10 Best loan apps & sites for instant loan in South Africa (2023)

In South Africa, accessing a loan can be a daunting task. With the rise of technology, it is now easier to access instant loans through loan apps and sites. In this article, we will look at the 10 best loan apps and sites available in South Africa in 2023. We will discuss their features and use cases to help you make an informed decision when selecting a loan app or site for your needs. We will also provide an overview of the eligibility criteria for each app or site so that you know what is required to qualify for a loan.

Best loan apps and sites in South Africa

1. Lime loans

2. Better compare loans

3. Finchoice

4. Smart advance

5. Qwiekfin loans

6. Unifi loan app

7. Festa loans

8. Nifty Credit

10. Capfin loans

11. izwe loans

What types of loans can you get from money lenders in South Africa?

Personal loans

A personal loan gives you a lump sum or cash advance that has a fixed repayment period of between 12 and 72 months. Money lenders usually offer loan amounts between R10 000 and R250 000, and the loan can be secured or unsecured.

Secured personal loans require collateral, usually a house or car to secure the loan. However, most personal loans are unsecured, and you need a good credit score to qualify. Use personal loans to cover general needs, such as home improvement, weddings, and holidays.

Debt consolidation loans

Debt consolidation loans are useful to group all your loans into one. If you have too many of them and once they’re paid off, you’ll be left with just the debt consolidation loan. That means you have only one monthly payment and you’re paying interest on only one loan which can help you save money if you get a much lower rate.

A consolidation loan can pay for store accounts, payday loans, credit cards, student debt, plus more.

Student loans

A student loan helps to pay for tertiary education by providing cash which can be used to cover fees, books, accommodation, living expenses and other learning equipment and material. The loans are available for individuals (either a parent or student) with a good credit score and an acceptable income level.

Most student loans are paid off in two stages: First, there are monthly payments to cover interest only. After the student graduates and finds work, they repay the outstanding balance, again on a monthly basis.

Payday and short term loans

You should aim to pay off your short term loans as quickly as possible as they come with higher interest rates (typically within 6 or 12 months). They also limit the loan amount you can borrow since they are meant for emergencies or urgent needs. Payday loans are a type of short term loan that gives you money while you wait for your next payday. Some money lenders offer up to R8000, and you need to reimburse your debt within 30 days.

Car loans

Money lenders offering vehicle finance in South Africa not only provide new and used car loans, but you can also get money to buy a truck, caravan, boat or classic car. Car loans are usually secured, which means the car you’re buying guarantees the loan and the lender can claim it back if you don’t finish your payments. You can also apply for an unsecured car loan if you have an excellent credit score.

Where can you find money lenders in South Africa?

Money lenders in South Africa are available in the form of banks, credit unions and various financial institutions. CompareLoans specialises in online money lenders, and we feature several options in our comparison tables. Use the information available in the rest of the article to find the best option. Once you have your final selection, click “Go to Site” to visit the money lender’s website and submit your online application. General requirements for most loans include:

Minimum age of 18 years;

Copies of your valid South African ID;

Proof of income – Bank statements and payslips for the last 3 months;

A regular, monthly income; and

Proof of residence.

Comparing money lenders in South Africa

Eligibility requirements. Whether you qualify or get a loan depends on your income level, credit score, and other requirements set by the lender. Look for a money lender with requirements that you can easily meet.

Application process. Money lenders who offer easy online applications, fast approvals, and good customer service can make the money lending process more convenient for you.

Collateral. Ask yourself if you want a secured loan or an unsecured loan.

Interest rates. To reduce the total cost of your loan, find the lowest fixed rate or variable rate, you can get with your credit score. Also, check out the APR, which includes the interest rate plus all the additional fees.

Loan amounts. Money lenders have minimum and maximum loan amounts you can borrow.

Loan charges and fees. Before you sign the loan agreement, check the terms and conditions for all the fees you’ll have to pay. Look out for initiation, monthly service, early payment, and late payment fees that can make your loan too expensive.

Repayment period. Find out which money lenders can give you the repayment period you want. You can choose a longer term if you want smaller monthly repayments or shorter terms if you wish to reduce the total cost of your loan.

Loan uses. Make sure the money lender allows you to use the loan for the purpose you want. For example, some lenders won’t approve the use of personal loans for business or educational purposes.