Credit to individuals is a practice that has already become part of our lives. With borrowed money, you can buy almost anything. It can be real estate, a car, household items, clothes, or a vacation booking. However, there are many details that a borrower must consider when applying for a loan from a financial institution.
Today, credit services are provided by commercial banks and non-bank financial institutions (finance companies, credit unions, microfinance institutions). This should be taken into account when choosing a lender and signing a loan agreement, as there are differences in the regulatory and legal framework between banks and non-bank financial institutions. Find out all the features of fast lending with the online payday loans app.
What is a credit?
A loan is a temporary use of money with an obligation to repay the amount owed plus interest (loan fee) within a specified period. It is usually characterized by four main features:
- The purpose of the loan is usually very specific (you must specify what you are borrowing the money for);
- Mandatory repayment (you must return the money);
- Payment (the payment is the interest accumulated on the loan amount);
- Collateral (your regular income or property, depending on the loan amount and the lender).
- The loan application process consists of several stages:
- Filling out a loan application;
- Getting your application approved;
- Signing the loan agreement;
- Receiving money or making a purchase.
You will need your passport to apply for a loan. The lender will automatically issue a decision (usually positive) on your application after you answer questions in the questionnaire about your place of work, income, assets, marital status, and personal passport information. Many reputable lenders offer a simple loan application you can complete online. In contrast to banks, microfinance institutions do not require a large number of documents from the borrower. They approve all applications almost immediately. Many borrowers agree to pay a slightly higher interest rate for convenience and speed.
Even if you are approved, you are under no obligation to accept the loan. You may receive several offers from different banks if you use a loan matching service. Compare these offers and choose the one that best meets your needs based on interest rates, loan amounts, and repayment terms.
Your next step will be the signing of a loan agreement. This is where you need to be very careful. Ask questions and clarify anything you don’t understand, no matter how long it takes. Pay particular attention to the amount and rate of interest. A payment schedule is usually shown separately. The agreement may also specify such items as loan servicing fee, one-time bank fee, loan debt management fee, etc.
The agreement also specifies penalties. Check carefully. Make sure you understand everything. Only if you are sure that everything is clear, you can sign.
And to conclude: to borrow or not to borrow?
Keep in mind the following conditions while making your final decision about a loan:
- Your income allows you to make regular payments without being late. It is not too significant for your budget.
- You have a stable projected income.
- You clearly understand the terms, conditions, and amounts of the loan agreement.
- You are sure that a loan is the best option for your situation.
