Loans Information for the UK

There are many reasons why people need to borrow money. It may be a loan for a new car, a family vacation, a wedding, renovating a home, or even for consolidating current debts. Money can be borrowed from a lending company, whether a bank or specialist loan company, through what is called a Personal Loan.

Generally there are two kinds of personal loans: secured and unsecured. How much you can borrow depends on the kind of loan you want and on your financial situation (which may include your credit history and employment status, for instance).

The amount lent for an unsecured loan is usually up to £25,000 for a term of between 6 months and 10 years. £25,000 is the maximum amount covered by the Consumer Credit Act, the law that regulates credit agreements between individuals and companies, and gives protection against unscrupulous lending practices.

Unsecured loan amounts can be higher but these will require your home or other property to be set up as collateral. The rate of interest varies depending on the type of loan and length of the repayment period. Usually interest rates are lower on larger loan amounts and on secured loans.

With so many lending companies out there ready to offer you a loan, it’s a good idea to take time to shop around first. That way you’ll be sure of finding and choosing the personal loan that’s best for your needs.