Lainajärjestely

Lainajärjestely is a term used to describe an arrangement between a borrower and a lender to modify the terms of a loan in order to facilitate repayment or manage debt. The goal is typically to prevent default and preserve the ongoing borrower–lender relationship, rather than to terminate the loan.

Typical forms of a lainajärjestely include extending the repayment period, deferring payments for a time, reducing or adjusting the interest rate, capitalizing accrued interest, changing the payment schedule, consolidating multiple loans into one, or replacing an existing loan with a new agreement. The arrangement can be informal and documented in writing by the parties, or part of a more formal process depending on jurisdiction and the size or complexity of the debt.

The process generally starts with a review of the borrower's financial situation, followed by negotiations with the lender. In many cases, a financial advisor or debt counselor supports the borrower. If an informal agreement is not possible or a formal procedure exists, the terms may be established through a formal debt restructuring process or other legal mechanisms.

In Finland, for example, many loan modifications are handled directly by banks or lenders on an informal basis, but formal debt arrangements, or velkajärjestely, can be pursued under specific legal frameworks. A lainajärjestely may therefore be part of broader debt-management or insolvency procedures in some contexts.

Effects and considerations include improved cash flow and reduced risk of default, but potential downsides can include a longer repayment period, higher total interest, fees, or impacts on credit reports. Not all lenders offer such arrangements, and terms are highly case-specific.