A guide to $5,000 loans

If you've got a decent credit score, you're only a few seconds away from finding the $5,000 loan you've been looking for.

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Name Product Interest Rate (p.a.) Comparison Rate (p.a.) Min Loan Amount Loan Term Application Fee Monthly Service Fee Monthly Repayment
NOW Finance No Fee Unsecured Personal Loan

From 5.95% (fixed)
5.95%
$5,000
18 months to 7 years
No Establishment Fee
$0
You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.95% p.a. and 17.95% p.a. based on your risk profile
Borrow from $5,000 to $7,999 with loan terms between 18 months and 3 years or borrow $8,000 to $50,000 with loan terms between 18 months and 7 years.

⭐ Finder Exclusive: Apply and settle a NOW Finance debt consolidation loan via Finder by 30 September 2021 for your chance to win $2000 paid off your debt. T&Cs apply.
Alex Bank Personal Loan

From 4.99% (fixed)
4.99%
$2,100
6 months to 5 years
$0 (Waived $295 establishment fee)
$0
You'll receive a fixed interest rate from 4.99% p.a. to 19.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
Borrow between $2,100 and $30,000 from 6 months to 5 years. Note: The $295 establishment fee will be waived for loan applications submitted by 3 November 2021.
OurMoneyMarket Personal Loan

From 5.45% (fixed)
6.07%
$2,001
1 to 7 years
From $250
$0
You'll receive a fixed rate from 5.45% p.a. to 20.99% p.a. based on your risk profile.
A personalised loan from $2,001 to $75,000 that varies based on your credit history and financial situation.

⭐ Finder Exclusive: Apply before September 30th 2021 to secure a discounted rate of 5.45% p.a. (comparison rate: 6.07% p.a.) for the first 12 months on loans over $35,000. T&Cs apply.
Plenti Personal Loan

From 6.39% (fixed)
6.39%
$5,000
3 to 7 years
$0 to $999
$35
You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.39% p.a. and 17.89% p.a. based on your risk profile.
A flexible loan with amounts from $5,000 and terms starting from 3 years. Interest and comparison rates calculated for a loan term of 5 years.
Harmoney Unsecured Personal Loan

From 5.35% (fixed)
6.14%
$2,000
3 to 5 years
$575 ($275 for loans of below $5,000)
$0
You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.35% p.a. and 19.09% p.a. based on your risk profile.
Apply for a loan up to $50,000 and repay your loan over 3 or 5 years terms.
Citi Personal Loan Plus
8.90% (variable)
9.18%
$5,000
3 to 5 years
$199
$0
You'll receive a guaranteed variable rate of 8.90% p.a. with a comparison rate of 9.18% p.a. if you're approved.
A credit limit up to $75,000 that you can continue to draw down over terms up to 5 years. Note: Monthly account service fee will be waived for applications submitted before 30 September 2021. The interest rate doesn’t change based on your risk profile, so you know your rate before you apply.
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed

From 6.99% (fixed)
7.91%
$5,000
1 to 7 years
$150
$10
You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.99% p.a. and 18.99% p.a. (7.91% p.a. to 19.83% p.a. comparison rate) based on your risk profile
Borrow from $5,000 to $55,000, with 1 to 7 year loan terms available. This loan comes with no fees for extra repayments and no early exit fees.
Symple Loans Personal Loan

From 5.75% (variable)
6.47%
$5,000
1 to 7 years
from 0% to 5% of the loan amount
$10

You'll receive a variable rate from 5.75% p.a. to 25.99% p.a.

Borrow up to $50,000 and earn 1 Qantas Point for every $1 borrowed.

⭐Special Offer: Earn up to 50,000 Qantas Points with a personal loan from Symple.
Great Southern Bank Unsecured Fixed Rate Personal Loan
9.39% (fixed)
9.64%
$5,000
1 to 7 years
$175
$0
You'll receive a guaranteed rate of 9.39% p.a. with a comparison rate of 9.64% p.a. if you're approved.
An unsecured loan from $5,000 with flexible repayments and no monthly fee.
Wisr  Personal Loan ($30,001 to $64,000)

From 6.49% (fixed)
7.11%
$30,001
3 to 7 years
$595
$0
You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.49% p.a. and 20.95% p.a. based on your risk profile
A loan from $30,001 that charges no fees for extra or early repayments. Keep in mind security is required in some cases.
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What to remember when comparing $5,000 loans

