FAQ

Most popular questions...

• What is Responsible Lending?

  At People's Choice Credit Union we understand that credit is a very important facility which allows you to achieve your personal, financial or lifestyle goals faster than you could if you had to rely on your savings alone.

  As a mutually owned financial institution we embrace our responsibility to understand your personal situation when we make recommendations regarding providing, extending or arranging credit for you. This is to ensure you are reasonably likely to meet the obligations you have in respect of repaying the debt and avoid experiencing financial stress.

  But we recognise that situations may change from time to time which may inhibit your ability to meet your credit repayment obligations. We understand the pressures that you and your family may experience during these difficult times and we work with you to find a mutually acceptable solution to aid in your overall debt management strategies and to continue to work with you to achieve your financial goals.

• How do I find out a payout figure on my personal loan?

  We can give you a payout figure for any set date by calling us on 13 11 82 or visiting your local branch. This payout figure will only be valid for the date requested. The balance that you view in internet banking does not include any interest accrued.

• Will my credit rating be affected if I access assistance?

  Getting on top of your financial difficulties early is the best way to make sure your credit history remains in good condition. Get in touch with us as soon as you think you might have difficulty meeting your repayments so we can start working together on a solution.

• I'm after some information on managing payments to my People's Choice loan or credit card. Who do I call?

  You can call People's Choice Credit Union on 08 8124 2148 . For more information, visit the Customer-Owned Banking Association website or you can call The National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 from anywhere in Australia to talk to a free and independent financial counsellor.

• How do I refinance a personal loan?

  To refinance an existing personal loan from People’s Choice or from another financial institution, to a personal loan with People’s Choice, you will need to apply to refinance either online, by calling us on 13 11 82 or by visiting your nearest branch.

  
  During your application you will be required to provide some documentation so we can assess your situation. Examples include:

  • Loan repayment history – for the previous three months
  • Bank statements

  If you are applying to refinance online, please select Refinance as loan purpose on the online application form.

More questions...

• What is the difference between debt consolidation and refinancing?

  Debt consolidation is the process of combining (consolidating) all of your debts into the one debt. The benefits of debt consolidation are to potentially save you money and to make it easier for you to manage your debt with a single repayment.

  Refinancing is the process of replacing your current debt, such as a personal loan or home loan, with a more favourable debt often at another financial institution. The benefits of refinancing varies, however usually a more favourable debt includes lower interest rates or ongoing fees, potentially saving you money over time.

• What are the benefits of refinancing my existing personal loan with People’s Choice?

  Refinancing your existing loan or consolidating debt with People’s Choice can help you reduce account fees and interest payments, and save you money.

  You can apply to refinance an existing personal loan with People’s Choice online, over the phone or in a branch.

  During your application you’ll be required to provide three months of loan repayment history and bank statements.

• Can I refinance my personal loan?

  Yes, you might be able to refinance your personal loan. You can apply to refinance an existing personal loan from People’s Choice or from another financial institution,  to a personal loan with People’s Choice either online, by calling us on 13 11 82 or by visiting your nearest branch.

  
  During your application you will be required to provide some documentation so we can assess your situation. Examples include:

  • Loan repayment history – for the previous three months
  • Bank statements

  If you are applying to refinance online, please select Refinance as loan purpose on the online application form.

• What options are available to me if I can't pay my People's Choice loan or credit card?

  A range of solutions are available to members who might be going through financial hardship. We can tailor a plan depending on individual circumstances, and advise you of organisations who may be able to help.

• If I’m looking for a car, can I get a loan approved before I find the car I want?

  Yes, we can conditionally approve a Personal Loan for you before you buy.
  You just need to submit an application form, let us know how much you want to borrow and we’ll review your application.
  
  We offer 90 day pre-approval to give you time to find the car that is right for you.

  You can apply for a Personal Loan online, by calling 13 11 82, or by visiting your nearest branch.

• How do I apply for a Personal Loan?

  You can apply for a Personal Loan online, by calling 13 11 82, or by visiting your nearest branch.
  
  Make sure you have the following information at hand when applying:

  • Income details – pay slips, child support, pensions, overtime, allowances, rental income, commissions etc
  • Expense details – utility bills, rent, board, loan repayments, credit and store cards, maintenance, lease payments etc
  • Asset information – cash savings, value of motor vehicles, shares, bonds, property, furnishings etc
  • Residential and employment details for the last three years
  • Australian driver’s licence number and expiry
• How much can I borrow to purchase a car?

  Our Personal Loans start from as little as $2,000³ and our Discounted Personal Loans start from as little as $10,000^1,2.
  
  The maximum loan is based on the amount that you can afford to repay.
  Calculate how much you can borrow with our free Personal Loan Calculator.

• Do I have to be a People's Choice Credit Union member to apply for a car loan?

  No, you can apply for a personal loan with People's Choice even if you are not a member.
  
  If you're not currently a member, you'll need to become a member before the car loan can be finalised.
  
  And have no fear, it’s a quick and simple process!
  
  Click here to become a member with People's Choice.

• I'm worried that I won't be able to repay my People's Choice loan or credit card. What should I do? 

  You should get in touch with us as soon as possible if you think you might have trouble meeting your financial commitments. You don`t have to wait until you are overdue.We'll then work with you to tailor a plan that helps you stay on top of your repayments. You can call People's Choice Credit Union on 08 8124 2148 or visit your local branch and speak to one of our friendly staff.

• Who do I contact If I'm having financial difficulty meeting my People's Choice loan or credit card repayments ?

  You can call People's Choice Credit Union on 08 8124 2148  or email us at [email protected] or visit your local branch and speak to one of our friendly staff.

• What can I use to secure my Personal Loan?

  Depending on the Personal Loan you choose, you can use a new or used car, motorbike, caravan or a term deposit / savings.
  
  Take a look at the different Personal Loans we offer at People's Choice here.

• How often can I make repayments?

  You can choose to make your repayments weekly, fortnightly or monthly.

  You can even make additional payments without penalty at any time via Phone Banking, Internet Banking, or at any of our branches.
  
  Calculate the time and interest you can change when making extra repayments with our free extra repayments calculator here.