FAQ

Common queries

Are you a lender, and can you approve a loan for me?

No. This is an information resource. We do not lend money, we do not make credit decisions and we cannot promise that any application will be accepted.

What does APR actually tell me?

APR expresses the yearly cost of borrowing as a single percentage, including interest and certain mandatory charges. It is most useful for comparing two loans of a similar size and term; it says less when the terms differ a lot.

Will comparing loans hurt my credit score?

It depends on how it is done. Many lenders offer an eligibility check that leaves only a soft mark, which others cannot see. A formal application normally leaves a harder mark, so it is worth using the soft route first where one is offered.

What is the difference between secured and unsecured borrowing?

A secured loan is backed by something you own, which the lender can claim if you stop paying, and it often carries a lower rate as a result. An unsecured loan has no such backing, so the lender takes more risk and usually charges for it.

Can I repay a personal loan early?

Often you can, but terms differ. Some agreements charge for early repayment and others do not. Check the agreement, and ask for the figure in writing before you decide.

Understand your preliminary loan result

Check the inputs and conditions behind an estimate before treating it as a written offer.