Definitive Guide: Legal Licensed
Money Lenders in Singapore
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1
Introduction to Licensed Moneylenders in Singapore
What is a licensed money lender in Singapore?
According to the Moneylenders Act, a legal, authorised money lender in Singapore carries out the business of money lending under certain ministry regulations and laws.
Even though these legitimate money lenders work independently and are not tied to public financial institutions, all authorised money lenders in Singapore have to be registered with a licence number under the Registry of Moneylenders. The registered money lenders are regulated by the Ministry of Law; they must also adhere to the laws and rules in the Moneylenders Act or risk losing their licence.
Trusted, legitimate money lenders in Singapore tend to offer similar loans to local banks at varying rates and are usually the preferred choice for borrowers who are looking for fast money lenders’ loans that require less stringent credit checks.
How to tell the difference between a licensed money lender and an illegitimate money lender in Singapore?
While licensed private money lenders in Singapore conduct their business under the Ministry of Law’s purview, illegitimate lenders like loan sharks may pose as authorised institutions, resulting in the increase of money lender scams in Singapore.
To avoid falling into scams, it is important to differentiate between licensed money lenders and unauthorised private money lenders.
Here’s how to tell the difference between a licensed and an illegal private money lender in Singapore:
While licensed private money lenders in Singapore conduct their business under the Ministry of Law’s purview, illegitimate lenders like loan sharks may pose as authorised institutions, resulting in the increase of money lender scams in Singapore.
To avoid falling into scams, it is important to differentiate between licensed money lenders and unauthorised private money lenders.
Here’s how to tell the difference between a licensed and an illegal private money lender in Singapore:
1) No money lender licence
No money lender licence
The first way to identify an illegal private money lender in Singapore is by looking through the authorised list of Moneylenders. Ensure they have a physical office, an approved landline, and an approved website as stated in the list, and they display their licence certificate in the office prominently.
If the local money lender you are approaching is not on this list, they are likely illegal. You should always check the money lender licence number and enquire with the authorities if you have any doubts.
This could save you a lot of problems and will protect your safety. Illegal money lenders are known to inflict physical and emotional harm and are highly likely to land you in a huge debt.
2) Advertisement methods
2) ADVERTISEMENT METHODS
Licensed money lenders have commercial and marketing rules that they have to abide by. While they are allowed to advertise their firms, they are also limited to where they can do it. Under the guidelines, registered money lenders can advertise their services through consumer and business directories, on their official websites, and at their physical office premises.
Unauthorised modes of advertising are usually done through unsolicited emails, SMS, calls, social media ads, and door-to-door flyers. If you receive advertisement materials through any of these means, the money lender is unauthorised and should be reported to the police.
3) Remote loan approval and disbursement
3) REMOTE LOAN APPROVAL AND DISBURSEMENT
While you can apply for a loan from the licensed money lender online through its official website, legitimate money lenders always require face-to-face verification in their office before disbursing the loan. Illegal moneylenders, on the other hand, usually push for fully online transactions. If a local fast money lender promises quick loan payouts without meeting at a registered business address, be wary and report them to the authorities.
4) Threats and violence
4) THREATS AND VIOLENCE
Have an inkling that you’re not dealing with a trusted money lender in Singapore due to the lender’s violent and disrespectful behaviour? You’ve most likely engaged a loan shark. Loan sharks are known for their violent and incessant debt collection methods that can affect the lives of borrowers and their families.
To avoid unlicensed money lender harassment, do the due diligence of verifying the money lender’s licence before borrowing from a licensed money lender in Singapore online or in person.
While legalised money lenders in Singapore have their own rules and regulations on debt collection, they are prohibited from harassing their borrowers with threats and violence.
CHAPTER 2
What to know before borrowing from a licensed moneylender
What is the difference between taking a loan from a local money lender in Singapore and a bank?
While banks and licensed private money lenders in Singapore provide similar loans, they differ in many ways. For example, licensed money lenders’ interest rates are known for being much higher than banks but it is also much easier to get a loan approved with an online licensed money lender in Singapore.
They both have their pros and cons, so here’s a breakdown of the differences between banks and legalised, reliable money lenders in Singapore.
