5 Essential Steps To Responsible Borrowing In Singapore

5 Essential Steps to Responsible Borrowing in Singapore

  1. Check the Money lender’s License

    • Ensure Legitimacy: Before borrowing, always verify that the money lender is licensed and authorized by the Singapore government. A licensed money lender follows legal practices, protecting you from unethical lending.
    • Official Registry: You can easily check the money lender’s license status on the official government website or registry, ensuring that you’re working with a trusted source.
    • Avoid Scams: Stay clear of unlicensed lenders to avoid falling victim to scams or unfair practices. Always do your due diligence before committing to any loan agreement.
  2. Understand the Loan Terms

    • Review Key Details: Always read through the loan agreement thoroughly, paying attention to the interest rates, fees, and repayment schedules. Understanding these terms will help you make informed decisions.
    • Seek Clarification: Don’t hesitate to ask the money lender about any part of the loan that seems unclear. Clear communication ensures that you fully understand your commitments.
    • Know Your Obligations: Make sure you’re comfortable with all terms before signing. Responsible borrowing starts with being aware of all the financial obligations you’ll have.
  3. Calculate Your Repayment Ability

    • Assess Your Finances: Evaluate your current income, monthly expenses, and savings to understand if you can afford the loan repayments without straining your finances.
    • Plan for the Future: Consider whether your income will remain stable throughout the loan term, and make sure you’ll be able to manage repayments over the long term.
    • Avoid Overborrowing: Only borrow what you can afford to repay. Borrowing beyond your means can lead to financial stress and affect your credit score.
  4. Sign the Loan Contract in Person

    • Personal Signing: Always sign the loan contract in person at the money lender’s office. This ensures that the contract is legitimate and that you understand every detail before agreeing.
    • Watch for Incomplete Documents: Never sign blank or incomplete loan agreements. Make sure every field is filled out, and all terms are clearly stated.
    • Know What You’re Signing: Take the time to go over each section of the loan contract, ensuring that you are fully aware of the terms and conditions. Don’t rush the process.
  5. Keep a Copy of the Signed Contract

    • Request a Copy: Once signed, always ask for a copy of the contract for your records. This will serve as proof of the agreement in case any disputes arise in the future.
    • Safe Storage: Keep the contract in a safe place, such as a secure digital file or a locked drawer, where you can easily refer to it if needed.
    • Track Your Repayments: Use the signed contract as a reference to track your repayment progress. This will help you stay on top of payments and avoid missing deadlines.
Borrowing may seem like a quick solution to your current situation, but irresponsible borrowing can lead to irreversible debt, causing unnecessary stress for both you and your loved ones. Stay informed, borrow wisely, and secure your financial future!
By Orange Credit
Author Bio
Marc Cheng

Marc Cheng is the Director of Orange Credit and brings over a decade of expertise in Singapore’s lending industry, specialising in the development of responsible and transparent loan solutions tailored for both individuals and SMEs. He approaches lending with a strong focus on sustainable borrowing, rigorous compliance, ethical standards, and comprehensive risk assessment. Marc is dedicated to promoting financial clarity and fostering long-term trust within a regulated environment.

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