Cash Loan UK

By: EconomyWatch Content   Date: 4 December 2009

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 The Cash loan industry in the UK grew by more than 130% from August 2007 to June 2008. A payday loan is offered for a short period, considering the borrower’s power to pay it back. There are certain requirements that have to be met, such as the borrower should:

  • Be a citizen of the UK.

  • Complete more than 18 years of age.

  • Have a valid bank account.

  • Be a salaried employee.

Cash Loan UK: Payday Loan Regulatory Bodies

The following are the main payday loan regulatory bodies in the UK:

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT): Every payday lender in the UK has to obtain a consumer credit license by the OFT before starting its business. The OFT has also introduced some regulations to regulate the deceitful activities involved in payday lending. This prompted many financial experts to lobby the government to control the extremely high interest rates and rolling over of loans by setting up legislation.

The British Cheque Cashers Association (BCCA): This organization offers voluntary membership to high-street payday lenders. The BCCA has set a Code of Practice for its member payday lenders. Based on this code, the members should not practice too much rolling over of payday loans. The BCCA code of practice does not cover the internet-based payday lenders' sector, which is growing speedily.

The Insolvency Practitioners' Association (IPA): This organization has persuaded the government for the introduction of a body that will ensure the services of payday lenders are regulated. This body will not cover FSA-regulated financial institutions. The IPA has also proposed a scheme under which fair loan products are recognized with the award of a 'kite-mark' to high quality.

Cash Loan UK: Payday Loan Advertising Regulations

Regulations are not strict enough to curb the unfair practices of payday lenders. However, advertising regulations that are meant for all loan products must be followed by payday lending institutions.

For instance, the Annual Percentage Rate of interest (APR) offered on loans must reflect in the advertisements in the following situations:

  • The APR is high.

  • It shows comparisons with other financial products

  • It provides cash-back, free gifts or other such incentives.

  • It pitches on county court judgments (CCJ), poor credit history and arrears.

These factors must be considered when approaching payday lenders.


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