BANKS
LICENSED MONEY LENDERS
Average interest rate
3.38 - 5.42% per annum
1 - 4% per month
Borrowing sum
Up to 10 times monthly income
Up to six times monthly income
Loan approval timeline
Typically a few days or more
Same day approval
Credit assessment
Requires a good credit score
Does not require a good credit score
Minimum income requirement (unsecured loan)
At least $20,000/year
No minimum income requirement
Repayment period (personal loan)
Up to seven years (most banks offer five years)
Up to 12 months
What to look out for when enquiring with private money lenders
If you’ve decided to go ahead with an authorised money lender in Singapore, there are a few things you should look out for before diving in. It’s a good habit to shop around and compare money lenders to find the best bang for your buck before borrowing from a licensed money lender.
You also want to make sure you have a good experience with your trusted money lender in Singapore so here are some enquiries you should make before signing the contract.
1) Money lenders with low interest rates and fees
1) Money lenders with low interest rates and fees
When you’re shopping around, you definitely want to find quick money lenders with low interest rates.
Don’t settle for the first online money lender in Singapore you approach as you can negotiate and reduce your fees if you search well enough. While the rate will not be as attractive as a bank loan, always make sure you’re not being overcharged and the best way to do that is by enquiring with as many reliable online money lenders in Singapore as possible.
However, it’s helpful to note that low interest rates may not always suit every borrower. Loans with low interest rates and a short loan tenure would require a larger monthly repayment.
For borrowers with a tight monthly budget, a longer loan tenure with smaller monthly repayment (despite more interest paid in total) may be more suitable. Besides checking the loan tenures and interest rates, also ensure you’re dealing with a fast money lender for speedy loan disbursement.
2) Other loan terms
2) Other loan terms
When you receive your loan contract, it’s extremely important to go through it thoroughly before signing to ensure you don’t experience any penalties and land yourself in bigger debt.
Your loan contract should include the principal amount you’re borrowing as well as the monthly or annual interest rate discussed. You should also take note of the repayment terms especially if the money lender requires instalment payment on specific dates. Be familiar with the penalty fees for late repayment.
3) Money lender reputation and reviews
3) Money lender reputation and reviews
The best way to find out if your money lender is reputable is to search for a quick money lender review online. These reviews on online licensed money lenders in Singapore can be found on Google and you’ll be able to gauge your future experience with the money lender through other borrowers’ past experiences. If a money lender has disproportionately larger one and two-star reviews, it’s best to stay away from them.
Reliable money lenders in Singapore are usually licensed, flexible, and rated highly with many positive reviews.
Elite Credit is a professional legal money lender offering loans with generous repayment terms.
CHAPTER 3
Types of loans that moneylenders offer
Legal money lender loans: Secured vs Unsecured
Licensed online money lenders offer both secured and unsecured loans to their borrowers, but what are the differences between the two?
In general, unsecured loans are a lot riskier for money lenders and therefore, come with a higher interest rate. Secured loans have lower interest rates but require collateral. Collateral can be in the form of assets such as a car or property. If you are unable to repay your loan, your money lender has every right to seize your collateral as payment.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SECURED AND UNSECURED LOANS
Secured loans
Unsecured loans
Requires collateral
Does not require collateral
Examples of secured loans:
vehicle loans, property loans
Examples of unsecured loans: personal loans,
credit cards, student loans
If unable to repay, collateral will
be seized
If unable to repay, credit score may be
affected and the borrower may not be able to
apply for loans in the future
Loan limits for unsecured loans
Unsecured loan limits are determined by your citizenship and annual income.
BORROWING LIMIT FOR UNSECURED LOANS
Borrower’s yearly income
Singaporeans & PRs
Foreigners
Less than $10,000
$3,000
$500
$10,000 to less than $20,000
$3,000
$20,000 and above
Up to 6 times monthly income
Loan limits for secured loans
Secured loan limits are generally determined by the borrower’s financial capacity as well as the type of loan (property, car loan).
BORROWING LIMIT FOR SECURED LOANS
Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR)
Property & Car Loan: TDSR calculates the percentage of a borrower’s monthly income that goes towards paying off their loans
Capped at ≤ 55%
Loan-To-Value (LTV)
Car Loan: LTV calculates the loan amount as a percentage of the vehicle value.
Capped at 60-70% (depending on
the open market value of the vehicle)
Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR)
MSR calculates the percentage of a borrower’s monthly income that goes towards paying off all HDB flats and Executive Condominium property loans.
Capped at 30%
Pros and cons of secured and unsecured loans
If you’re deciding between applying for an unsecured or secured loan with a fast and reliable money lender in Singapore, here’s a breakdown of both their pros and cons.
