Help Centre

• Wide Range of Loans
  Whether you need $300 or $80,000, we help connect you with a lender that suits your situation — from short-term payday advances to larger personal loans.

• Competitive Rates & Transparent Fees
  Our panel of over 60 lenders means you may be matched with one offering lower rates or more flexible terms, with all costs disclosed upfront.

• Tailored to You
  Your loan offer is based on your income, bank history, credit profile (where applicable), and requested amount — so you’ll only see options you’re likely to be approved for.

Need Funds Urgently?

Unexpected expenses can happen anytime. That’s why we help Australians access emergency loans with fast approval and potential same-day payouts — sometimes in under an hour, depending on your application.

You may be matched with a payday advance lender for short-term cash needs up to $2,000, or with a responsible small or medium loan provider offering longer terms and more affordable repayments.

Keep in mind: Loans with faster processing and quicker payouts can sometimes carry higher fees. If your situation allows, a longer-term option with a better rate might be the smarter choice.

Full Transparency Before You Commit

Cash Today is committed to transparency at every step. Before you accept any loan, you’ll see the full breakdown of fees, repayment terms, and total cost — no surprises. We only work with licensed Australian lenders who comply with responsible lending obligations, so you can make an informed decision that suits your budget.

To apply for a loan through Cash Today, you’ll need:

• • Proof of Australian residency

  • Valid photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence)

  • Read-only 90-day bank statement (verified online – no uploads needed)

  • No dishonours or red flags in your bank statement

  • Repayments must be affordable based on your financial profile

Lenders assess your credit report to determine how responsibly you’ve handled debt in the past.

• A strong credit history with on-time repayments boosts your chances.

• A higher credit score may also help you access lower interest rates.
  Some lenders on our panel may approve applicants with poor credit if other criteria are met.

If you have a low debt-to-income ratio (DTI) this is the best position to be in for getting approved for a loan. A great debt-to-income ratio is 3.6 (36%) or less.

The higher your debt-to-income ratio, the less likely you are to be approved. That’s because you will be making repayments on your existing debt, and have less available funds to comfortably make repayments on a new loan. A debt-to-income ratio of 6.0 (60%) or higher is considered risky for lenders.

How to calculate your debt-to-income ratio 

Debt-to-income ratio = Total debt divided by total annual gross income

This can be expressed as a number or a percentage.

Resource:

Debt-to-income ratio calculator

Smaller loans with a clear purpose (e.g. car repairs, bills) are generally easier to approve.

Larger or vague-purpose loans may require a stronger application (better credit, higher income, or collateral).

Some loans, especially larger loans such as home renovation loans or car loans, require collateral. This is an asset the lender can seize if you default on the loan.

Having collateral can improve your chances of getting approved, especially if your credit score isn’t perfect. In some cases it can also qualify you for lower loan rates.

Stable income makes approval more likely.

• Full-time work is ideal, but many lenders also accept part-time and casual employment.

• Government benefits can be considered, provided they don’t exceed 50% of total income (especially for no credit check loans).

• Lenders want to see that your income comfortably covers your regular expenses plus the loan repayments.

Understanding your individual circumstances

At Cash Today, we understand that unexpected expenses can arise. While we’re here to help you access the cash you need quickly, we’re committed to responsible lending practices.  This means we take the time to assess your individual circumstances before offering a loan. 

Prioritising your financial well-being

We prioritise your financial well-being and want to ensure you can comfortably manage repayments. We also offer clear and transparent loan terms so you understand the full cost upfront. If alternative solutions like payment extensions or budgeting tools can better address your situation, we’ll be happy to point you in those directions.

Lower rates reward good track records

If you can demonstrate a strong financial track record you are more likely to get approved for personal loans and qualify for lower loan rates. If your income compared to your ongoing expenses shows that you have the ability to comfortably afford higher loan repayments you may be able to get approved for higher loan amounts. 

Preventing financial stress 

In the event that your financial history reflects more unstable income, a poor credit rating, or a high debt-to-income ratio, your application may be declined if it is determined that repaying the loan would not be affordable and result in further financial hardship for you. 

You may only be approved for smaller loan amounts with lower repayments, and you may not qualify for lower rate loans and need to carefully decide whether you are willing and able to accept paying higher rates for the loan.

