Can you get a loan if you're unemployed?

Registered lenders must confirm you can afford to repay, so without any income a loan is almost never approved. If you have some regular income — a pension, grant, rental income, UIF payments or freelance work — you may qualify for a small amount. Offers of loans 'for unemployed, no questions asked' are usually illegal lenders or scams.

What lenders check

• Any regular income (UIF, pension, rental, grants, freelance)
• How long that income will continue
• Your credit record

Documents you'll need

• ID document
• Bank statements showing the income
• UIF, pension or grant letters
• Proof of address

Watch out for

• Scammers target job seekers with 'pre-approved' loans needing an upfront fee.
• Unregistered lenders may take your ID or bank card as security — that is illegal.
• Consider community support or payment arrangements with creditors before borrowing.

Can UIF payments count as income?

Some lenders consider them, but UIF is temporary, so amounts approved are small.

Can someone else apply for me?

A person with income can apply in their own name, but they become fully liable for the debt.

What about a surety or co-signer?

Few unsecured lenders offer this in South Africa; ask the lender directly.

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