A website may let you compare at no browsing charge while a lender charges for borrowing. Keep the two services distinct.
What to check
- Comparison-service terms and the lender's credit quote
Use the written quote to separate cash received, scheduled payments and charges outside those payments. Keep a calculation with each quote.
A decision to avoid
Describing a free application form as a free loan.
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
What should I check first?
A website may let you compare at no browsing charge while a lender charges for borrowing. Keep the two services distinct.
Which information do I need for this decision?
Comparison-service terms and the lender's credit quote.
Which mistake should I avoid here?
Describing a free application form as a free loan.
When should I review this decision?
Review it when the amount, date or condition you used changes. Keep the previous version so you can identify what changed.
How do I check comparison-service terms and the lender's credit quote?
Locate the actual dated record for Comparison-service terms and the lender's credit quote. 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?
Use the written quote to separate cash received, scheduled payments and charges outside those payments. Keep a calculation with each quote.
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.
