Warning: Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For help visit moneyhelper.org.uk/en. We are a broker and not a lender. We don’t make lending decisions.

No Credit Check Loans

If you’ve seen offers online for “no credit check loans,” it’s important to understand that all FCA-authorised lenders in the UK are legally required to perform a credit check before approving a loan.

Representative 79.9% APR Rates from 12.9% APR to 1721% APR. Representative 79.9%. The minimum Loan Term is 1 month. The maximum Loan Term is 36 months. Representative Example: £1,000 borrowed for 18 months. Repayment of 17 Months at £87.22 and final repayment of £87.70 The total amount repayable is £1570.44. Interest amounts to £570.44, an annual interest rate of 59.97%.

This is part of a broader set of rules designed to ensure responsible lending and consumer protection. These checks don’t always have to be “hard” checks that leave a mark on your credit report—some may use “soft” searches instead—but no regulated lender can offer you a loan without checking your creditworthiness.

Despite this, many people with poor or limited credit histories search for ways to borrow without scrutiny. This guide helps explain the truth behind these offers and what you should consider before applying.

Do No Credit Check Loans Really Exist?

In short: not in the way many advertisements suggest.

All FCA-authorised lenders are required to carry out creditworthiness and affordability checks before approving a loan. This includes reviewing your credit file to some extent, even if it’s a soft check that doesn’t leave a visible footprint. These checks are a legal requirement under the rules set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to ensure responsible lending and to protect consumers.

So, if a lender truly performs no credit check at all, they are likely not regulated, which raises concerns about the legitimacy and safety of the loan.

Why Are Credit Checks Important?

Credit checks exist to protect both borrowers and lenders. By checking your credit file, lenders can:

  • Assess whether you’ve had difficulty repaying credit in the past
  • Check for signs of financial stress, like recent defaults or missed payments
  • Determine whether a new loan would be affordable for you based on your credit commitments

Skipping this step could result in you being given a loan you cannot afford to repay, which could worsen your financial situation.

Can You Get a Loan with Poor Credit?

Yes—you don’t need a “no credit check” loan to borrow with bad credit.

There are legitimate lenders in the UK who specialise in lending to people with poor credit histories, and they still carry out soft or full credit checks as part of a fair and regulated process. These checks help to make sure the loan is suitable for you and won’t put you in further financial difficulty.

At Sinch.co.uk, we only work with FCA-authorised lenders who follow these rules. Some of them offer small loans to borrowers with poor credit, provided they can prove affordability.

What Should You Watch Out For?

Be cautious of any loan provider who promises:

  • Guaranteed approval with no checks
  • No credit check loans, especially with high upfront fees
  • Instant decisions without asking for details about your income or outgoings

These may be signs of unregulated lenders or scams, and you could be at risk of losing money or entering into an agreement with unfair or even illegal terms.

Responsible Alternatives to “No Credit Check Loans”

If you’ve been turned down for credit or are worried about your credit history, consider these safer alternatives:

  • Credit union loans – Often offer smaller amounts at lower rates and may be more flexible with poor credit.
  • Government budgeting loans or advances – Available to people receiving certain benefits.
  • Guarantor loans – May be an option if you have someone willing to co-sign the loan.
  • Buy now, pay later (BNPL) services** – Use with caution and only if fully understood.
  • Financial advice or budgeting support – Free debt advice is available from charities like StepChange or Citizens Advice.

Our Approach at Sinch.co.uk

Sinch.co.uk is a broker, not a lender. We do not offer or promote “no credit check loans,” because all lenders we work with are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We believe in responsible lending and clear information.

If you apply through us, your application will go through a panel of regulated lenders, each of whom will assess your eligibility based on a range of factors—including your ability to repay, not just your credit score.

Final Thoughts

While the idea of borrowing money without a credit check may sound appealing, it’s important to understand the risks and realities. True “no credit check loans” are not offered by FCA-authorised lenders. If a lender claims to offer one, it may be unregulated—and potentially unsafe.

If you have poor credit, the best approach is to explore your legitimate options and borrow only what you can afford to repay. At Sinch.co.uk, we’re here to help you navigate these decisions with clarity and care—always within the framework of responsible lending.