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Easy Payment Plan (EPP) in Malaysia – Ultimate Guide to 0% Instalment Plans

14 min read
Easy Payment Plan (EPP) in Malaysia – Ultimate Guide to 0% Instalment Plans

Managing big expenses can feel scary. Yet, with the Easy Payment Plan (EPP), you can spread the cost of your purchases over months without paying any extra interest.

In Malaysia, banks call this feature EPP, while some label it Flexi Payment Plan (FPP).

Whatever the name, it works the same way: you swipe your Epp credit card, choose a tenure, and pay the same amount each month under a 0% interest instalment plan.

This guide will explain EPP, how it works, why Malaysians love it, and how to use it smartly. Ready? Let’s dive in!

What is an Easy Payment Plan (EPP)?

An Easy Payment Plan (EPP) is a service your bank offers on your credit card. You can turn that one-off payment into fixed monthly installments when you shop at a participating store. It’s a 0% interest instalment plan—so long as you pay on time, the bank won’t tack on any interest fees.

In Malaysia, you often need to spend a minimum amount, usually around RM 500, to qualify. Once you hit that threshold, you can select tenures like 6, 12, 24, or even 36 months.

The bank then splits your purchase into equal chunks. Meanwhile, your credit limit is held for the full amount but is released bit by bit as you pay.

Put simply, what is EPP? It is your credit card’s friendly mini‑loan.

You get to pay later, without extra cost. Since it uses your existing credit line, there’s no additional paperwork—no loan application, no long approval wait. Just choose epp at checkout, and you’re set.

How Does a 0% EPP Work in Malaysia?

When you shop with your epp credit card at a merchant that offers EPP, you can spread the cost over several months.

First, look for the 0% Easy Pay or EzyPay logo at checkout. Then choose your tenure: 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, or 36 months. The bank splits your complete purchase into equal monthly installments and applies a 0% interest installment plan for the entire period.

To join an EPP, most banks require a minimum amount of spending. You need to spend at least RM 500 in a single transaction. Some programmes—like Maybank EzyPay or CIMB 0% Easy Pay—may set the bar at RM 1,000.

Always check your card’s terms before you buy.

During your installment period, you pay no interest, as long as you settle each month on time.

Your bank places a hold on your entire purchase amount, reducing your available credit.

Each time you make an instalment payment, the hold is gradually released, restoring your credit limit. Knowing these facts helps you plan your spending.

You can start an EPP in two ways:

  1. At Checkout: Tell the cashier you want to use the instalment option before you pay.
  2. Convert After Purchase: Call your bank or use its app to turn a recent charge into instalments (some banks charge a small fee for this).

The key is simple. You avoid the usual 15–18% annual interest on credit card balances. Instead, you stick to your plan and pay zero interest. Remember: if you miss an installment, the bank may cancel your 0% deal and charge regular interest on the remaining balance.

Benefits of Using EPP for Your Purchases

Using an EPP comes with many advantages. It helps you budget and get more from shopping, not just splitting payments. Here are some key benefits of using an Easy Payment Plan:

No Interest (Savings)

With EPP, you pay zero interest on your installments instead of the typical 15–18% per annum on revolving credit. This advantage makes it a free financing option when you stay on schedule.

Plus, you avoid hidden or compounding costs—your monthly amount never changes.

Affordability

EPP lets you own big‑ticket items—like smartphones, appliances, or furniture—without a hefty upfront payment.

Spreading RM 3,000 over 12 months into RM 250 instalments frees up cash for other needs, such as groceries or utilities. This smooths out your monthly budgeting and prevents sudden budget shocks.

For example, if your fridge costs RM3,000, a 12-month 0% installment plan means you pay only RM250 each month—much easier on your wallet and more transparent for planning.

Cash Flow Management

Equal, predictable installments help you avoid one major hit to your budget. You can plan purchases during busy times—festive seasons or school openings—without draining your savings.

It also lets you keep an emergency fund intact instead of using it for a single expense.

Convenience

Setting up EPP is as simple as swiping your credit card and opting in at checkout—no loan application or extra approval needed. Because it uses your existing credit line, processing is instant, and paperwork is minimal. You simply select in-store or online installments, and the process is complete.

Rewards and Perks

Your EPP spend still earns credit card points, miles, or cashback, just like any regular purchase. Many banks also run special promotions—extra rebates or bonus points—when you use installments at select merchants.

Over time, these perks add extra value on top of zero‑interest financing.

Where Can You Get an EPP? (Major Banks & Programmes)

Almost every major bank in Malaysia offers an EPP programme on its epp credit card. Here are some of the top options available:

Maybank – EzyPay

Maybank’s EzyPay lets you split purchases into equal payments over up to 36 months with a 0% interest installment plan. You simply shop at any of Maybank’s partner merchants—electronics, furniture, or lifestyle outlets—swipe your epp credit card, and opt in for EzyPay. There are no processing fees, and the vast network of retailers means you can use it almost anywhere.

