Applying for Car Finance: What documents do I Need?

When applying for car finance in the UK, there are a number of documents that you will need. Having these documents prepared in advance can help speed up the process and make it easier for both you and your finance lender to get moving with your application.

Proof of Identity

You will need to provide proof of your identity when applying for car finance. This can be in the form of a passport, driver’s license, or any other government-issued identification. With most lenders, you’ll go through what’s called an E-Sign, which is an ID verification process to prove your identity.

Proof of Address

You will also need to supply proof of your current address. This can be in the form of a recent utility bill, bank statement, or a council tax bill that displays your name and address clearly. The document should be dated within the last three months and should display your name and current address.

Proof of Income

Lenders will want to see that you have a steady income to make loan repayments. You will need to provide proof of your income, such as your most recent payslip, a letter from your employer confirming your employment and income, or a self-assessment tax return if you are self-employed. Many car finance lenders use an innovative method called Auto-Income-Verification, which utilises online banking to confirm proof of income. This process involves the borrower granting the lender permission to access their online banking information, which allows the lender to review the borrower’s income and spending patterns. The lender can verify the borrower’s income by analysing their bank statements and identifying regular deposits from their employer. This method not only simplifies the loan application process but also makes it more efficient and secure, as there is no need for the borrower to submit physical documents.

Bank Statements

You will need to supply recent bank statements as evidence of your financial status. This will help lenders decide whether you are able to make the required loan payments. Again, Auto-Income-Verification can be used by car finance lenders to review evidence of your financial status.

Credit Score Report

A credit score report is an essential document when applying for car finance. It is a summary of your credit history, including your credit score and any outstanding debts or missed payments. Each lender has a slightly different approach to creditworthiness, so you may find you’ll be accepted by some lenders but refused by others. That’s why it’s really important to check your credit score before sending an application. You can obtain your credit report from credit reference agencies such as Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.

Vehicle Information

You will need to provide details about the vehicle you wish to purchase, such as the make and model, registration number, and any other relevant information. If you have not chosen a vehicle yet and are looking to see how much you can afford first, that is also an option.

Other Documentation

Depending on the lender, you may also need to supply additional documentation such as proof of your current employment or business registration documents if you are self-employed.

It is important to note that the exact documents required may vary depending on the lender and the type of car finance you are applying for. You should always check with the lender in advance to confirm the exact documents needed for your application.

Check your credit score before applying!

In addition to the above documents, it is important to ensure that you have a good understanding of your credit history before applying for car finance. Lenders will check your credit history to decide your creditworthiness and ability to make repayments. It is advisable to check your credit score and credit report before applying for car finance to ensure that there are no errors or inaccuracies that could negatively affect your credit score. For advice on how credit scores work, read our advice column on it here.

Conclusion

In summary, when applying for car finance in the UK, you should have ready documents such as proof of identity, proof of address, proof of income, bank statements, credit score report, vehicle information where possible, and other relevant documentation as required by the lender. Ensuring that you have these documents prepared in advance can help streamline the application process and increase your chances of getting approved for car finance.

If you’re looking to apply for car finance, talk to us here at Marsh Finance. We offer a range of finance options and can get you started on your journey to your new car.

Apply directly here.