Can You Get a Car Loan If You Are in Debt Collection?

๐Ÿ’ฐ Can You Get a Car Loan If You Are in Debt Collection?

Being in debt collection makes it harder to get approved for a car loan, as it signals to lenders that you have struggled with managing financial obligations. However, it is possible to get a car loan if you take the right steps.

Lenders will assess:

โœ… The type and amount of debt in collection
โœ… Whether you have paid off any debt
โœ… Your ability to make future payments

If the debt collection account is resolved or nearing resolution, your chances of securing a car loan improve.


๐Ÿ” How Lenders View Debt Collection for Car Loans

Lenders will typically view being in debt collection as a red flag, as it indicates financial stress or mismanagement.

Debt Collection Status Approval Chances Lenderโ€™s View
โœ… Debt Fully Paid Off Moderate to High Some lenders may approve if the debt is settled and credit is cleaned up.
โš ๏ธ Debt in Collection but Actively Repaying Moderate Lenders may approve with proof of consistent repayments.
โŒ Debt in Collection with No Repayment Plan Very Low Most lenders will not approve until debts are cleared or managed.

If your debt collection account is closed, you may still qualify for a car loan with the right financial documentation.


โœ… How to Get a Car Loan While in Debt Collection

If youโ€™re in debt collection, follow these steps to increase approval chances:

1๏ธโƒฃ Pay Off the Debt โ€“ If possible, clear the debt collection account before applying for a loan.
2๏ธโƒฃ Show Proof of Debt Repayment โ€“ Provide evidence of payments made toward the debt collection account.
3๏ธโƒฃ Check Your Credit Report โ€“ Ensure debt collection is marked as cleared and no outstanding issues remain.
4๏ธโƒฃ Consider a Larger Deposit โ€“ A larger deposit will reduce lender risk and may help secure the loan.
5๏ธโƒฃ Use a Finance Broker โ€“ A broker can help find lenders that specialize in applicants with debt collection histories.

Even if your debt is still in collection, some lenders may offer loans with proof of repayment.


๐Ÿšจ What If Your Car Loan Is Declined Due to Debt Collection?

If your application is rejected due to debt collection, consider:

โœ… Paying off or negotiating the debt to reduce its impact on your credit.
โœ… Applying for a smaller loan or a secured loan (using the car as collateral).
โœ… Getting a co-signer to improve your chances.

A finance broker can help find lenders who approve applicants with debt collection accounts.


๐Ÿš€ Why a Finance Broker Can Help If You Are in Debt Collection

If your car loan was declined due to debt collection, a finance broker can help by:

โœ… Finding lenders that approve applicants with a history of debt collection.
โœ… Matching you with a loan that fits your financial situation.
โœ… Helping you avoid unnecessary credit checks that lower your score.

If you are in debt collection but need a car loan, donโ€™t risk rejection! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ’จ A finance broker can help you secure finance with the right lender.


If you are in debt collection but need a car loan, you still have options! A finance broker can match you with lenders who approve car loans despite debt collection histories.

ย 

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

Back to blog

All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

Whatโ€™s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans donโ€™t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. Youโ€™ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes โ€” many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if Iโ€™ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if youโ€™ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if Iโ€™m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

Whatโ€™s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if itโ€™s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

Itโ€™s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes โ€” ask if thereโ€™s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24โ€“48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes โ€” most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes โ€” and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Do I need a driverโ€™s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes โ€” it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes โ€” consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if Iโ€™m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if youโ€™re returning to work. Hereโ€™s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes โ€” just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if Iโ€™ve been bankrupt before?

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.