Getting Car Finance After a Business Failure: Steps to Take

Can You Get Car Finance After a Business Failure?

Yes! A past business failure doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting a car loan, but lenders will assess your financial recovery. They want to ensure that you can manage repayments without financial strain.

✔️ Your personal credit score matters – Business failures can impact credit ratings, so checking and improving your score is key
✔️ Your current employment status is crucial – Lenders prefer applicants with stable income after a business closure
✔️ Time since the business failure affects approval – The longer ago it was, the less impact it has on your application
✔️ Outstanding debts may raise concernsClearing business-related personal debts can improve borrowing power

Even if you’ve had a business fail, you can still qualify for car finance by showing financial stability and planning your application wisely.


🔍 Steps to Take Before Applying for Car Finance After a Business Failure

Step Why It Matters What to Do
📉 Check Your Credit Score A poor score from past business debts can affect approval. Review your credit report and pay off outstanding business-related debts.
💼 Secure Stable Employment or Income Lenders want proof of financial recovery. Show pay slips from a new job or steady business earnings.
💰 Lower Your Debt-to-Income Ratio High personal debts can limit borrowing power. Pay off personal loans or reduce credit card balances.
📄 Wait & Rebuild Financial History More time since the business failure improves lender confidence. Consider waiting 6–12 months while improving your finances.

✅ Steps to Improve Car Loan Approval Chances After a Business Failure

If you need car finance but have a past business failure, follow these steps to increase your approval chances:

1️⃣ Check & Fix Your Credit Score – A higher credit score helps offset concerns about financial stability.

2️⃣ Show Proof of Stable Income – Whether from a new job or another business, lenders want to see consistent earnings.

3️⃣ Clear Outstanding Personal Debts – If your failed business left personal financial obligations, paying them off improves borrowing capacity.

4️⃣ Save for a Deposit – A larger deposit reduces lender risk and can secure better interest rates.

5️⃣ Apply for a Smaller Loan – A lower car loan amount makes approval easier.

6️⃣ Consider a Secured Loan – Using the car as collateral can help lenders feel more confident in approving your loan.

7️⃣ Use a Guarantor or Co-Signer – Someone with stable finances can strengthen your application.

8️⃣ Work with a Finance Broker – Brokers help find lenders who approve car finance for applicants with past business failures.


🚨 What If Your Car Loan Application Is Declined Due to a Business Failure?

If lenders reject your application due to a past business failure, try these solutions:

Wait & Rebuild Financial Stability – More time managing finances improves approval chances.

Find a Specialist Lender – Some lenders offer car loans for applicants with previous business closures.

Use a Co-Signer – A co-signer with good credit can improve approval odds.

Opt for a Secured Loan – A secured car loan (where the car is used as collateral) reduces lender risk.

Consult a Finance Broker – A broker can match you with lenders who approve loans despite past business failures.


🚀 How a Finance Broker Can Help Applicants with a Past Business Failure

A finance broker can assist by:

Finding Lenders That Accept Applicants with a Business Failure – Some lenders focus on people rebuilding after financial setbacks.

Helping You Strengthen Your Loan Application – Brokers ensure your financial recovery is well presented.

Negotiating Better Loan Terms – They help secure lower interest rates and affordable repayments.


🔑 Final Thoughts

A business failure doesn’t mean you can’t get car finance, but lenders will assess your financial recovery carefully. By improving your credit score, securing stable income, and working with a finance broker, you can increase your chances of securing a car loan with the best possible terms.

🚗 Had a business failure and need a car loan? Get expert help today to find the best finance options for your situation!

 

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.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’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. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — 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 I’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 you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’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 it’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?

It’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 — ask if there’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?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — 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 — 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 driver’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 — 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 — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — 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 I’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.