EMIs and penalties for delays.

Secured loans (home, car) should be managed to avoid asset loss.

Focus on clearing high-interest debts first.

Negotiate with Banks and Lenders
Contact your bank and request a loan restructuring.

Ask for a lower EMI with a longer repayment period.

Request a moratorium (temporary pause on EMI) if needed.

Convert credit card dues into an EMI loan with a lower interest rate.

Negotiate for a settlement if repayment is impossible.

Banks prefer to restructure loans rather than declare them as defaults.

Debt Consolidation Options
If you have a low-interest secured loan option (like a gold loan), consider using it to clear high-interest credit card debt.

Avoid taking another personal loan to clear old debts. It will worsen your situation.

Increase Your Income
Look for part-time or freelance work for extra income.

If possible, sell unused assets (bike, gadgets, jewelry) to reduce debt.

Discuss with family members for temporary financial help.

Cut Unnecessary Expenses
Reduce spending on non-essential items.

Stop using credit cards immediately.

Follow a strict budget and use cash or debit cards for expenses.

Seek Professional Help
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help create a repayment plan.

If stress is overwhelming, consult a financial counselor or mental health professional.

Final Insights
Your situation is difficult, but a step-by-step plan will help.

Stop new loans and credit card usage immediately.

Contact banks to negotiate for lower EMIs or settlement options.

Increase income through extra work and reduce expenses.

Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner.

You are not alone. With the right approach, you can come out of this financial struggle.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9309 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 02, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello sir, I have multiple EMIs and I am doing business. I have 5 EMIs, 1st EMI is 16483 rs and remaining 49,000. 2 EMIs, 2nd is 16800, remaining 14,0000. 3rd EMI is 10100, remaining is 14,0000 and 4th EMI is 4500, remaining 87,000, 5th EMI is 8200, remaining amount is 170000. So total EMIs around 56,0000 principal amount remaining and my monthly income is 80k. Still I have 5,86000 to settle and suddenly I got huge loss in my business and now I am jobless and no any other option of income, so please suggest what should I do and how to come out of debt....please suggest it's a request. Am not able to find any way how to get out of this debt.
Ans: I appreciate that you reached out honestly and took responsibility. Let’s work step by step toward financial stability.

Financial Snapshot at Present

You have total EMIs around Rs.?56,000 per month.

Loan principals remaining total Rs.?5.86?lakhs.

You are currently jobless with monthly income zero.

No immediate alternative income source mentioned.

You are in business and may try restarting.

Your situation is tough. But with a clear plan, you can regain control. Let’s analyse and act.

1. Strict Expense Audit

You must begin with clarity on expenses:

List every monthly expense you have.

Include household, personal, and business costs.

Mark essentials vs non?essentials.

Cut all non?essential spending immediately.

Stop subscriptions, leisure, and luxury outflows.

Redirect savings toward EMI obligations only.

This exercise will free up funds to prioritise debt servicing.

2. Emergency Income Exploration

As you are jobless now, urgent action is essential:

Explore part?time work or freelance gigs.

Offer skills online or offline for income.

Try consulting in your earlier business domain.

Join temporary or gig roles to cover EMIs.

Consider small services like tutoring or delivery until stable.

Any income helps you stay afloat and prevents defaults.

3. Talk to Lenders Proactively

Approach banks and financiers quickly:

Explain your business loss and jobless status.

Request EMI moratorium or interim relief.

Ask for loan repayment rescheduling.

Seek interest-only EMI for some months.

Aim to reduce EMI burden to an affordable level.

Lenders may offer restructuring if approached early.

4. Debt Repayment Strategy: Ladder Method

Once you restore some income:

Prioritise smallest loan for full repayment first.

Then move EMI money to the next smallest loan.

Repeat until all small debts are cleared.

This gives psychological momentum and frees up EMI space.

Once smaller loans are cleared, reallocate funds to bigger loans.

This method keeps you motivated and reduces EMI load faster.

5. Asset Monetisation and Liquidation

Consider using existing assets for debt:

Sell non-essential jewellery or things lying idle.

