If you are planning to take a
personal loan in May 2026, public sector banks (PSU banks) like sbi, PNB, bank of Baroda, Union bank, and Canara bank are still offering some of the
lowest interest rates in India compared to private banks.Let’s break it down clearly so you can understand where you can borrow cheaper.
🏦 Lowest Personal Loan Interest Rates (PSU Banks – May 2026)🥇 State bank of india (SBI)Interest rate:
~10.00% to 15.05% p.a.One of the most trusted lenders in IndiaSpecial lower rates for salary account holders
🥈 Punjab National bank (PNB)Interest rate:
~10.50% onwards (up to ~17%)Lower rates for government & salaried employeesOffers repo-linked pricing benefits
🥉 Bank of Baroda (BoB)Interest rate:
~10.40% to 18% p.a.Government employees may get ~10.40%–10.90%Salary account holders get better offers
🏦 Union bank of IndiaInterest rate:
~8.75% to 15% (best cases for strong credit)Among the lowest PSU rates for top borrowersRate depends heavily on CIBIL score
🏦 Canara BankInterest rate:
~9.70% to 15.15% p.a.Competitive PSU offeringLower rates for salaried customers
📊 PSU vs Private Banks (2026 Reality)TypeInterest Rate Range🏦 PSU Banks~8.75% – 15%🏦 Private Banks~10% – 24%+👉 PSU banks are usually cheaper, especially for salaried and government employees.
🧠 Who Gets the Lowest Personal Loan Rates?✔ You can get best rates if:CIBIL score is
750+Salary account is in the same bankStable government or PSU jobLow existing EMI burden
❌ Higher rates if:Low credit scoreSelf-employed with unstable incomeHigh existing debt
💡 Important 2026 TrendRBI repo rate changes directly affect personal loan ratesWhen inflation rises, EMIs also increasePSU banks adjust rates slowly but steadily
🏁 ConclusionIn
May 2026, PSU banks still offer the
cheapest personal loans in India, with rates starting around:👉
8.75% (best case – Union bank / top profiles)👉
10%–12% (common PSU range)👉 Higher rates apply based on risk and credit score✔ If your goal is
low EMI and long-term savings, PSU banks are the safest choice.
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