FAQ

Questions readers ask

Are you connected to any bank or finance company?

We have no connection with any bank, lender or broker. Our guides are not sponsored, and nothing we say is influenced by commercial relationships.

What does a typical loan agreement include?

It normally states the amount, the term, the rate, the repayment schedule, the charges and your rights. Reading these sections first covers most of what matters.

How do I know if my budget can handle a repayment?

Test it against your leanest month rather than your average one. If the payment fits there with something left over, it is far more likely to be sustainable.

Can I get a loan with a poor credit history?

Some lenders consider applicants with a weaker history, though the terms may be less favourable. We cannot say what any lender will decide, and caution is wise with offers that seem too easy.

What does it mean to be over-indebted?

It means your debts are heavier than you can reasonably sustain from your income. If you feel this is happening, free debt-advice services can help you consider your options.

Check the early-repayment questions

Find the settlement method in the agreement and prepare the questions needed for a dated provider calculation.