  • Lenders consider your current financial situation over your credit score: It's common to have difficulty being approved for a personal loan from many credit providers when you have a bad credit history. Opting for a bad credit lender gives you access to lenders that look at your current financial situation when considering you for a loan. However, it's important to remember that bad credit lenders generally charge high interest and fees.
  • Repayment terms: Some lenders may offer options of how to make repayments; direct debit repayments are offered by most lenders.
  • Bad credit loans are high cost: Due to the high risk of this loan, the lender will usually charge higher fees. However, keep in mind fees are capped by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC).
  • Loans over $2,001 come with high interest: While loans under this amount do not come with interest rates (only set fees), loans above this amount come with rates maxed at 48% p.a.
  • Disreputable lenders operate in the bad credit loans space: There are many disreputable lenders operating online that prey on people with bad credit, so it's important to thoroughly research the lender in question and consider if a bad credit loan is the best approach to the situation.

Are you struggling financially?


If you're struggling financially and would like to speak to someone for free financial advice, information and assistance you can call the Financial Counsellors hotline on 1800 007 007 (open from 9:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday). If you are suffering financial problems related to the coronavirus pandemic you may be eligible for additional support.

⚠️ Warning about Borrowing

payday-warningDo you really need a loan today?*

It can be expensive to borrow small amounts of money and borrowing may not solve your money problems.

Check your options before you borrow:

  • For information about other options for managing bills and debts, ring 1800 007 007 from anywhere in Australia to talk to a free and independent financial counsellor
  • Talk to your electricity, gas, phone or water provider to see if you can work out a payment plan
  • If you are on government benefits, ask if you can receive an advance from Centrelink: Phone: 13 17 94

The Government's MoneySmart website shows you how small amount loans work and suggests other options that may help you.

* This statement is an Australian Government requirement under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.

Which companies offer bad credit loans up to $5,000?

There are various options when it comes to finding up to a $5,000 loan with bad credit history. Click through to the review page to find out more details on these loan products.

LenderLoan amountEligibility criteriaFind out more
Fair Go Finance
$500 to $10,000
  • Earn at least $500 per week
  • Only considers Single Parent, Family Tax Benefit and Carer's Allowance for Centrelink income
  • Employed on a casual, part-time or full-time basis
nmoni
$2,001 upwards
  • Self-employed applicants must earn at least $35,000
  • Centrelink benefits cannot make up more than half of someone's income
More Info
Swoosh Finance
$2,000 to $4,584
  • 18 years old or over
  • Employed for at least 3 months
  • Australian citizen or permanent resident
Nimble
$300 to $5,000
  • Earn a regular income
  • Not be dependent on Centrelink benefits
Rapid Finance
Varies
  • Bad credit and self-employed applicants are considered
More Info
Wallet Wizard
$500 to $5,000
  • Bad credit, Centrelink and unemployed applicants are considered
More Info
MoneyMe
$2,100 to $5,000
  • 18 years old or over
  • Australian residents
  • Be employed
Good to Go Loans
$500 to $5,000
  • 18 years old or over
  • Receive regular income
  • Centrelink borrowers considered
More Info
Cash Converters
Up to $4,600
  • 18 years old or over
  • Australian resident
  • Earn over $750 per week
  • Be employed for at least 3 months
More Info

How do $5,000 bad credit history loans work?

Bad credit loans work in a similar way to standard personal loans, except with different fee and interest rate structures. These loans are more expensive because the lenders need to offset the risk of lending to those with poor credit histories. However, bad credit history loans up to $5,000 have capped fees and charges.

With bad credit loans, an applicant's credit history may or may not be checked. This will be disclosed by the lender beforehand. Most lenders will check a person's credit history to ensure that they are reasonably able to repay the loan, but lenders that advertise bad credit loans will not disqualify applicants based on credit history defaults. A number of lenders use the New Payments Platform (NPP) to make payments which allows the funds to reach your bank account within 24 hours.

$5,000 loans with bad credit interest and fee caps

  • One-off establishment/application fee
  • Maximum annual interest rate of 48%, which includes all other fees and charges

How much do $5,000 loans with bad credit cost?

When borrowing from a non-authorised deposit-taking institution, which is basically any lender that isn't a bank, credit union or building society, the following charges apply:

  • Loans under $2,000. These charge a 20% establishment fee and a 4% monthly fee. Both fees are calculated using the loan principal.
  • Loans of $2,001 to $5,000. These loans are repaid over 16 days up to 2 years. You cannot be charged more than a one-off establishment fee of $400 and a maximum annual interest rate of 48% p.a. which includes all other fees and charges.
  • Loans over $5,000. These cannot charge more than 48% p.a. including all fees and charges.