Protecting your future 

It’s important to note that even if you can comfortably afford repayments, your application might not be approved. This is because we assess your financial history to ensure responsible lending. We want to avoid situations where the loan could negatively impact your long-term financial health. This includes missed payments that could damage your credit score and make it harder to access future loans.

Good chance of approved for a loan.
Likely to qualify for a loan with lowest rates.

Characteristics:

1. Credit score: Good (above 600) 
2. Stable employment or income
3. Low Debt-to-Income Ratio (well below 36%)
4. Positive Savings History
5. Minimal Loan Applications
6. No payments made to collection companies, payment arrears, or dishonours in the last 90 days

Might be approved for smaller loan amounts.
Unlikely to qualify for a loan with lower rates.

Characteristics:

1. Credit score: Ok (above 400)
2. Employed, but may have had some recent job changes or gaps in employment
3. Debt-to-Income Ratio approaching 36%
4. Smaller savings history
5. May have other personal loans, but not taken out in the last 90 days
6. No payments made to collection companies, payment arrears, or dishonours in the last 90 days

Unlikely to approved for a loan.
Might be approved for smaller loan amounts (under $1000).
Unlikely to qualify for a loan with lower rates.
Consider a second chance loan to improve credit rating, or apply at a later date.

Characteristics: 

1. Credit score: Low (less than 400 or no credit score)
2. May have a history of late payments or defaults on loans or bills
3. May have a high debt-to-income ratio (DTI) above 36% or significant outstanding debts
4. May have a history of unemployment or frequent job changes

Will not be approved for a loan.

Displays one or more disqualifying conditions.

What is a personal loan?
A personal loan is an unsecured loan for a lump sum, repaid over a fixed term. It’s commonly used for debt consolidation, renovations, medical costs, or large purchases.

Pros:

• Debt consolidation: Combine multiple debts into one manageable repayment.

• Larger purchases: Fund home upgrades, travel, or major life events.

• Flexible use: Funds can be used for most legal purposes.

Cons:

• Higher interest rates than secured loans

• Longer repayment terms = more total interest

• Potential to overspend if not managed carefully

What is a SAAC loan?
A Small Amount Credit Contract (SAAC) is a short-term loan regulated under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act. Loan terms range from 16 days to 12 months. These are fast, flexible, and fully online.

Best for: Unexpected expenses when you need cash in hours, not days.

Pros:

• Fast approval and same-day funding

• Transparent flat-fee structure

• No interest (fee-based pricing only)

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to traditional loans

• Best suited to short-term needs

What is a MAAC loan?
A Medium Amount Credit Contract (MAAC) allows you to borrow between $2,001 and $5,000, repayable over 16 days to 24 months. These loans offer a balance between speed and higher borrowing limits.

Pros:

• Ideal for larger one-off expenses

• Quick application and decision

• More affordable for stronger credit profiles

Cons:

• Higher interest rates than secured loans

• Should only be used if immediate access to funds is essential

What is a Second Chance Loan?
Designed for applicants rebuilding their credit, this no-credit-check loan offers manageable terms and a way to improve your credit score through consistent, on-time repayments.

Features:

• No credit check required (for loans under $500)

• Establishment fee: 20% | Monthly fee: 4%

• Fast online application with 60-second response

Who’s it for?
Those with a stable income but a limited or poor credit history, seeking a small loan with a clear path to improving creditworthiness.

$5,001 – $80,000

• Term: 3 – 7 years

• Establishment fee: $310 – $1,035

• Monthly fee: $0

• Interest: 7.24% – 19.99% p.a.

• Typical broker fee: $990 – $1,690

$2,001 – $5,000

• Term: 16 days – 24 months

• Establishment fee: $400

• Monthly fee: $0 – $18

• Interest: 19% – 48% p.a.