Withdraw small amounts from any savings or liquid funds.

Use funds to prepay smaller EMIs.

Don’t empty deep savings; retain 1–2 months buffer.

This approach shortens debt tenure and interest burden.

6. Avoid High-Cost Borrowings

Now is not the time for risky debt:

Do not take new loans to repay old ones.

Steer clear of credit cards, personal loans at high rates.

Resist tempting small business loans or gold loans.

This prevents falling into a debt spiral.

7. Business Restructuring

If you plan to restart business:

Analyse where losses occurred.

Cut all non?essential business costs.

Focus on small, quick?turnover products.

Build low?cost, high?margin services.

Reinvest profits slowly into growth.

Keep business and personal finances separate.

Your business can support debt repayment if rebuilt wisely.

8. Emergency Fund Re?Establishment

Once you start earning again:

Set aside 1–2 months’ worth of living expenses.

Keep this in liquid form like a savings account.

This buffer prevents future defaults.

Even a small cushion keeps financial stress manageable.

9. Avoid Investment Disruption

Unless necessary, do not break investments now:

Keep long-term mutual funds or debts intact.

Cancelling SIPs may harm long-term wealth creation.

If needed, stop SIPs temporarily but don’t liquidate.

If you have direct plans like ULIPs or endowments,
consult a CFP about surrendering and reinvesting via MFD.

This protects your future financial foundation.

10. Seek Support for Credit Counseling

You don’t have to do this alone:

Look for credit counselling through non-profit agencies.

They may negotiate with lenders on your behalf.

They offer guidance on debt rehabilitation.

A CFP can help you plan and manage cash flow.

Professional assistance often leads to better outcomes.

11. Re?negotiation After Recovery

When income recovers:

Resume previous EMI schedule gradually.

Or consider prepayment to expedite loan clearance.

Check if prepaying requires penalty.

Prioritise smaller loans or higher interest loans first.

Track monthly debt outstanding and revisit budgets.

Regular reviews keep you on the payment track.

12. Rebuild and Protect Going Forward

After debt payoff, build a stronger future:

Reinstate SIPs into diversified mutual funds.

Prefer regular plans under CFP guidance for safety.

Split into equity (for growth) and debt (for stability).

Build emergency fund worth at least 6 months.

Get term and health insurance if not already present.

Track income and expenses monthly for smooth finances.

These steps ensure long-term stability and peace.

13. Long-Term Financial Discipline

To stay on strong footing:

Maintain savings habit even during recovery.

Keep debt within safe limits of future income.

Plan for retirement post-recovery.

Adjust lifestyle to match income growth.

Discipline paves the road to financial freedom.

14. Psychological and Family Support

Debt impact is more than finance:

Be transparent with family about status.

Seek their support for cost-cutting.

Don’t hide or risk relationships.

Talking may ease stress and spark ideas.

Together, you can handle hardship better.

360?Degree Action Plan Summary

Audit all expenses and cut every non?essential cost.

Look immediately for alternative income options.

Talk to lenders for EMI relief or rescheduling.

Use ladder method to repay smaller loans first.

Monetise idle assets to reduce EMI burden.

Avoid taking high-cost new debts.

Rebuild business with low cost and profit focus.

Create a small emergency buffer with regained income.

Retain long-term investments; stop SIPs if needed.

Use credit counselling or CFP guidance.

After recovery, resume EMI schedules or prepayments.

Re?start SIPs in regular mutual funds via CFP.

Secure term and health insurance.

Rebalance finances every quarter.

Stay transparent with your family to ease burdens.

Final Insights

You are facing difficult times, but you still have options and resilience.
Immediate income and lender negotiation are the first steps.
Cutting expenses sharply will save crucial money.
Small asset sales can free funds for EMIs.
Avoid more debts.
Rebuild systematically without losing hope.
Use small income to prove creditors you are serious.
A structured plan will get you out of the crisis.
After crisis, build back savings, investments, and buffers.
You can recover, grow, and succeed again.
This plan gives clarity, purpose, and a way forward.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..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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