Archive · 1 Jul 2025
Zero-Cost EMI: The Hidden Costs of Installment Payments
Imagine you want a new phone, but don't want to pay all at once.
Zero-cost EMI lets you split the cost into monthly payments without extra interest.
Stores and banks team up to offer this.
But, you might miss out on a discount you'd get if you paid everything upfront.
Even though there's no interest, there could be other fees, like for processing or prepayment.
These offers are available at places like Amazon and through banks.
Zero-cost EMIs allow purchases in monthly payments without interest.
These offers are common in online and offline stores through partnerships.
Customers may miss upfront discounts by choosing zero-cost EMI.
Hidden costs may include processing fees, GST on interest, and penalties.
Zero-cost EMIs are offered by retailers and banks like Amazon, HDFC, and Bajaj Finserv.
- Who
- Banks, brands, and retailers offer zero-cost EMIs to customers.
- What
- Zero-cost EMIs are installment plans without interest.
- When
- These offers are common now.
- Where
- Offered in online and offline stores.
- Why
- To allow customers to pay in installments without added interest.
Consumer Viewpoint
Retailer/Lender Viewpoint
Financial Advantage
Consumer Viewpoint
Zero-cost EMIs are beneficial as they allow customers to make purchases without immediate large payments.
Retailer/Lender Viewpoint
Customers might miss out on upfront discounts and incur extra charges.
- What is it?
- Installment payments without interest.
- Common items
- Smartphones, electronics, education, medical services, travel
- Hidden Costs
- Processing fees, GST, prepayment penalties, limited returns
- Where Offered?
- Amazon, Flipkart, Croma, HDFC, ICICI, SBI, Bajaj Finserv, etc.