How bad credit history affects taking out a loan

There are some important points to consider before applying for a $5,000 loan with bad credit.

  • Check the eligibility criteria before applying: Lenders have set eligibility criteria that can be checked via the Finder review pages. Check the criteria online; if it's still not clear, call the lender to discuss the situation.
  • Order a credit report: A credit report is the most up-to-date and accurate recording of a person's financial history and this is what lenders use to judge creditworthiness. You can order a full credit report for free with Finder.
  • Compare options before applying: Make sure you'll be able to meet your loan repayments before starting the application process. It's important to remember that every application for credit you make shows up on your credit history. Therefore, it's best not to make numerous applications at the same time. It's also important to be crystal clear on the fine details of the loan before making an application or taking out a line of credit.

Payday loans aren't your only option. Make sure to compare payday loan alternatives before applying.

Compare $5,000 bad credit history loan options below

Name Product Maximum loan amount Term of Loan Turnaround time Arrears Fee Costs Fortnightly Repayment (for $5000 Loan)
Nimble Medium Loan
$5,000
up to 23 months
1 hour - conditions apply*
$15
Application fee of $400 + 47.62% p.a.
$262.75
Apply for up to $5,000 and have up to 23 months to repay.
Credit24 Medium Term Loan (Good Credit)
$5,000
12 to 24 months
Same day
$10
$400 establishment fee + 48% p.a. interest
$263.18
A small loan with long terms: Apply for up to $5,000 and have up to 2 years to repay.
Jacaranda Finance Personal Loan
$10,000
9 to 24 months
Under 1 hour - conditions apply
$35
$0 - $1,000 depending on credit
$226.47
Borrow up to $10,000 and get access to your funds in as little as 1 hour.
Fair Go Finance Personal Loan
$10,000
3 to 36 months
Within 24 hours
$35
from 17.9% p.a. + establishment fee of between $360 - $771 + $9 monthly fee
$238.07
A larger loan up to $10,000 you can apply for even with bad credit. Fast turnaround within 1 business day. Note: You must earn more than $500 per week.
Swoosh Finance
$4,584
60 days -12 months
Next business day
$35
$416 + 47% p.a. of borrowed amount
$244
A secured loan up to $4,584 you can apply for in 10 minutes. Have up to 1 years to repay what you borrow.
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Understanding bad credit

Generally, if someone has any black marks on their credit file (defaults or bankruptcies, for example), it's safe to assume they have some degree of "bad credit" history. However, as the degree of "bad credit" varies between people, one of the easiest ways to check if you have a bad credit rating is by checking your credit report and credit score. You can do this for free with Finder.

Having a bad credit history can make it more difficult to take out a loan and can result in lenders charging a higher interest rate.

When checking your credit report, you should look out for bad credit listings such as defaults, bankruptcies, late payments, debt agreements and excessive credit enquiries. Your credit score will also give you a good indication of your standing. The credit score you receive from Finder is from credit reporting agency Experian, and will be a number between 0 and 1,000. You can see a breakdown of the credit score ranges below from both Experian and Equifax – the lower your credit score, the more likely it is that you have bad credit.

Credit bandExperianEquifax
Excellent800–1,000833–1,200
Very good700–799726–832
Good625–699622–725
Fair/average550–624510–621
Weak/below average0–5490–509

What are the risks of $5,000 no credit check loans?

  • Disreputable lenders. Check the lender has an Australian credit licence and is not charging you more than ASIC allows. The lender should be easily contactable.
  • Unaffordable repayments. Consider the size of the regular repayments and ensure the loan is able to be repaid during the loan term. If not, extra fees apply to extend it. Be careful, since repayment periods for these kinds of loans tend to be shorter than regular loans.
  • Multiple applications. Every loan application shows up on credit reports. While lenders might not consider credit history, several applications within a short period can have a negative impact on your credit score moving forward.
  • Check rates and fees. Establishment and monthly fees are capped, so be wary of lenders quoting prices beyond the legal maximum amounts. Be crystal clear on what will be charged for late payments or a default on the loan. The total cost of the loan matters here – lenders can charge interest rates on top of everything else.
  • Long-term repercussions and legal issues. Once the loan agreement is signed, the customer is bound to its conditions until the loan and any associated rates and fees have been paid. Typically these loans are unsecured, which means that the lender can initiate legal proceedings against the customer if they can't repay.

Frequently asked questions about $5,000 loans

Some of the questions we get asked the most often in regards to $5,000 loans include:

How do I apply for a $5,000 bad credit loan?

You can apply to any of the lenders on this page by clicking "Go to site". This will take you directly to the lender's website, where you can submit an online application.

