All FAQs
Browse through our collection of frequently asked questions about car finance.
What factors should I consider when choosing a car on finance?
Picking the right car on finance depends on multiple factors, from affordability to long-term costs. Below is a complete guide...
Should I buy a new or used car on finance?
Deciding between a new or used car on finance depends on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term financial goals
Is it better to buy a car outright or finance It?
Deciding whether to buy a car outright or finance it depends on your financial situation, long-term goals, and personal preferences. Both options have advantages and drawbacks. Here we go into more detail...
How do I know if I can afford the car I want on finance?
Understanding your budget and the total cost of financing is essential to making a responsible decision. We explain more here...
What proof of income do I need to provide for car finance?
Most lenders will require you to provide proof of income, usually from a recent payslip or bank statement. If you are self-employed they may also ask for a tax return.
What are the basic eligibility criteria for car finance in the UK?
Most lenders will consider someone eligible if they're over 18 years old, a UK resident with 3 years address history and 12 months employment history. They must usually hold a full UK driving licence.
Is there a minimum income requirement for car finance?
Yes, most lenders impose a minimum income requirement for car finance to ensure applicants can afford the monthly repayments, usually between £1000 to £1500 per month after tax.
Is car finance available for students in the UK?
Car finance is available to students in the UK, but it can be more challenging to secure due to limited or irregular income.
Is a credit check mandatory for car finance?
Yes, a credit check is typically mandatory for car finance in the UK. Lenders use credit checks to assess your financial history and determine your ability to repay the loan.
Do I need to be employed to get car finance?
Being employed is not an absolute requirement to obtain car finance in the UK, but having a regular source of income is essential.
Do I need a UK driving licence to qualify for car finance?
Most lenders require you to have a valid UK driving licence to qualify for car finance but at Match Me Car Finance we also have options for those with European or International licences.
Can non-UK residents apply for car finance?
Many lenders require applicants to have permanent residency or settled status in the UK. This is because car finance agreements are long-term commitments, and lenders need assurance that you will remain in the UK for the duration of the agreement.
Can I get car finance with bad credit?
Yes, you can get car finance with bad credit, but it may come with higher interest rates and limited options. You may also need to provide additional proof of income.
Can I get car finance if I’m self-employed?
Self-employed individuals can apply for car finance in the UK. However, the process may differ slightly from traditional employment because lenders need additional evidence of your income.
Can I get car finance if I have been declared bankrupt?
There are specialist car finance lenders who cater to people with poor credit histories, including those who have been declared bankrupt.
Can I apply for car finance jointly with another person?
Joint applications can be beneficial, especially if one applicant has a weaker credit profile or lower income. By combining financial profiles, you may increase your chances of approval.
Can I apply for car finance if I’ve recently started a new job?
Yes, you can apply for car finance if you’ve recently started a new job, but some lenders may view this as a risk due to the lack of income stability.
Am I eligible for car finance if I have a CCJ?
Yes, you can still be eligible for car finance if you have a CCJ, but your options may be more limited.
What is car finance income verification?
Some car finance lenders may require proof of income in the form of payslips or bank statements in order to verify your income.
Can new drivers get car finance?
Yes they can! New drivers can still secure car finance with little or no credit history, but there are additional factors to consider.