PROS & CONS OF SECURED AND UNSECURED LOANS
Pros
Cons
Secured Loan
Can take up a bigger loan
Lower interest rates and fees
Easier to obtain even with a bad credit history
Longer loan repayment tenure
Risk of losing assets
Loans must be used for a specific purpose (vehicle, home, etc)
Obtaining a loan may take a few days or weeks
Unsecured Loan
No risk of losing collateral
Has more flexible loan terms
Quick loan disbursal
Small loan amount
High-interest rates
May require a good borrowing history
Shorter loan tenure
Loans legalised money lenders in Singapore offer for various situations
These are some examples of loans offered by Elite Credit:
Private car hire & taxi loan
Freelance and casual worker loan
Debt consolidation loan
Keen to apply for a personal or business loan?
CHAPTER 4
How do licensed moneylenders charge?
When applying for a loan with quick money lenders, it’s important to know the possible fees you could be charged. Local money lenders don’t only charge interest and late fees. Their services also come with administrative fees.
However, under the regulation of the Ministry of Law, there’s a cap on the fees and interest rates money lenders can charge.
MAXIMUM FEES MONEY LENDERS CAN CHARGE
Chargeable Fees
Capped Amount
Interest rate
4% each month
Late interest
4% each month for every month of late repayment
Late repayment fee
$60 for every month of late repayment
Processing fee
10% of the principal loan amount
Legal fee (for recovery of the loan
if borrowers default)
Decided by court
1. Interest rate
1. Interest rate
If you’re deciding between the best loan tenure and interest rates, you should do your research by calculating your monthly instalments. Registered money lenders use a reducing balance method to calculate interest, where the interest is calculated based on the outstanding loan amount for every instalment.
For example, if you have paid off $2,000 from a $14,000 loan, your interest for the next instalment is calculated based on the remaining $12,000.
You can use a loan charge calculator to get an accurate amount. The 4% monthly cap on interest rates is applicable regardless of the borrower’s income and loan type.
2. Late interest
Licensed money lenders in Singapore can also charge you late interest fees on top of your negotiated monthly interest rate if you don’t pay your instalments on time. Late interest rates are capped at 4%. However, this can only be charged on the amount that was not paid on time and not the remaining loan.
3. Late repayment fee
If you do not pay your loan on time, not only can your money lender charge you a late interest fee, but they can also charge an additional fee for each late payment. This fee cannot exceed $60 for every month of late repayment.
4. Loan processing fee
Money lenders, including instant money lenders, usually charge a processing or administrative fee when you apply for a loan. This processing fee should not exceed 10% of the principal loan amount. For example, if you have borrowed $1,000 from your lender, your processing fee should not be more than $100.
Under the Moneylender’s Act, the total amount that legal money lenders can charge (including the monthly interest, late interest, late repayment fee, and administrative fee) cannot exceed the principal loan amount.
CHAPTER 5
What is required when applying for a loan
Documentation required by a legal money lender in Singapore
PERSONAL LOAN
BUSINESS LOAN
Employed Singaporeans/ PRs
Self-employed Singaporean/ PRs
Foreigners
Businesses
Latest 3 months’ proof of income (payslip)
CPF contribution statement
NRIC
Proof of income for the last 3 months
IRAS Notice of Assessment
NRIC
Latest payslips for the preceding 3 months prior to loan application
Work pass
Passport
Tenancy agreement or proof of billing address
NRIC of all directors & partners
Business profile from Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)
Latest income tax assessment report (company & personal)
Credit Bureau Singapore (CBS) report of all directors (to show borrowing history)
Latest financial statements
Latest business contracts
Latest bank statements 6 months prior to loan application
Tenancy agreement of physical office/shop
BUSINESS LOAN
Businesses
NRIC of all directors & partners
Business profile from Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)
Latest income tax assessment report (company & personal)
Credit Bureau Singapore (CBS) report of all directors (to show borrowing history)
Latest financial statements
Latest business contracts
Latest bank statements 6 months prior to loan application
Tenancy agreement of physical office/shop
How to improve your loan application with a licensed money lender in Singapore
1. Credit score
Having a favourable credit score can increase your chances of getting your loan approved. A credit score is a numerical value ranging from 1000 to 2000 that indicates the likelihood of a borrower repaying their loan.
The higher the borrower’s credit score means there is a lower likelihood that the borrower will default on their loan. This score is calculated based on the borrower’s credit repayment trends, default records, bankruptcy records, and other financial histories.
Repaying your loans on time will improve your credit score and any future loan applications. Credit scores are vital especially for bank loans but are not always checked by licensed instant money lenders.
2. Check borrowing history & limit
Instead of credit scores, licensed money lenders across Singapore use the Moneylenders Credit Bureau (MLCB) to review borrowers’ loans and repayment records. The MLCB is specifically used by money lenders to assess the borrower’s creditworthiness and make decisions before approving a loan.
