What to prepare before you apply for a car loan

Having your information nearby makes an application easier to complete. You do not need to make your circumstances look better than they are. Give accurate details so the person reviewing your application can understand them.

Gather your personal and address details

Keep your current identification and contact details nearby. Check names, dates and numbers before moving to the next step. If you have moved recently, have your previous address ready.

Use contact details you can access. They give the team a way to explain the next step or ask for more information.

Know your income and regular expenses

Look at recent income and spending so your answers reflect what you receive and pay. Include regular commitments such as housing, household costs and existing debt repayments.

Choose the employment status that fits your circumstances. Alpha's form does not ask for an employer, job title or employment length when you choose Unemployed or Retired. Other employment choices ask for those details.

If you receive Centrelink payments, report them accurately. You can read more on the Centrelink car loans page. Each application is assessed on its circumstances, including affordability. Receiving a payment does not guarantee approval.

Consider the repayment before choosing the amount

Alpha offers car loans from $10,000 to $25,000, with terms of three to five years and weekly or fortnightly repayments. Use the loan calculator for an estimate, then allow for the car's running costs as well.

Understand the credit-check stages

Applying starts with a soft credit check while we assess affordability. It does not affect your credit score. We run a full credit assessment only if you choose to proceed.

You can start your application when you are ready. If a question is unclear, contact the team before guessing. Supplying accurate information helps the review, but it does not determine the outcome in advance.