Tips for applying for a loan

1. Manage your finances.

Before you apply for a loan you need to make sure you will be able to make the loan repayments. First things first, have a good look at your finances. Start by creating a budget including all your annual expenses and yearly income. This will give you a clear view of your financial position. Once your budget is in place you can set up a savings plan for your deposit… and make sure you stick to it! Cut your debts and reduce the credit limit on your credit cards as this will help you with your loan application down the track.

2. Check your credit history.

Most lenders will run a credit check when you apply for a loan so it’s good for you to know your credit history. You don’t necessarily need to have owned a loan or credit card previously to have a credit file as just applying for a loan or defaulting on a bill might show up on your credit history. Also keep loan applications low as too many knock backs can reflect badly on you.

3. Find the right loan.

Do your research to find the loan that suits you best. Go back to your budget when deciding if weekly, fortnightly or monthly repayments are the way to go. Check if you can make extra repayments or can redraw on your loan if necessary. Can you live with a variable rate and the uncertainty of possible rate changes or do you prefer to know your exact repayments and go for a fixed rate? Learn about any fees or charges that come with the loan, it’s better to know them up front than get an unpleasant surprise later.

4. Be honest in your application.

Truthfully declare your income and include all your liabilities and expenses. If the lender discovers you have more credit cards than disclosed your loan may be declined due to non-disclosure. Also it pays off to be honest as you don’t want to overcommit and struggle with the loan repayments.

5. Gather your documents.

Create a checklist with all the documents needed for your loan application and tick them off as you collect them. You will need to provide copies of documents ready at hand but others might need to be requested from third parties and this can take some time. Incomplete applications may prolong the application process and be cause for loan refusal.