Responsible Lending

At SMB, we focus on responsible lending to help you manage your finances without falling into long-term debt. Our goal is to lend only to those who can afford to repay their loans on time.

Our Service

We offer loans to help you get ahead, handle unexpected expenses or emergencies, or anything else life throws at you, giving you control over your cash flow.

Loan Affordability  

We carefully check your financial situation to ensure a loan is suitable and affordable for you. This helps us make responsible lending decisions and avoid loans that could become problematic.

Flexible Loans  

• Loan amounts: $500 to $20,000  

• Repayment terms: 12 to 60 months  

• We only lend to those we believe can repay based on their income.  

• You must have a regular income, with a minimum of $400 net income per week.  

• Use our online loan calculator to see how much you can borrow based on your income.
  

Transparent Service  

• We show you the total amount you’ll repay upfront.  

• Our website’s *Interest and Fees* section explains the annual interest rates. 

• You can check your loan balance at any time and repay early to save money.  

• If you miss a payment, additional fees may apply. Check the *Interest and Fees* section for details on default fees.
  

Credit Checks  

• We may run a credit check to assess if a loan is right for you.  

• Even if your credit score is low, we may still lend to you after reviewing your overall financial situation, including a full bank statement assessment.
  

Be a Responsible Borrower  

• Make sure you can afford your loan repayments now and in the future.  

• Do not apply for a loan if you’re worried about falling into debt, as it could make things worse.  

• Learn more about responsible borrowing, the Responsible Lending Code, and what lenders must do at consumerprotection.govt.nz.
  

Guidance  

• Our website offers access to a free budgeting service to help you plan your finances.  

• Think carefully before applying, as we expect timely repayments.  

• Check our Help and Interest and Fees sections for details on what happens if you can’t repay.  

If you’re concerned about long-term debt, avoid applying and consider contacting the Citizens Advice Bureau for help managing your finances.