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We currently don't have a partnership for that product, but we have other similar offers to choose from (how we picked these ):
Car loans suitable for single parents:
- Beyond Bank Low Rate Car Loan "Special Offer": 7.5% p.a. comparison rate. A limited time offer - get a car loan with a 6.49% p.a. variable rate.
- RACQ Bank Car Loan: 6.86% p.a. comparison rate. A car loan suitable for new vehicle purchases with no monthly administration fees.
- IMB New Car Loan: 6.59% p.a. comparison rate. A new car loan with no monthly service fees and no early repayment.
- bcu Car Loan: 6.8% p.a. comparison rate. A flexible car loan with redraw facility and fee-free early payout.
Why wouldn’t a single parent be approved for a car loan?
There are a few reasons why single parents might find it difficult to access car finance. As single parents rely on a sole income, they may not meet the financial requirements set by lenders. Their income may not be sufficient because they work part-time in order to take care of their children, or they may receive Centrelink payments. These financial constraints may also mean they are in debt, making it more difficult for them to be approved for a car loan.
As well, some lenders may not take into consideration what you may receive from Centrelink. Most of the time you’ll need a supplementary income to support your car loan application.
What car loan options do single parents have?
Loan type | Loan amount | Interest rate | Eligibility criteria | Find out more |
---|---|---|---|---|
Secured car loan | $3,000 - $100,000 | 4-13% p.a. |
| |
Short-term loan | $100 - $2,000 | 24% per $100 borrowed |
| |
Centrelink loan | $100 - $10,000 | Varies |
| |
NAB StepUP | $800 - $3,000 | 5.99% p.a. |
| |
No Interest Loan Scheme | $300 - $1,200 | 0% |
|
How to compare car loans for single parents
While you may feel you have limited options when it comes to car loans, it’s still important to compare what options you have available to you to ensure you get opt for the best one for you.
- Interest rate. The interest rate will be the main contributor to the cost of the loan, and so it’s important you find a competitive rate. Check whether the rate is fixed or variable and compare the rate on offer with that being offered by other lenders.
- Loan terms. This is how long you’ll have the repay the loan. Most lenders will offer you the option to choose terms of between one and five years for fixed rate loans and one and seven years for variable rate loans.
- Repayment flexibility. Are you able to line up your repayments to match your pay frequency? Are you able to make additional repayments without penalty? Can you repay your loan early? These are all things which you will need to find out about the loan.
- Fees. Most loans come with fees, but obviously some loans charge less than others. See what fees you will be charged upfront, check if there are ongoing fees such as monthly or annual account-keeping fees, and note any other fees that may be applicable.
- Additional features. The loan may also come with additional features, such as extended warranty or a loan redraw facility.
Things to watch out for
When comparing your car loan options, make sure you check the reputability of the lender. Some lenders may claim to help single parents with car loans, but then charge you extremely high fees and rates that can make it difficult for you to manage your day-to-day finances. If you’re unsure of your eligibility with a certain lender, it might be worth talking to them first to avoid having too many credit applications on your credit file.
How to apply?
To apply for a car loan you can compare your options using the comparison tables on this page and across the rest of finder.com.au. Once you’ve found a loan, make sure you check the eligibility criteria to see what your chances are of being approved. Then you can simply click "Go to Site" to be directed through to the lender’s online application form where you can provide your personal and financial details and wait to see if you’ve been approved.
As a single parent, it's important to call a few lenders to discuss your eligibility first. Applying too many times can affect your credit history and make you appear less appealing to lenders.
- Compare the best car loans*
- More information about car loans
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Hi,
Just wondering if I can go for a car loan. I just recently moved from Queensland to Northern Territory.
Hi Tanya,
Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.
Even if you have just recently moved, as long as you meet the financial requirements set by lenders – let’s say Centrelink payments, that should be fine. In addition, a supplementary income is helpful to support your loan application. On this page, you’ll see a table with the list of banks/lenders that you may apply for a car loan. It is best to check the eligibility criteria to see what your chances are of being approved.
Please note that it’s important to call a few lenders to discuss your eligibility first. Having too many credit enquiries through multiple applications in a short period of time can affect your credit history and make you appear less appealing to lenders.
I hope this helps.
Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any other enquiries.
Thank you and have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Jeni
I’m single mother with 4 kids Centerlink is my main income and I also receive child support,I have $7000 saved in my bank to help with purchasing a car,would I be able to get finance for a car worth between 20,000 to $25,000,
What would be best option
Hi Ems,
Thanks for your inquiry and welcome to Finder.
Since you’re on Centrelink payments, most lenders would require you to have an additional source of income to support your loan application.
Nonetheless, though we’re not sure if you’ll be approved for a loan or not, as a single parent, your options would either be secured personal loan, unsecured personal loan, or a payday loan.
Hope that helps.
Cheers,
May
I am a single mother of 3 on a single parenting payment from Centrelink, am I able to get a loan for a car I have someone who is willing to go guarantor for me on a loan
Hi Trish,
Thanks for your question.
You can find lenders that consider Centrelink applicants which includes short-term lenders and banks), you can also find a guide on guarantor personal loans, our guide on joint application personal loans.
You can select the “Go to site” button of your preferred lender to proceed with your application. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions. A gentle reminder, please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions to ensure that you got everything covered before you apply.
I hope this information will be of use.
Thanks,
Elizabeth
Wondering if a singel mothers with two children can apply for a car loan.
Hi Charlena,
Thanks for your question.
If the source of your primary income is not from Centrelink and you are currently employed, then you may be eligible for most loans featured on this page.
It’s advisable that you get in touch with a few of the lenders first to discuss your options and eligibility.
Cheers,
Shirley