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Definition

Affordability check

An affordability check is a lender's assessment of whether you appear able to manage repayments without getting into financial difficulty. It considers your income, outgoings and existing debts.

Example

Before offering you a loan, the lender carries out an affordability check using information from your application and credit file.

Common misunderstandings

  • An affordability check is not the same as a credit check — it specifically looks at whether you can manage the repayments.
Related reading
Guide: personal loans → Guide: loan interest rates → Topic: personal loans → Topic: budgeting →