Getting a loan

Last reviewed February 2026 i QUICK ANSWER Credit cards can help build your credit history when used carefully. But poor management can damage your score. The five main pitfalls are: carrying a high balance, going over your limit, withdrawing cash, maxing out your card quickly, and making multiple applications in a short period. When used…

Last reviewed February 2026 i QUICK ANSWER Financial associations link your credit file to another person’s. Even if you separate finances, the link stays unless you file a notice of disassociation with each credit reference agency.. What is a financial association? A financial association is a formal link between two people’s credit files, created when…

Applying for a loan should be straightforward, but sometimes gathering and submitting paperwork adds unnecessary stress and delays. Lenders are legally required to make sure your loan is affordable. To do this they will want to check your income and expenditure. Traditionally this has meant sending in paper bank statements. Open Banking is a secure…

In today’s digital world, convenience is important. That’s exactly what Open Banking offers. It lets you securely share your financial information with trusted and regulated providers, making tasks like applying for a loan easier and quicker. However, convenience often raises questions and concerns about safety, security, and privacy. Understanding open banking Open Banking allows you…

When it comes to applying for a loan, whether through a credit union or a traditional financial institution, it’s essential to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. Most people focus on the interest rate. However, several other factors can significantly impact the overall cost and suitability of a loan. Factors to consider when comparing…

There are several ways affordability is considered by lenders. Lenders are legally obliged to assess the affordability of a loan. Usually this involves looking at bank statements or (for a quicker decision) by opting in to Open Banking. The following tips outline several ways you can ensure your affordability isn’t impacted too much. The lenders…