What happens after I send my application?

This will differ between lenders, but typically applicants receive a notification of approval (or not) along with further instructions for the next steps.

Are my details secure?

When you apply for a bad credit loan online up to $5,000, your details are securely transmitted over an encrypted connection. The majority of sites you apply through use 128-bit SSL encryption to ensure your details are safe and secure.

Can I get a $5,000 loan if I'm unemployed?

When an institution lends you money, it wants to be certain that you can repay the debt within the allocated timeframe. For people who are not employed, their income may be limited unless they are receiving Centrelink benefits. If the majority of income comes from Centrelink payments, they may still be eligible for a personal loan. Please read our guide to getting a loan on Centrelink before applying.

More guides on Finder

    Personal Loan Offers

    Important Information*
    Logo for Harmoney Unsecured Personal Loan
    Harmoney Unsecured Personal Loan

    You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.35% p.a. and based on your risk profile.
    Apply for a loan up to $50,000 and repay your loan over 3 or 5 years terms.

    Logo for ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan
    ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan

    You'll receive a fixed rate of 8.99% p.a.
    Apply for up to $50,000 to use for a variety of purposes without needing to add security. Available to self-employed applicants.

    Logo for NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed
    NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed

    You'll receive a fixed rate between 6.99% p.a. and 18.99% p.a. ( 7.91% p.a. to 19.83% p.a. comparison rate) based on your risk profile
    Borrow from $5,000 to $55,000, with 1 years to 7 years loan terms available. This loan comes with no fees for extra repayments and no early exit fees.

    Logo for SocietyOne Unsecured Personal Loan
    SocietyOne Unsecured Personal Loan

    You'll receive a fixed rate between 5.95% p.a. and 19.99% p.a. based on your risk profile
    A loan from $5,000 to use for a range of purposes. Benefit from no ongoing fees and no early repayment fee.

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    248 Responses

      Default Gravatar
      addhuJanuary 7, 2019

      looking for international lender quick and easy

        Avatarfinder Customer Care
        JohnJanuary 7, 2019Staff

        Hi Addhu,

        Thank you for reaching out to finder.

        Though the page we have does not have an article on international lenders available, you may want to check available local lenders or banks that are able to provide you a loan that you require. The page we are on is specific to the Australian geo. Hope this helps!

        Cheers,
        Reggie

      Default Gravatar
      LauraSeptember 14, 2018

      Hi I have an emergency n need to borrow $2.500 ASAP I try many places but refuse to help me because I’m not working at the moment due to health issues I get a Centrelink payment I can pay it back please need help urgently if anyone can help me ty.

        Default Gravatar
        JoelSeptember 14, 2018

        Hi Laura,

        Thanks for leaving a question on Finder.

        Sorry to hear about what you went through. Aside from the lenders on the table above, you can check our list of Centrelink loans to know which lender may consider you for a loan.

        When comparing short-term loans, ensure you take into consideration any fees, charges and rates you may be charged. It’s important to weigh up all your options before applying for any form of credit.

        If you’re experiencing financial hardship and would like to speak to someone for free financial counselling, you can call the Financial Counsellors hotline on 1800 007 007. It is open from 9:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

        Cheers,
        Joel

      Default Gravatar
      BrianJuly 28, 2018

      bad credit loans for students

        Default Gravatar
        JoelJuly 28, 2018

        Hi Brian,

        Thanks for leaving a question on Finder.

        I’m afraid, there are no interest free student loans in Australia considering you also have a bad credit score. We have a comparison of student loans that you can check out. Please check out the eligibility criteria for each loan provider before you apply so you would know what you are getting into. When you are ready, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the lender’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.

        Cheers,
        Joel

      Default Gravatar
      DebbieNovember 15, 2017

      How long does the process take am I gonna get at least something?

        Avatarfinder Customer Care
        JhezNovember 15, 2017Staff

        Hi Debbie,

        Thank you for your comment.

        The lender may usually contact you within 24-48 hours after you’ve submitted your application online. This is the reason why you should provide accurate details and necessary documents and information needed for a smooth processing. It would be best to contact the lender directly for an update.

        Regards,
        Jhezelyn

      Default Gravatar
      AndrewJuly 4, 2017

      How much a fortnight on $2000?

        Default Gravatar
        JonathanJuly 5, 2017

        Hi Andrew!

        Your repayment terms and eligibility will be discussed collectively upon application by your prospect lender.

        You may click “Go to Site” green button of your chosen to proceed with your application.

        Hope this helps.

        Cheers,
        Jonathan

    Go to site