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Independent financial commentary, rate updates and advisory content — written by our finance team.
Average short term loan rates in the UK — Q1 2026
We analysed rates across our full panel of FCA-regulated lenders to find the true cost of borrowing. The gap between the cheapest and most expensive lender is significant.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 7 min read
FCA updates responsible lending rules for short term lenders in 2026
New guidance from the Financial Conduct Authority tightens affordability assessment requirements for UK short term lenders, with key changes taking effect this summer.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 4 min read
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Likely Loans cuts representative APR for new customers this spring
UK lender Likely Loans has reduced its representative rate for new applicants, making it one of the more competitive options for borrowers with a fair credit history.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 3 min read
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What the Bank of England base rate hold means for borrowers in 2026
The Bank of England held the base rate steady at its latest meeting. Here is what it means for UK borrowers currently comparing short term loans and personal credit.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 5 min read
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How to improve your credit score before applying for a short term loan
Your credit profile directly affects which lenders will accept you and at what rate. Here are the steps that actually make a difference.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 6 min read
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Refinancing a short term loan — when it makes sense and when it doesn't
Refinancing can reduce your monthly payments but it is not always the right move. Paul breaks down the numbers so you can decide.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
March 2026 · 5 min read
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Salary Advance vs Short Term Loan: What's Actually Cheaper in 2026?
Salary advance apps like Wagestream, Salary Finance and Hastee let you access earned wages early. But are they actually cheaper than a short-term loan? We compared the real costs.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
April 2026 · 8 min read
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Why Debt Consolidation Loans Are Surging in the UK — And What to Do About It
UK household debt stands at £1.9 trillion. Consumer credit grew 8.5% in the year to February 2026. Here is what is driving the surge and what borrowers should do about it.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
April 2026 · 9 min read
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Open Banking Loans: How Lenders Now Use Your Bank Data to Say Yes
Over 90% of short-term lenders now include open banking in their application process. For borrowers with thin credit files, this is genuinely good news.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
April 2026 · 7 min read
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The Real Reason You Were Refused a Loan — And Exactly What to Do Next
Being knocked back for a loan feels personal — but it is not. Lenders use automated scoring systems. A refusal from one lender does not mean every lender will refuse you.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
April 2026 · 8 min read
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How NHS Staff and Key Workers Can Get a Better Deal on Borrowing in 2026
NHS staff have something most borrowers do not — demonstrably stable, government-backed employment. Here is how to use it to get a better deal on borrowing.
Paul · Head of Lending Research & Content
April 2026 · 7 min read
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