Borrowers have a loan limit across all money lenders in Singapore. If that limit is hit, they will not be approved for any more loans. Therefore, it is recommended to repay loans on time and refrain from applying for large loans that could limit any future loans.
3. Reduce the number of loans
Borrowers with multiple existing loans usually have a higher chance of defaulting. Therefore, lenders will usually reject a borrower’s loan application if they already have multiple loans, especially if these loans were recently taken within a short span of time. But besides reducing the number of loans, there are many other things worth noting to avoid a personal loan application rejection, such as having a good credit score and meeting the eligibility requirements.
4. Ensure a steady income stream
Licensed money lenders prefer borrowers with a stable income stream as this means they will likely be able to make their repayments on time. This income can come from full-time employment or part-time work, as well as other means, such as property rental, monthly CPF payouts, or spousal maintenance.
As long as you can prove that you are getting these monthly payouts through bank statements and reports, your application with legal money lenders in Singapore will likely be approved.
Step-by-step process of applying for a loan with a licensed money lender in Singapore
1
Search for reputable licensed money lenders, using keywords such as ‘legal money lenders in Singapore’, to ensure that you are dealing with a trustworthy and reliable lender.
2
Enquire in-person, through call, or online with reliable money lenders in Singapore about their loans, interest rates, repayment terms, and the specific documents required to apply for a loan.
3
Compare rates and loan terms of different money lenders and select one that is suitable for you and your budget.
5
The loan officer will call you up to arrange a face-to-face verification at the money lender’s office. Bring all the necessary documents. The money lender will check your MLCB report for credit and borrowing history.
6
After the review, if you are assessed to be eligible for a loan and all documents are in check, your application will be approved immediately. This will take around 15-20 minutes.
7
The loan officer will go through the loan contract with you. Make sure you understand and agree to all the loan terms before signing the contract.
8
Once the loan contract is signed, the loan amount will be disbursed to you immediately via cash or bank transfer.
What to take note of when applying for a loan with a legal money lender in Singapore
1) Note down repayment dates
Once you’ve received your loan, it’s important to take down your repayment dates and follow them religiously using a repayment schedule. Licensed money lenders’ late interest rates and late fees are much higher than that of the average bank.
To ensure you pay on time, budget your monthly expenses. Reduce unnecessary purchases and set aside a fixed amount for your repayment. Alternatively, you can opt for a monthly loan with a shorter tenure so that the interest incurred remains low and manageable.
2) Read through the contract thoroughly
Before signing a contract, make sure you agree to all the terms stated by your legalised money lender in Singapore. In the contract, take note of the amount borrowed, the interest rate, the repayment schedule, and the details that verify your money lender as legitimate and legal. This information should correspond with what you have discussed with your money lender. Make sure to keep a copy of the contract or your loan could be considered fraudulent.
3) Get a guarantor to improve your application (if needed)
If you’re struggling to get your loan approved, you can consider getting a guarantor for a higher chance of approval. Guarantors are legally obliged to pay off any loans if the main borrower is not able to do so. Your guarantor should be someone you trust and they should also be aware of the risks involved if you are unable to pay off the loan.
Do you need an urgent cash loan with a reliable money lender?
Do you need an urgent cash loan with a reliable money lender?
CHAPTER 6
Repaying Loans & Debt Collection
Loan repayment tips
Borrowers need to have discipline when paying off their loans as one default payment can incur a larger debt. Many may also plan on paying off their loans as fast as they can but be wary of any possible early repayment penalties from your money lender.
To pay off your loans on time and diligently, here are some tips:
Make high interest loans a priority
Try to pay off loans with the highest interest rates as early as possible. You can do this by increasing the payment amount but remember to strike a balance if you have other loans from money lenders to pay off. Do also remember to check if there’s any early repayment penalty from your money lender.
Keep track of receipts and outstanding loan amount
Taking on loans from money lenders comes with the responsibility of being organised. Whenever you make a payment to your money lender, keep the transaction receipt as proof. Your money lender should also issue you a receipt within 7 days of your payment, which will state your outstanding loan amount. Keep track of this figure until you pay it off fully.
Make lifestyle changes
The best way to stay in control of repayment is to reduce any unnecessary expenses. By cutting down on luxury or unnecessary purchases, you can save on cash and put it towards your repayment amount. Start by creating a budget for your monthly expenses and make more informed choices in your day-to-day spending.
