Loans for the unemployed on benefits

If you’ve recently lost your job – or have been struggling to find employment – you may be looking for a quick loan to get you through the rough times.

Unfortunately, many lenders will deny borrowers on the ground of their lack of income. A lot of banks and financial institutions list a steady income from an employer as a prerequisite to be approved for a loan. These types of lenders are looking at a borrower’s capability to pay back a loan and only lend to people they are certain will be able to make repayments.

It’s a bit of a catch 22, because people who have steady jobs with a high income are usually in lesser need of a loan because they already have money coming in.

It’s important to note that the government does offer personal loans to the unemployed, however, these loans are for a small amount. This scheme is called the no interest loans scheme (NILS) and the maximum amount that’s able to be borrowed varies from state to state – but is generally under $1500. Many states have strict rules surrounding what the no interest loans scheme can be used for too, for example, in VIC the NILS can’t be used towards Emergency relief, bond or rent money, living expenses or debt repayment.

At City Finance we understand that people who are unemployed may be in a situation where they need money quickly, and we want to help these people. For that reason, we offer personal loans to people who are unemployed. We don’t require the borrower to have an income from a job, we just need them to have some sort of money coming in – this is usually in the form of unemployment Centrelink payments.

Applying for a personal loan if you’re unemployed is simple. In fact, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3, as you can see below.

What is a loan for unemployed people?

Loans for the unemployed is just that – it’s a loan program we offer to lend money to those who are unemployed and have found themselves having trouble getting approved for cash loans.

Typically, when a lender is loaning money to an individual they will undertake a credit check on them, as well as assess their job status and monthly income before approving the application. If the individual’s monthly income is below a certain amount – or their job isn’t considered ‘steady’ the applicant will likely get denied for the loan.

Unemployment loans are aimed specifically for unemployed people to be granted personal loans. With the pandemic still ravaging the world, unemployment rates have risen and many people have been left out of work. They have been left without a way to pay their bills and living expenses, which is where an unemployment loan can help.

Rather than running through a checklist of requirements for a loan to be approved, our team will individually take the time to assess your specific circumstances. They’ll speak with you to figure out what money you have coming in, what expenses you need to make or pay and tailor a payment plan that works for you.

Many unemployed people automatically assume that they will not get approved for a loan, so they don’t even both applying. Unemployed people who also have a low credit score may think that their borrowing options are even grimmer.

However, we are working to stop this assumption – we don’t want unemployed people to feel like they aren’t able to borrow money. We make it easy for unemployed people to quickly get approved for a loan with us. We’ve also approved hundreds of applications for people who are unemployed and have bad credit ratings.

If you’re unemployed and/or have a bad credit rating and are in need of a quick cash loan, get in touch with our friendly team to see if you’re eligible for a loan with us. If so, you could receive the money in your bank account the very same day. Recently found employment? Then one of our payday loans may be more suitable!

Different types of unemployed loans

At City Finance we have two different types of personal loans available to help unemployed applicants who’ve found themselves with money problems and need cash fast.

The first is a smaller loan that works well for small payments like paying your car rego or unexpected phone bill. The second type of personal loan we offer is ideal for applicants who have more costs they need to pay – like a rental bond or emergency home repair.

Below are our two types of loans for the unemployed:

A SACC (small amount credit contract)
With this type of cash loan, you can borrow between $500 and $2,000. The cost is a 20% upfront establishment fee (split across payments) and monthly fees of 4% for maintenance.

A MACC (medium amount credit contract)
If you require upwards of $2,000, you can opt for a MACC. With a MACC you can loan between $2,001 and $5,000. You will be charged a flat upfront $400 establishment fee (split across payments) and a 48% annual percentage rate. With this option, there are no monthly fees for maintenance.

Am I eligible?

Unlike many other financial institutions and big banks, we don’t have extensive eligibility criteria in order for you to be approved for a personal loan. If you’re interested in loans for the unemployed, the only income proof we’ll need is evidence that you’re receiving some sort of government benefits (this is usually a form of Centrelink payment).

Aside from this, we’ll require you to be 18 years or over and be able to provide a few months of bank statements along with your short application form.

We are happy to consider applications for the following:

  • Loans for people on centrelink
  • Loans for pensioners
  • Loans for people with bad credit

What supporting documents and information do we need to process your car repair loan application?

At City Finance the process of applying for a personal loan when you’re unemployed is simple. We don’t need a bunch of different documents, all we require is the following:

  • A copy of your ID
  • A short application form with details such as your address and phone number
  • Proof of your income (either wages or Centrelink benefits)
  • 90-day history of bank transactions

Been approved for a loan with us in the past? You could be eligible to apply for a no credit check loan.

Why choose City Finance?

Trusted lender

When borrowing money from a financial institution, it’s very important to make sure that they are a reputable company. At City Finance we have over two decades of lending money to thousands of Australians – often when other lenders wouldn’t help them out. You can comfortably borrow money from us and know that you are in safe hands.

