Let’s be real—getting a loan in South Africa can feel like trying to convince a bouncer to let you into an exclusive club when you’re wearing flip-flops. The requirements, the paperwork, the credit checks… it’s enough to make you want to scream into a pillow.
But here’s the good news: some lenders are way easier to get loans from than others. Whether you need cash for an emergency, to fix your car (because South African potholes are basically landmines), or just to make it to the next paycheck, there are options.
So, which loan company is the easiest to get in South Africa? Buckle up, because I’ve been down this road—more than once—and I’m about to spill the tea.
If you’ve ever walked into a Capitec branch, you know they’re like the McDonald’s of banking—fast, no-frills, and everywhere.
Why they’re easy:
They offer small, short-term loans (up to R250,000).
Approval can happen same-day if you’re already a client.
Their credit checks aren’t as brutal as some traditional banks.
Personal experience: I once needed R5,000 to cover a medical bill (thanks, private healthcare). I walked into Capitec, showed my payslips, and walked out with cash in under an hour. No drama.
Downside: Interest rates can be high if your credit isn’t great.
Wonga used to be the go-to for instant loans… until it wasn’t. But its spirit lives on in apps like Lime24 and Boodle.
Why they’re easy:
100% online—no awkward bank interviews.
Some don’t even check credit bureaus (they look at your bank transactions instead).
Money can land in your account in minutes.
But beware: The interest rates? Criminal. I once borrowed R2,000 from one of these apps and paid back almost double. Only use these if you’re desperate and can repay FAST.
African Bank is like that strict aunt who’ll lend you money but will side-eye you until you pay it back.
Why they’re easy:
They offer loans up to R350,000.
If you have a decent credit score (not perfect, just decent), you’re in.
They have fixed repayment terms, so no surprises.
Personal story: A friend got a R50,000 loan from them to fix his car after a taxi decided his bumper was optional. Took two days to approve.
Downside: If your credit is trash, they’ll say no faster than a Joburg traffic light changes.
Ah, the infamous Mashonisas. These are the guys who’ll lend you cash with zero paperwork but might charge you 50% interest and show up at your house if you’re late.
Why they’re easy:
No credit checks.
Cash in hand immediately.
They don’t care about your employment history.
But…
Dangerous. I’ve heard horror stories of people being harassed.
Illegal. If things go south, you have no legal protection.
My advice? Avoid unless you enjoy living dangerously.
Need money but can’t get a loan? Try Foschini, Jet, or Woolworths credit.
Why it works:
Easier approval than banks.
You can buy what you need (groceries, clothes, appliances) and pay it off slowly.
Pro tip: Some people buy stuff, return it for cash, and use that as a pseudo-loan. Not that I’m endorsing that…
If you’re not in a rush, traditional banks can be an option.
Why they’re (sometimes) easy:
If you’ve been with them for years, they might approve you based on loyalty.
Lower interest rates than quick loans.
But…
Slow. Approval can take days.
Strict. Bad credit? Forget it.
Personal fail: I once applied for an FNB loan, got rejected, and cried into a tub of ice cream. Lesson learned—fix your credit first.
Before you apply anywhere, use these:
JustMoney
Hellopeter (to check lender reputations)
MoneyUniverse
These sites show you who’s most likely to approve you based on your details.
Check your credit score first (use ClearScore or TransUnion).
Avoid multiple applications—each one dings your score.
Read the fine print. Some loans have hidden fees that’ll make your eyes water.
If you need speed over everything, go with Capitec or a loan app (but repay FAST).
If you have decent credit, try African Bank.
If you’re desperate, retail credit or a Mashonisa (at your own risk).
Remember: The easiest loan isn’t always the best. Sometimes, waiting a week to qualify for a better deal saves you thousands.