What happens if you are unable to pay a money lender in Singapore
If you ever find yourself struggling to pay off your loan from a money lender, it’s not recommended to use your credit card as a solution. Credit card loans are known for their high interest rates, which will increase your debts to an exorbitant amount.
Here are some other options you can consider if you are unable to pay your money lender.
1. Negotiate repayment terms or opt for a refinancing plan
Most licensed, trusted money lenders in Singapore are willing to offer flexible terms for loan repayment, which may include negotiating an extension or refinancing the loan. If you opt for a refinancing plan, you can change the loan tenure or consider a Debt Consolidation Loan to consolidate multiple loans with money lenders.
You might have heard of Debt Consolidation Plans. They are offered by participating banks and financial institutions in Singapore for individuals struggling with high-interest unsecured debts. However, these plans have certain restrictions and eligibility criteria. For instance, medical loans, renovation loans, and medical loans are excluded. And to qualify, you need to be a Singaporean or Permanent Resident with an annual income more than S$20,000 but less than S$120,000.
While licensed money lenders in Singapore do not offer Debt Consolidation Plans, they have Debt Consolidation Loans that work on a similar principle. These loans can be a viable alternative for individuals whose debts are not covered under the Debt Consolidation Plans or individuals who don’t meet the eligibility criteria. It’s important to note that any negotiations after the initial signing of the contract may incur additional fees.
2. Approach social service agencies
For loan repayment advice, social service agencies provide credit counselling and assistance for loan repayments to those who are struggling.
If you are not able to pay off your loan, approach any of these agencies for financial aid and assistance.
(only if you have bank loans as well)
Number: 6225 5227
Email: [email protected]
Address: 51 Cuppage Road, #07-06, Singapore 229469
Address: No. 5 Harper Road #02-01A Singapore 369673
Tel no.: 6909 0628
Email: [email protected]
Number: 8428 6377
Email: [email protected]
Address: 16 Arumugam Road,
#04-02B, LTC Building D, Singapore 409961
Address: 8 New Industrial Road #04-04B LHK 3 Building Singapore 536200
Tel no.: 6547 1011
Email: [email protected]
Address: 151 Chin Swee Road #08-04 Manhattan House Singapore 169876
Tel no.: 9423 8832
E-mail: [email protected]
Address: (East) 11 Playfair Road Singapore, (West) Jurong Spring CC, 8 Jurong West St 52 Singapore 649296 Tel no.: 6749 0400
E-mail: [email protected]
3. Opt-in for the Debt Repayment Scheme
If you have exhausted all your options and are planning to file for bankruptcy, look into the Debt Repayment Scheme (DRS).
The DRS allows you to repay your loans as all your ongoing interest charges will be frozen and your money lender will not be able to file for litigation against you. However, the scheme is by initiation and you will only be eligible for DRS if you file for bankruptcy or if a bankruptcy application is made against you.
Your total unsecured debts owed should also be between $15,000 to $150,000 to be approved for the scheme. If eligible, you will be able to make monthly payments on your loans for a maximum of 5 years.
Once you declare bankruptcy, it will be reflected in your credit report in Credit Bureau Singapore (CBS) or when creditors do a litigation search on you.
Money lenders threatening me? How to settle licensed money lender disputes in Singapore
While legitimate licensed money lenders have the authority to retrieve your loan through legal means, they are also regulated under strict laws which forbid them from resorting to harassment tactics.
If your money lender is pressuring you with threats and aggression, you can take action by making a police report and/or filing a complaint to the Ministry of Law, Credit Association of Singapore, or social service agencies.
Here’s a quick look at what’s accepted and not accepted as reasonable behaviours.
What licensed money lenders CAN do
What licensed money lenders CAN’T do
Send a Letter of Demand to the borrower’s place of residence or employment in an enclosed envelope
Openly display a Letter of Demand at the borrower’s residence or on social media
Send text messages and make phone calls to the borrower within specific hours
Mon-Fri: 8am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9pm
Harassing the borrower with calls during unusual hours at the expense of their family and colleagues, or making anonymous calls to contact the borrower
Hire assigned debt collectors to retrieve loans through legal means
Stalking and pestering the borrower at their place of residence or employment
File for litigation against you
Using threatening language and aggression towards the borrower
Licensed money lender near me: the most trusted online money lender in Singapore
Elite Credit is a reliable instant money lender in Geylang that’s 100% legal, so if you stay around the area, we are just a short walk away from Paya Lebar MRT station.
If you’d like to know the best loan for your financial situation, send in an enquiry and we’ll get back to you with the best recommendations.
