It’s tempting to be able to buy that latest gadget or swanky kitchen appliance without having to shell out the money upfront. And supposedly, that’s why consumers can be seen flocking to Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options these days.
Live TV
Loading...
However, before going on a BNPL-induced spree, it’s vital to keep in mind some caveats especially for those only beginning to build up their credit history.
Here are key factors to consider before using Buy Now Pay Later:
Check interest-free windows
BNPL interest-free windows are usually between 15-45 days. So, it’s advisable to go for a BNPL scheme only if consumers are sure that they can repay the amount within that period, said Rajat Deshpande, CEO and Co-founder at FinBox while talking to CNBC-TV18.
“Past that mark, the lender will charge interest on the unpaid sum and in some cases, levy hefty late payment fees,” he said.
Adding to this, Upasana Taku- Co-founder and COO at MobiKwik.com said that defaulting on the payment can also spoil one’s credit score and make it difficult for them to apply for bigger ticket loans. So, one should be mindful of that.
Compare with credit cards
Depending on the purchase amount, Deshpande said that it’s wise to compare credit cards with BNPL to make the right choice in that particular instance.
“Credit cards offer the ability to convert purchases into monthly EMIs - which many BNPL providers do as well, but not all of them. It also makes sense to consider additional fees that may get lost in the fine print. Most credit cards come with onboarding charges and annual fees. Bank-led BNPL providers, however, don’t casually charge processing fees,” he added.
Avoid any debt trap
Consumers must ensure that they read all related documentation, and don’t opt for BNPL if they are already paying off prior debts, Deshpande said.
"The small loan amounts that characterize BNPL make it very easy for borrowers to fall into debt traps without realizing it," he told CNBC-TV18.
Sign up with credible BNPL service providers
Nehul Malhotra, Head- Consumer Lending at BharatPe further said that customers should always sign up with credible BNPL service providers so that they do not fall into any kind of problem in the future.
These providers, he said, will clearly explain the various terms and conditions including those for repayment and charges. In addition to this, the user interface would be explained.
Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on CNBCTV18.com are their own and not that of the website or its management. CNBCTV18.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
(Edited by : Ajay Vaishnav)
First Published: Nov 18, 2021 5:07 PM IST
Check out our in-depth Market Coverage, Business News & get real-time Stock Market Updates on CNBC-TV18. Also, Watch our channels CNBC-TV18, CNBC Awaaz and CNBC Bajar Live on-the-go!
Haryana Lok Sabha elections 2024: Seats, schedule, Congress-led INDIA bloc candidates and more
May 6, 2024 12:09 PM
Andhra Pradesh: Kuppam loyalty test for TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu
May 6, 2024 9:35 AM