What are the Alternatives and Which One Should I Take?
Is it possible to get a loan while receiving Centrelink payments? The answer depends on what kind of loan you are interested in and the types of payments you are receiving…
What kind of loan are you looking for?
In short, the bigger the loan, the harder it is for anyone to get approved - regardless of whether they’re in full-time employment or receiving Centrelink benefits.
On one end of the scale, you have Centrelink home loans that involve hundreds of thousands of dollars, typically over 25 years. Without at least a 5% deposit, regular ongoing employment and a healthy credit history, they can be notoriously difficult to obtain.
At the other end are the shorter-term products such as payday loans. As they generally involve smaller amounts, a payday lender may (in some cases at least) be more likely to view Centrelink payments as acceptable income. Be warned, however - this type of loan can cause damage to your credit history and affordability if mismanaged.
Which Centrelink payments are not usually accepted?
If you're on JobSeeker Payment (formerly known as Newstart Allowance) or Youth Allowance, then getting finance of any kind can be quite difficult. These payments are largely not accepted by lenders as “income” because they tend to be considered short-term. So, if you’re looking for a five-year personal loan, lenders may wonder where the money for repayments will come from.
However, there are still a few ways you can get access to a loan if you’re receiving these payments.
One of the most common solutions is to add someone else to the loan. Finding a co-signer who’s in full-time employment, has a stable residential address, and a good credit history could significantly improve your chances of securing credit. Additionally, other strategies that could improve your chances include building savings over time, showing evidence of any side income, or demonstrating long-term stability in your financial situation.
Which Centrelink payments are considered as income?
Certain Centrelink payments are more likely to be accepted as income by lenders.
For example, allowances for carer or disabled individuals are generally acceptable and Veteran Affairs payments are also often counted as income.
See: Can I get a car loan on the Veteran's Affairs pension?
In addition, the following common Centrelink payments are often accepted by some lenders (depending on your financial and personal circumstances):
- Parenting Payment
- Family Payment A and B
- Rent Assistance
Still unsure where you stand?
Many of the less common Centrelink payments may also be accepted by some lenders, depending on your circumstances and the type of loan you’re interested in.
And we'll be happy to give you all the loan advice you need if you're receiving them.
Rapid Finance has over 20 years of experience in assisting with car loans on Centrelink. It has built a reputation for matching our clients Centrelink loan needs with the right lender, who may also offer bad credit personal loans. No matter your situation, we can help you find a suitable loan.
It's also possible to get a home loan on Centrelink.
Call 1300 467 274 to discuss your situation today.