1. Purchase EMI is chosen during checkout

Merchant or purchase EMI is selected when you make the purchase. The transaction is created with an EMI arrangement through the issuer or participating merchant programme. The tenure, eligible cards, rate or no-cost offer and processing terms are usually displayed before you complete the purchase.

Tip: Purchase EMI lets you evaluate instalment terms before the transaction is completed.

2. Post-purchase conversion happens after spending

Some issuers allow eligible transactions initially charged normally to be converted into EMI later through the card app or support channel. Eligibility can depend on transaction size, merchant category, age of transaction and issuer policy. Not every posted charge can be converted.

Tip: Post-purchase EMI is an issuer option, not an automatic right.

3. Converting the wider outstanding can be a different product

Some issuers offer conversion of a larger statement or selected outstanding balance into instalments. That can combine multiple purchases and have pricing different from a merchant EMI. Treat it as a new financing decision. Compare APR, tenure, fees and what happens to future spending.

Note: Do not assume EMI means the same pricing regardless of how it was created.

4. Compare the exact offer, not the label

Two six-month EMIs can have different processing fees, interest, merchant discounts, tax treatment, foreclosure terms and limit impact. Capture total repayment and any discount you give up. That makes offers comparable in rupees.

Tip: The label six-month EMI is not enough. Compare the full economics.

5. Quick check

Which statement is most accurate?