CIMB – 0% Easy Pay

CIMB’s 0% Easy Pay allows tenures from 3 to 36 months at many electronics and home‑furnishing stores. After selecting the installment option at checkout, your purchase is converted into equal monthly payments with 0% interest. Most outlets do not charge any upfront or handling fees, making it a straightforward way to manage big buys.

(If you wish to learn more, you can read about our selection of the best CIMB credit cards.)

Public Bank – Zero Interest Instalment Plan

Public Bank’s Zero Interest Instalment Plan covers up to 24 months of tenures. To qualify, you need a minimum spend of around RM 500 to RM 1,000 in a single transaction. Once you meet the threshold, your purchase is divided into fixed monthly installments with zero interest, helping you budget significant expenses into smaller, predictable amounts.

(Check out Public Bank’s best credit cards if you want more options.)

OCBC – Easy Payment Plan

OCBC’s Easy Payment Plan offers 0% interest on installments for up to 20 months. While there is a one‑time handling fee (about 4%) for 12 months or more extended plans, you benefit from instant approval using your existing credit limit. This makes OCBC’s plan ideal if you need medium‑term financing and don’t mind a small fee in exchange for flexible repayment.

RHB – Smart Instalment

RHB’s Smart Instalment Program gives you a choice of 6, 12, or 24 months at 0% interest. You pay the same amount each month, and many participating merchants run cashback or rebate campaigns when you use this plan. The combination of fixed payments and extra promos makes it easy to plan and save.

HSBC – Card Instalment Plan

HSBC’s Card Instalment Plan lets you turn any purchase into a 6- to 36-month installment with no additional fees. You still earn your regular credit card rewards on every ringgit you spend. This plan is perfect for those who want long tenures and want to maximise points without extra costs.

Aside from the instalment plan, check out our top picks of HSBC’s credit cards.

Bank Islam – RSVP & Instalment Plans

Bank Islam’s RSVP & Instalment Plans cover tenures from 3 to 36 months with low minimum spend requirements, sometimes as little as RM 150. There are no handling fees; you enjoy the same 0% interest benefit. This plan is ideal for smaller purchases or those who prefer shorter holds on their credit line.

Note: If your bank isn’t listed here, check your credit card’s benefits. Most Malaysian banks include a similar Flexi Payment Plan (FPP) or EPP feature that works similarly.

EPP vs BNPL – What’s the Difference?

EPP vs. BNPL – What’s the Difference_

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services like Atome, Grab PayLater, and Shopee PayLater let you split payments without a credit card.

You sign up for an installment plan in an app and pay over weeks or months. It’s popular for online shopping and small, everyday buys.

Requirements: EPP needs a credit card (subject to credit approval, available limit, and age/income rules). On the other hand, BNPL only requires an account with the provider, which is handy for shoppers without cards.

Interest & Fees: Both typically offer 0% interest. BNPL providers earn via merchant fees or late‑payment charges, while EPP is a bank perk. If you misinstall a BNPL and incur late fees, you may miss one on EPP, and regular credit card interest may apply.

Where You Can Use It: BNPL is common at online checkouts and select stores, usually for smaller buys (a few hundred ringgit). EPP is offered in many physical retailers (electronics, furniture, etc.) and suits larger purchases. It is often promoted by bank logos at payment counters.

Spending Limits: Your EPP capacity is tied to your card’s credit limit, which can be substantial. New BNPL users start with lower limits that may grow over time, but rarely match a credit card’s buying power.

Consumer Protection: EPP is regulated by banking regulations. Since 2023, Bank Negara Malaysia has also overseen BNPL firms, requiring more transparent fees and basic credit checks.

Which to Choose?

EPP offers longer tenures, higher limits, and reward‑earning opportunities if you have a credit card. If you need quick, small‑value instalments without a card, BNPL is a good alternative. Always spend within your means.

Bonus Insight: BNPL use in Malaysia has surged, causing a 9% drop in credit card usage among BNPL users. Yet credit card EPP offers higher spending power and extra perks for big-ticket items.

How to Apply & Use an EPP (Step-by-Step)

Ready to take advantage of an EPP for your next purchase? It’s easy to do. Here’s a simple 7-step guide on how to activate and use an Easy Payment Plan:

Step 1: Check your credit card and limit

Ensure you have a credit card that offers EPP (most do) and enough available credit limit for your purchase. If your card is almost maxed out, pay it first so the EPP can go through.

Step 2: Plan what you want to buy (and where)

Identify the product you need and its cost. Check if the store or website offers a 0% EPP on your credit card for that amount.

Many stores display stickers or signs for participating banks and the available instalment tenures (e.g., “0% instalment up to 12 months with Maybank”).

If you’re not sure, ask the sales staff or look on the website for payment options.