$300 – $2,000

• Term: 16 days – 12 months

• Fees: 20% establishment + 4% monthly

• Interest: N/A (fee-based only)

1: Enter your details and choose your loan amount and reason

2: Verify your bank statements securely online (read-only, 90 days)

3: Get a provisional approval in under 60 seconds

4: Review & accept your matched lender’s loan offer

5: Lender performs final assessment, including credit check

6: Funds could be transferred in under an hour once approved

1: Enter your details and choose your loan amount and purpose

2: View your matched loan rate and provisional approval in under 60 seconds

3: Proceed with the full application if you’re happy with the offer

4: Review & accept your lender’s terms

5: Verify bank statements (read-only, 90 days)

6: Lender review – may request additional docs and run a credit check

7: Funds could be transferred the same day, in some cases in under an hour once approved

Loans from $25,001 – $80,000

1: Select your loan amount and type

2: Compare rates from 60+ lenders and choose your preferred offer

3: Enter your personal details

4: Receive your loan offer and provisional approval in under 60 seconds

5: Proceed with full application if the terms suit you

6: Review & accept the final lender offer

7: Verify bank statements (read-only, 90 days)

8: Lender assessment – may include additional documentation and credit check

9: Funds are transferred the same day once approved

• No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS): Borrow up to $2,000 for essential goods and services with no interest, no fees, and no credit check. Offered by Good Shepherd and supported by the Australian Government. See if you qualify.
• Centrelink Advance Payment: If you’re receiving Centrelink benefits, you may be able to access an advance on your payments to cover urgent expenses. Visit the Centrelink website for more information and eligibility requirements.

If you’re struggling with debt or worried about your financial situation, speaking to a professional can help. Free and confidential financial counselling services are available across Australia.

📞 Call 1800 007 007 — National Debt Helpline
Open weekdays, 9:30am–4:30pm
You’ll be connected with a qualified, independent financial counsellor who can help you:

• Understand your financial situation

• Create a realistic repayment plan

• Access hardship arrangements with existing lenders

• Avoid unnecessary fees or legal action

A Small Amount Credit Contract (SAAC) is a regulated loan of $500 to $2,000, repaid over 16 days to 12 months. SAACs are different to payday loans — they offer longer terms, set fees, and are governed by the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.

A Medium Amount Credit Contract (MAAC) is for loans between $2,001 and $5,000, repaid over 16 days to 24 months. These loans are also regulated under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act and generally offer more flexible repayments than payday loans.

A personal loan allows you to borrow a lump sum (typically $5,001 to $80,000) for things like consolidating debt, making a big purchase, or covering unexpected costs. These are usually unsecured and repaid in fixed instalments over 3 to 7 years. Your credit score and financial history affect the rate you’re offered.

Cash Today can match you with lenders offering loans between $300 and $80,000. The actual amount you qualify for depends on your financial profile, income, credit history, and recent bank transactions. 

You’ll need:

• Valid ID (e.g. driver’s licence)

• Proof of Australian residency (e.g. utility bill)

• Access to 90-day bank statements via secure online verification

• Contact details (phone and email)

Yes — we work with lenders who consider more than just your credit score. You may also be eligible for a no credit check loan depending on your current financial situation. To find out what amount you could qualify for without a credit check, use our loan estimate tool.

There’s no fixed minimum. Lenders consider your whole financial profile — income stability, debt-to-income ratio, savings habits, and recent bank transactions — not just your score.

If your loan is approved and accepted, the funds will be transferred directly to your bank account. Depending on your bank and the loan amount, you could receive the money in under an hour.

No. You must repay your existing loan before applying for a new one.

You can still apply. We’ll assess your eligibility using the last 90 days of bank transactions, and in some cases may ask for additional documents.

Direct funds transfer. The money is directly deposited into your nominated bank account.

f you’re struggling to make a repayment, it’s important to contact your lender directly as early as possible. Many lenders may be able to adjust your repayment schedule or offer support options based on your circumstances.

Early communication can help you avoid late fees and minimise any negative impact on your credit file.

Yes. These loans can have higher fees than traditional loans. Only borrow what you can comfortably repay and be sure to review your loan terms carefully.

• Set reminders so you never miss a due date

• Make your repayments a priority

• Pay more than the minimum when possible to reduce costs

• Review your spending and avoid taking out multiple loans

• No. We do not offer to renew or refinance existing loans.

Here are some reputable resources to learn more about financial literacy and managing debt:

• MoneySmart
• Australian Competitor and Consumer Commission
• ASIC – Australian Securities & Investments Commission

We recommend consulting these resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of personal finance, debt, and making informed borrowing decisions.