Top Government Business Loan Schemes for MSMEs
Aug 28, 2025 | 4 mins read
SME Loans are essential financial tools for businesses looking to grow, manage cash flow or invest in opportunities. However, understanding the associated fees and charges is crucial to avoid surprises that could strain your finances. From SME Loan processing fees to foreclosure charges for MSME, being informed helps you plan and manage costs effectively.
| Fee/Charge Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing Fees | Up to 3% on sanctioned amount + applicable taxes |
| Facilitation Fee | For loans with Sanction up to Rs. 25 lakhs - Up to Rs.5,000/- + applicable taxes For loans with Sanction above Rs. 25 lakhs – Up to Rs.10,000/- + applicable taxes |
| EMI Dishonour/Bounce Charge* *A bounce charge is a charge for (i) dishonour of any repayment instrument; or (ii) non-payment of instalment(s) on their respective due dates due to dishonour of payment mandate or non-registration of the payment mandate | As shown in the table below |
| Loan sanction amount (in INR) | Charges in (in INR) |
| < 5 lacs | ₹ 500 |
| 5 – 50 Lacs | ₹ 1000 |
| >50 Lacs – 2 Cr | ₹ 1500 |
| >2 Cr | ₹ 2000 |
| Penal Charge/Late Payment Charge (LPC) | Up to 2% per month (p.m.) on overdue EMI + applicable taxes |
| Part Prepayment Charges (For Term Loan) | Within 6 months of disbursement: Not allowed Post 6 months of disbursement: Up to 2% + applicable taxes on total part-prepayment amount |
| Part Prepayment Charges (for Dropline Overdraft / Hybrid Overdraft ) | Nil, Part - prepayment of Loan will not amount to limit reduction. |
| Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC) (For Term Loan) | NIL |
| Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC) (for Dropline Overdraft) | 0.5% + applicable taxes, on the Dropline limit starting on the 13th Instalment and every anniversary thereafter In the event the average utilization of the Dropline Limit Facility, calculated based on daily limit utilization of the Borrower, is less than 50% for the preceding 365 days, then the Lender shall charge the Borrower twice the Annual Maintenance Charges as stipulated in the Schedule |
| Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC) (for Hybrid Overdraft) | No upfront charges/Zero charges at the time of disbursement for the Hybrid Limit. 0.5% + applicable taxes, on the Hybrid Limit as on the 13th Instalment & every anniversary thereafter In the event the average utilization of the Dropline Limit Facility, calculated based on daily limit utilization of the Borrower, is less than 50% for the preceding 365 days, then the Lender shall charge the Borrower twice the Annual Maintenance Charges as stipulated in the Schedule. |
| Foreclosure Charges: |
|
| Repayment instrument Swap Charges (per swap): | Up to Rs.500/- + applicable taxes (applicable only for branch walk-ins) |
| Document retrieval / Duplicate NOC charges | Nil for digital copy. Charge for paper copy is Up to Rs.1000/- + applicable taxes per statement/letter/certificate. |
| Legal fees and charges: | As per actuals or Up to Rs. 50,000/- whichever is lower + applicable taxes |
| Recovery charges: | As per actuals or Up to Rs. 15,000/- whichever is lower + applicable taxes |
| Field collection service charge: | Up to Rs.500/- per collection + applicable taxes |
Reducing the cost of SME Loan processing fees and other charges requires careful planning and proactive measures. Here are some tips:
1. Compare Offers from Multiple Lenders
Use online platforms to compare processing fees, foreclosure charges, and other costs across different lenders.
2. Negotiate Terms
Approach lenders with a strong credit score and business stability to negotiate reduced fees.
3. Choose Loans with Transparent Terms
Opt for lenders who clearly outline all costs, avoiding SME Loan hidden charges.
4. Repay On Time
Avoid late payment penalties by setting up automated EMI payments.
5. Leverage Collateral
Secured loans generally come with lower fees and charges compared to unsecured loans.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Services
Decline add-on services or insurance plans unless they’re essential for your business.
Taking these steps can help you save significantly on your SME Loan fees and manage your cash flow better.
Most fees, such as processing charges, are non-refundable.
Processing fees for SME Loans at L&T Finance 3% on sanctioned amount + applicable taxes.
High fees increase borrowing costs, affecting your cash flow and reducing funds available for operations.
Yes, secured loans generally have lower processing fees and interest rates than unsecured loans.
You can contact our customer care to know if you can negotiate foreclosure charges.
SME Loan foreclosure charges vary based on the loan tenure. For loans foreclosed within 6 months of disbursement, a 10% charge applies. After 6 months, the charge is 5%, both calculated on the outstanding loan amount, plus applicable taxes.
Yes, you may get a reduced fee with a strong credit score.
Yes, longer tenures may increase the total interest paid, while shorter tenures could involve higher EMIs but lower overall costs.
Yes, prepayment or foreclosure charges apply, 2% plus applicable taxes on the pre-payment amount.
Read the terms carefully, clarify all costs upfront and avoid add-ons unless required.