Step 3: Meet the minimum purchase amount

Ensure your purchase meets the minimum amount required for EPP (usually around RM500 in a single transaction). EPP won’t be available if your item’s price is below the minimum.

Step 4: Request EPP at checkout

When paying, inform the cashier (or select the option online) that you want to use the Easy Payment Plan.

They usually let you choose the instalment tenure (how many months). Choose a tenure that makes your monthly payment comfortable.

The cashier will then process your credit card for the full amount, but label it as an EPP transaction for the chosen duration.

Step 5: Confirm the monthly payment details

Before leaving the store or finalising the online order, double-check how much your monthly instalment will be and for how many months. For instance, “RM200 per month for 12 months.”

Knowing precisely what you’ll need to pay each month is good. Keep the receipt or take a screenshot of the confirmation for your records.

Step 6: Pay your credit card bill on time each month

When your credit card statement arrives, it will include the EPP instalment amount as part of the amount due. Pay at least that instalment (ideally, pay off your whole bill if possible) by the due date.

Staying timely with payments ensures you keep the 0% interest benefit. Set reminders if needed so you don’t accidentally miss a payment.

Step 7: Monitor until fully paid

Keep track of your remaining payments. Your credit card statement may show the remaining months or balance of your EPP. Knowing when your plan ends helps you plan future spending as well.

Once you’ve paid all installments, your purchase is fully settled. Contact your bank if something looks wrong (for example, if an instalment isn’t reflected correctly).

Following these steps will help you smoothly use an EPP.

Essentially, it’s about planning your purchase, informing the bank (through the checkout process) that you want to split payments, and paying on time each month.

Tips for Making the Most of EPP (and Avoiding Pitfalls)

EPP is a fantastic tool, but you should use it wisely, like any financial tool. Here are some tips to help you get the most benefit from EPP while steering clear of any problems:

  • Budget Accordingly: Treat EPP like a real loan, not free money. Before you opt in, check your monthly budget to be sure you can cover every instalment for the whole tenure. Even at 0% interest, missing a payment can cost you extra fees. Plan so that each payment fits comfortably in your spending.
  • Choose the Right Tenure: Match your plan length to the item’s lifespan. Don’t pick a 36‑month plan for a gadget that may be outdated or break in a year. Longer tenures lower your monthly amount but tie up your credit limit longer. Shorter tenures clear the debt faster and free up your limit sooner.
  • Pay On Time, Every Time: This tip is crucial. If you miss an instalment, the bank can cancel your 0% deal and charge normal credit card interest on the remaining balance, plus late fees. To avoid this, set calendar reminders or arrange auto‑debit so payments go out on time. Consistent on‑time payments keep your plan truly interest‑free.
  • Avoid Unnecessary EPP for Small Purchases: Only use EPP for significant or urgent purchases. Paying in full is simpler if you can afford something small, like RM 100. Splitting tiny amounts into instalments can clutter your statement and hold your credit for little benefit.
  • Don’t Max Out Your Card with EPP: Remember, the full purchase amount is held against your credit limit until you finish all instalments. If you set a RM 5,000 plan on a RM 6,000 limit card, you only have RM 1,000 left until you pay down some instalments. Always leave a cushion for emergencies or other needs.
  • Be Mindful of Merchant Restrictions: EPP usually applies to tangible goods—electronics, furniture, and appliances. Avoid using it for services that might end or become unusable before you finish paying, such as gym memberships or travel packages. If the service ends, you could still be on the hook for installments.
  • Check for Promotions: Banks often run special EPP deals during festive seasons or sales, like extended tenures or extra cashback. Watch your bank’s website, app alerts, or promo emails. Taking advantage of these offers can mean even more savings.
  • Keep Records: Review your monthly credit card statements to ensure your instalment is correct. The charge should appear as an EPP transaction with the right amount. If anything looks wrong, immediately contact your bank to fix errors and avoid unexpected interest.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the advantages of Easy Payment Plans while avoiding the common pitfalls. The goal is to make your life easier, not complicate it, so use EPP as a helpful friend to your budget, not a ticket to overspending.

Conclusion – Shop Smart with EPP

Easy Payment Plans (EPP) let Malaysians manage significant expenses by splitting costs into 0% interest instalments. When used wisely—by choosing the right tenure, paying on time, and monitoring promotions—EPP offers the flexibility to get what you need now and pay over months without extra fees.

In 2025 and beyond, banks continue expanding EPP networks, adding more partner merchants, longer tenures, and special deals. Before you buy, compare EPP options and consider BNPL for smaller purchases. The key is discipline: only spend what you can repay. You can improve your cash flow by mastering EPP’s features and pitfalls. Shop bright today with EPP and always save more!

Samantha Lim, a finance writer from Malaysia, combines her Finance degree and industry experience to offer expert insights on personal finance and economic trends. Known for her clear, practical advice tailored for the Malaysian market, Samantha's writing empowers readers to make informed financial decisions and achieve success in Malaysia's financial landscape.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.