Compare a single large payment with smaller scheduled payments across the complete term. The timing risk matters as well as the sum paid.
What to check
- Salary dates
- instalment amounts and total repayment
Ask for the amount actually paid out, every required payment and its due date. Put two quotes on the same basis before choosing.
A decision to avoid
Ignoring the one month when several large payments overlap.
A calculation you can check
Illustration only: cash received R2 000; three payments of R750; a separate required charge of R50. Total paid = 3 × R750 + R50 = R2 300. Difference from cash received = R2 300 − R2 000 = R300. This difference is not an annual interest rate. Include the charge only if it is outside the three payments; do not count it twice.
Questions about this decision
One payment or monthly instalments?
Compare a single large payment with smaller scheduled payments across the complete term. The timing risk matters as well as the sum paid.
Which information do I need for this decision?
Salary dates, instalment amounts and total repayment.
Which mistake should I avoid here?
Ignoring the one month when several large payments overlap.
How do I check salary dates?
Locate the actual dated record for Salary dates. Compare it with the other records in this checklist; ask the organisation responsible for any unexplained difference.
How do I check instalment amounts and total repayment?
Locate the actual dated record for instalment amounts and total repayment. Compare it with the other records in this checklist; ask the organisation responsible for any unexplained difference.
What should I do if a required detail is missing?
Mark it as unresolved. Ask for that precise detail before choosing; do not substitute an advertised example for your own document.
What is the next practical step?
Ask for the amount actually paid out, every required payment and its due date. Put two quotes on the same basis before choosing.
How can I verify the explanation?
Use the documents listed above. Check quoted amounts and dates in the original record; use the official reference links for the organisation’s guidance.
