How to Qualify for a Low Doc Car Loan?

To qualify for a low doc car loan typically involves meeting certain criteria set by individual lenders. Low doc loans are designed for ABN holders who may not have traditional income documentation readily available or who have non-standard income sources.

This article will explain what a low doc car loan is, what you need to qualify for a low doc car loan and the many benefits associated with this type of business loan. Finally, we will provide insights into the most effective methods for obtaining a low doc car loan.

What is a low doc car loan?

Low doc car finance is a type of business vehicle loan. Like most loans, the vehicle is used as security against the loan. The main difference is that this type of business loan does not require full up-to-date business financials, such as tax returns. However, lenders will require some proof of income to demonstrate that the loan can be serviced.

How to qualify for a low doc car loan?

1. ABN: Your business must have a current operational Australian Business Number (ABN). Most lenders require your ABN to be over 6 months old to qualify for low doc finance.
2. Business Use: The vehicle being purchased must be used for business purposes.
3. Documentation: While called a low doc loan, there is still some documentation that is required. Firstly, you will need to provide your identification. This is in the form of a current driver’s licence and Medicare card. If you are a property owner / mortgage holder you will need to provide a current council rates notice. As a property owner you qualify for a more competitive interest rate.
4. Proof of Income: Low doc loans require less documentation compared to traditional loans. However, you will still need to provide some form of documentation to support your income and financial situation. You will need to demonstrate that you have a steady income or sufficient cash flow to afford the loan repayments. This might include bank statements, business activity statements (BAS), accountant’s letters, or simply a signed statutory declaration of income.
5. Good Credit History: Lenders will typically assess your credit history and credit score to determine your creditworthiness. Some low doc lenders are more flexible with credit history requirements compared to traditional lenders. Having a good credit score can improve your chances of approval and may help you secure more favorable loan terms.
6. Deposit / Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR): Lenders may consider the loan-to-value ratio. That is, the ratio of the loan amount to the value of the car being purchased. A lower LVR means you are borrowing a smaller percentage of the car’s value. Hence, a lower LVR can improve your chances of an approval and may lead to better loan terms. The easiest way to lower a LVR is by paying a deposit. While not all lenders require a deposit some may insist on a 10 to 20% depending on your specific circumstances.
7. Ability to Repay: Lenders will assess your ability to repay the loan based on your income and financial situation. They’ll consider factors such as your debt-to-income ratio and whether you have any other outstanding debts.
8. Security: The car you’re purchasing will typically serve as security for the loan. Lenders may require details about the car. This could include its make, model, age, and condition and well as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

What are the benefits of low doc car finance?

Low doc car finance offers several benefits, particularly for individuals or businesses with non-traditional income documentation or unique financial circumstances. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Flexible Documentation Requirements: Low doc loans require less extensive documentation compared to traditional loans. This makes them more accessible to self-employed individuals, freelancers, small business owners, or those with irregular income streams.
2. Streamlined Application Process: With fewer documentation requirements, the application process is typically faster and more straightforward. This allows borrowers to secure financing more quickly.
3. Access to Finance: Low doc loans provide an opportunity for individuals or businesses who may not qualify for traditional loans due to limited or non-traditional income documentation to access financing for purchasing a vehicle.
4. Customized Repayment Options: Lenders offering low doc car loans often provide flexible repayment terms tailored to the borrower’s financial situation. This may include options such as variable interest rates, balloon payments, or longer loan terms to suit the borrower’s cash flow needs.
5. Asset Ownership: Borrowers retain ownership of the vehicle from the outset. This allows you to benefit from potential tax deductions associated with business use and depreciation of the vehicle. For example, the GST on the purchase price can be claimed in the first year.
6. Tax Deductions: The interest paid on a low doc car loan used for business purposes is tax-deductible.
7. Business Investment: For businesses, finance can be used as a strategic investment to acquire vehicles without tying up significant capital. Vehicles can be purchased to enhance and expand business activities without tying up cash flow.
8. Credit Building: Timely repayment of loans can help to build and improve a borrower’s credit history and credit score. This can potentially improve their ability to access financing in the future at more favorable terms.

Overall, low doc car loans offer flexibility and accessibility. They enable individuals and businesses with unique financial situations to finance vehicle purchases and support their mobility needs.

How to get low doc car finance?

It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria vary between lenders. In addition, the eligibility criteria are constantly updated and can change on a weekly basis. This is where an accomplished and professional finance brokerage can help!

At AAA Finance and Insurance, we have a team of highly experienced finance brokers that navigates the sea of lenders’ requirements on your behalf. Our job is to find the lender that suits your circumstances at the most competitive rate on the market. We shop around and compare loan offers from different financial institutions to find the best option for your circumstances. At AAA Finance, we will save your time and money!