Things move quickly

Loans are often associated with a lengthy process that requires a lot of paperwork and a long waiting time for approval. But what happens if you need money urgently? Unlike some other institutions, we move very quickly. Often, you can have the money in your bank account on the same day you apply for a loan with us. Read more about our same day loans.

Inclusive lending

At City Finance we’re all about helping Aussies who have had a hard time getting approved elsewhere. We believe a person’s repayment ability can depend on their circumstances – rather than figures like their income or assets. So, our friendly team takes the time to talk to each applicant to assess their application, discuss their personal situation and determine how much money they can borrow while still meeting their repayments. We strive to help as many people as we can, even if their criteria may appear less than perfect.

Flexible repayments

Nearly every loan is different – whether it’s the purpose of the loan, the amount borrowed, the repayment period timeline or the frequency of repayments. For this reason, we tailor each loan to suit the particular customer’s needs. Our team will work with you to figure out the best amount to borrow – and the best strategy to help you comfortably make repayments.

No hidden fees

We know that a lot of people get stung with unexpected hidden fees with other borrowers. We are very clear with our terms to ensure that this doesn’t happen to our customers. We don’t charge fees for early payouts or extra repayments.

Hassle-free borrowing

Accidentally missing a repayment can often leave you with extra charges that could have been easily avoidable. At City Finance we’ve implemented a hassle-free repayment scheme. We organise for the repayment amount to be direct debited from your bank account on the due date – making life easier for you and helping you avoid late payment fees.

What can I use my personal loan for?

Car insurance or repairs

Just because you no longer have a job, doesn’t mean that the bills slow down. In Australia, third-party insurance is compulsory in all states. So, if you drive a car, you’re going to need to pay this type of insurance at the bare minimum. The rate varies from state to state, however, the cost isn’t cheap. If you’re unable to afford car insurance and need to drive, you can get a cash loan from us so that you can stay on the road. Learn more about our loans for car insurance and repairs.

Medical expenses

Medical expenses are usually unexpected and the treatment is often vital. Avoiding medical treatment because of your dire financial situation is dangerous and can be life-threatening. It’s important to attend to medical problems straight away. If you don’t have the financial capabilities to do so, reach out to us for instant cash loans. Learn more about our medical loans.

Internet & phone bills

These days, almost all job advertisements are found on the internet. So if you’re searching for a job you’re probably going to need an internet connection. Furthermore, if you are successful with your job application, a potential employer will probably want to call you to schedule an interview. So you’ll need a phone for this too! To keep both your internet and phone services switched on when you’re unable to pay the bills, contact us for a quick cash loan.

Unexpectedly high electricity, gas & water bills

Pretty much everyone hates getting an electricity, gas or water bill in the mail. However, the bill stings a little more when you are unemployed and have no means to pay them. If it has been a particularly hot summer and you’ve relied on the air con a little too much, your bill might be higher than expected! Rather than panicking about how you’re going to pay these larger bills, contact us for a loan and pay these amounts off gradually.

Vet bills

A sick pet can be a heartbreaking experience and the cost of vet bills can be extremely high. If your pet falls sick when you’re unemployed you may find yourself in a moral dilemma, as you’re unable to come up with the money to make your furry critter get better again. Instead of worrying, contact us for a loan and we can provide the cash to pay the vet bills quickly. Learn more about our loans for vet bills.

Home repairs

Home renovations are nice – unexpected home repairs are not. If something important inside your house has broken it may need to be fixed immediately. Think a caved roof, burst pipe or a broken fridge. Some home renovations can cost a huge amount to fix, a cost that’s hard to meet when you are unemployed. If you find yourself in this situation you can contact us for a loan and get your house repaired ASAP. Learn more about our loans for home repairs.

Travel expenses

Just because you’re unemployed doesn’t mean you should have to miss out on having new experiences and enjoying your life. If you’re dying for a holiday or want to visit family interstate, but don’t have the cash to pay for it, we can help. Our quick loans can pay for your getaway, then you can gradually pay the amount back after you’ve enjoyed your holiday. Learn more about our holiday loans.

Can I borrow money while unemployed?

Can you get a loan if you're unemployed? An unemployed person can apply for a loan but will still need to earn an eligible form of income or have suitable income-earning assets to repay the loan.

Can I get a loan if I am on benefits?

Are you allowed to get a loan if you are on benefits? Yes, you are. There's no law to say that just because you receive benefits you can't get a loan and you shouldn't be discriminated against for this reason. However, whenever you apply for a loan, you'll need to show that you can comfortably repay it.

How can I get a loan if I do not work?

It's possible to qualify for a loan when you're unemployed, but you'll need solid credit and some other source of income. Whether you are unemployed unexpectedly or by choice (in the case of retirement), lenders will consider extending you a loan as long as you can persuade them you can make regular payments on time.

What is the easiest loan to get right now?

The easiest loans to get approved for would probably be payday loans, car title loans, pawnshop loans, and personal installment loans. These are all short-term cash solutions for bad credit borrowers in need. Many of these options are designed to help borrowers who need fast cash in times of need.