Asaan Karobar Card vs Finance Scheme – The Real Difference?

May 25, 2025 Shaukat

If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or someone who’s thinking about starting your own business in Punjab, you’ve probably heard of the Asaan Karobar Card (AKC) and the CM Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme (AKF). Both are meant to help you grow your business, but they are not the same. Picking the right one can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not clear on how they are different.

Don’t worry though! In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know — from what each scheme offers to the key differences between them. So, whether you’re looking for an easy business card or a loan to help start your business, we’ve got you covered!

What is the Asaan Karobar Card (AKC)?

Let’s start with the Asaan Karobar Card. This isn’t just a regular card — it’s a special tool designed to help small business owners get easy loans and financial support in a quick and simple way.

Key Features:

Target Audience: The Asaan Karobar Card is specifically for small business owners who need help to grow their businesses.
Loan Amount: You can get small to medium loans, with amounts up to Rs. 10 lakh, depending on your business needs and eligibility. The loan comes with a 3-year term (36 months).
How to Get It: To apply, you just need to submit your business documents and wait for approval. It’s a quick and simple process! For more details, check out our post on How to Apply for the Asaan Karobar Card.
Usage: Once your application is approved, you will get the card. You can use it to withdraw your loan whenever you need, making it easy to manage your business finances. Once you apply, you can also check your application status.

How Does the Asaan Karobar Card Help You?

The Asaan Karobar Card is built to make things easier for you as a business owner. Here’s how it can benefit you:

Quick Access to Funds: With the card, you get fast access to your loan. You don’t have to wait for months like with regular loans.
Simple Application Process: Applying for the card is way easier than applying for traditional business loans. You won’t face tons of paperwork or wait for long approval times.
Flexibility: The card gives you the freedom to withdraw your loan as per your business needs. It’s flexible and adaptable to your situation.

Eligibility Criteria for Asaan Karobar Card?

To apply for the Asaan Karobar Card, you need to meet these basic conditions:

You must be a small business owner in Punjab.
Your business should have been running for at least 1-2 years.
You need to meet the government’s basic eligibility criteria, which includes submitting the necessary financial documents.

What is Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme?

Now, let’s talk about the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme. Unlike the Asaan Karobar Card, this scheme provides business loans directly to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help them grow and scale their business.

Key Features:

Loan Amount: The finance scheme offers larger loans, ranging from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 3 crore, based on your business needs. This is much higher than the loan amount offered by the Asaan Karobar Card.
Eligibility: This scheme targets established businesses that need a larger amount of funding for expansion or growth.
Approval Process: You will go through a more detailed application process. Your loan approval depends on various factors like business performance, financial health, and more. For more details on how to apply, make sure to check out our post: CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme Apply Online – Details.

How Does the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme Help You?

The Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme is designed for businesses looking for larger funding to help them expand. Here’s how this scheme can benefit your business:

Larger Loan Amount: This scheme offers larger loan amounts compared to the Asaan Karobar Card, making it ideal for businesses that need more significant funding.
Longer Repayment Period: The repayment period for the loan is typically longer — usually 5 years. This gives you more time to repay the loan and reduces the pressure on your business.
Focus on Business Growth: This scheme is specifically designed to help your business grow. Whether you need the funds for expanding operations, purchasing new equipment, or other major improvements, this loan will help you scale up your business.

Eligibility Criteria for Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme

The Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme is for businesses that meet the following criteria:

Your business must be established (usually operating for 2+ years).
Your business should have consistent revenue or show the potential for growth.
You need to meet the government-set eligibility criteria, which include providing financial documents and meeting other conditions.

Key Differences Between the AKC and AKF

Now, let’s see the real differences between the two schemes. Both are designed to support your business financially, but they cater to different needs and types of businesses. Here’s a comparison of Asaan Karobar Card (AKC) vs. Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme (AKF).

Key Points of Difference:

Feature	Asaan Karobar Card	Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme
Target Audience	Small business owners (new & existing)	Established small/medium businesses
Loan Amount	Small to medium loans (up to Rs. 10 lakh)	Larger loan amounts for growth (Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 3 crore)
Approval Process	Fast, simpler process	Detailed application process with more scrutiny
Repayment Period	Short-term repayments (3 years)	Longer-term repayments (5 years)
Eligibility	New businesses, basic criteria	Established businesses, detailed criteria
Use of Funds	Immediate cash for urgent needs	Funding for business expansion or large investments
Access to Funds	Fast withdrawal via card	Funds disbursed based on application approval

Which One is Better for You?

The question everyone has: Which scheme is better for me? Well, the answer depends on your business needs and goals.

Choose the Asaan Karobar Card If:

You need quick access to funds but don’t require a large loan.
You’re starting a business or running a small one and need simple financial support.
You value flexibility in accessing and using the funds as per your needs.

Repayment Reminder for the Asaan Karobar Card:

Access 50% of the loan within 6 months, no repayment required for the first 3 months, then repay 5% per month. The remaining 50% will be disbursed after timely repayments, and the full loan must be repaid within 24 months.

Choose the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme If:

You’re running an established business and need a larger amount of funding.
Your business is ready for growth and expansion, and you need funds for equipment, inventory, or other large investments.
You’re comfortable with a detailed application process and longer repayment terms.

Repayment Reminder for the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme:

Repayments start after 3 months, with flexible terms over 5 years, depending on the loan amount and business performance.

FAQs:

1. How long does it take to get the loan from the Asaan Karobar Card?

The process is quick. Once your application is approved, you can get your loan fast — much faster than normal bank loans.

2. How long does it take to get the loan from the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme?

This process takes a bit more time because they check your business details properly. After full approval, you will receive the funds in your account.

3. Can I use the Asaan Karobar Card for personal expenses?

No, you can only use this card for business things — like buying products, paying workers, or making your shop better. You can’t use it for personal or home needs.

4. Can I apply for both the Card and the Finance Scheme?

Yes, you can apply for both — but remember, both have different rules. Your eligibility and loan amount will depend on each scheme’s own conditions.

5. What if I miss a loan repayment?

If you miss your payment, there can be extra charges, and it might hurt your credit score. Try to pay on time. If you’re facing a problem, contact their help centers.

6. Is help available if I have questions or face problems during the application?

Yes, support is available! You can call their helpline or visit their websites for help.

Official Helpline & Websites

Helpline Number (for both AKC & AKF): 1786 (Toll-Free, Mon–Sat, 9 AM–5 PM)
Asaan Karobar Card (AKC): akc.punjab.gov.pk
Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme (AKF): akf.punjab.gov.pk

Final Thoughts: Which Scheme Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Asaan Karobar Card and the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme depends on your business needs.

If you’re looking for a quick and simple loan to support a smaller business, the Asaan Karobar Card might be your best option.
If your business is already established and you need larger funding for expansion, the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme is the better choice.

Both options are government-backed initiatives aimed at making business growth easier for the people of Punjab. The card offers speed and flexibility, while the finance scheme focuses on growth and larger investments.

Remember, whichever option you choose, the ultimate goal is to give your business the financial support it needs to thrive. Take your time, assess your business requirements, and apply for the scheme that fits your needs best.

Ready to take the next step? If you’re still unsure, do some research, ask questions, and apply today. Good luck on your business journey!