How Do I Get You A Loan?

At some point in most people’s life there is a need to borrow money. There are lots of ways to do this. For example, you can take out a loan, arrange an overdraft or apply for credit from a store or credit card provider. Before choosing how to borrow you need to know how much and how long you want to borrow for and look at all the options open to you.

Bank overdrafts

A bank overdraft can be a convenient way of borrowing if you only need a small amount for a short period. Overdrafts are more flexible than some other types of credit because you can use them whenever you want and you can borrow as much as you want up to your overdraft limit. But bear in mind that an overdraft facility can be reduced or withdrawn by your bank at any time

Loans

If you need to borrow a larger sum over a longer period then a loan may be more suitable. Loans are offered by banks, building societies and other financial organisations and you often don’t have to be an existing customer to apply.

There are two types of loan:

• Unsecured loans – With this type of loan you borrow a fixed amount for a set period and the rate of interest is usually fixed. Providing you make all the repayments, the money you borrow plus any interest due will be repaid in full by the end of the loan. You can generally borrow from around £1,000 up to £25,000 over one to seven years. If you think you may be able to pay off the loan early check with the lender how much it will charge.
• Secured loans – With a secured loan you borrow money using your home as security.  If you don’t keep up the repayments you risk losing your home as the debt is secured against it. Homeowner secured loans can last from one year up to 30 years and you can generally borrow from around £5,000 up to £500,000.

Credit cards

You can borrow money by paying for goods and services with a credit card. You will be given a credit limit on your card. The card provider will base this on your income, existing debts and how you have handled credit in the past.  If you pay off your credit card bill in full each month there is no interest to pay on purchases. If you don’t, you’ll have to pay interest on the outstanding balance. Average interest rates on credit cards are around 18%.

Other forms of borrowing

Other ways of borrowing include loans from credit unions, peer to peer loans, store cards and payday loans (which should only be used as a last resort).

Free debt advice

If you’re struggling with your debts it’s a good idea to talk through your situation with a recognized debt advice agency such as the Citizens Advice Bureau or National Debtline. These organisations offer free, unbiased debt advice.

Protection

Borrowing money from companies that are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority gives you better protection and you will be able to complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service if you are unhappy with how a company has dealt with a complaints.