Bad Credit Loans in Singapore

Head of Research
|
Updated 10 Feb 2026

Fact-checked

Glossary

Disclosure

Useful Resources

Head of Research
Updated 10 Feb 2026
|

Fact-checked

Bad credit can limit borrowing options but it doesn't shut them out completely. This page explains how licensed moneylenders in Singapore assess borrowers with low credit scores, what fees and interest rates apply and how to borrow responsibly while working to rebuild your credit score.
Quick Small Cash Loan Facts below:
Quick Small Cash Loan Facts

Definition - What Is a Bad Credit Loan?

A bad credit loan is a personal loan designed for borrowers with a low CBS credit score typically rated CC or below. Banks generally reject applications below BB but licensed moneylenders take a broader view of an applicant's financial circumstances. Instead of relying on bank credit score alone, they assess monthly income, employment history and MLCB report to decide whether to approve a loan application.
Unlike bank loans, bad credit loans are typically:
  • Smaller amounts usually between $500–$5,000
  • Shorter repayment terms between 1–12 months
  • Same day approvals based on MLCB report

CBS credit score ranges from 1,000 to 2,000. Banks use this score to decide whether to approve a loan application. The lower the score, the higher the risk grade.

Risk GradeScore RangeRating
AA1,911–2,000Excellent
BB1,844–1,910Good
CC1,825–1,843Fair
DD1,783–1,824Poor
EE1,724–1,782Poor
FF1,501–1,723Very poor
GG1,000–1,500Very poor
HHBelow 1,000Default risk
HXNo scoreNo credit history

Most banks require at least BB to approve a personal loan. If rated CC or below, applicants likely need to borrow from a licensed moneylender. This score applies to banks while licensed moneylenders also use MLCB which is explained in the next section.

CBS credit score ranges from 1,000 to 2,000. Banks use this score to decide whether to approve a loan application. The lower the score, the higher the risk grade.

CBS CBS
MLCB MLCB
Used byBanks, finance companiesLicensed moneylenders
TracksCredit cards, bank loans and mortgagesMoneylender loans only
Score1,000–2,000 (AA to HH)Loan information report only
UpdatesCan take timeReal time
Report Fee$8 at creditbureau.com.sg$0.50 at mlcb.com.sg
  • Late or missed payments on credit cards or loans
  • Defaults on existing credit facilities
  • Multiple loan applications in a short period
  • Bankruptcy or debt restructuring
  • Defaulting as a guarantor on someone else's loan

Singapore Citizens and PRs

  • Aged 21 and above
  • Earning at least $1,500 per month
  • Valid NRIC

Foreigners

  • Valid Employment Pass, S Pass or Work Permit
  • Earning at least $1,500 per month
  • Proof of employment in Singapore

What lenders look at beyond your credit score:

  • Current income and employment stability
  • Existing debt obligations
  • MLCB loan information report
  • Ability to repay based on monthly commitments
  • Whether previous moneylender loans have been repaid on time
*Applying with ROSHI will not impact your credit score

Disclosure

Glossary

Useful Resources

$1,000

$200,000

3 Months

72 Months

Total Cashback
10
Your Monthly Payment

337

* For a loan amount of $20,000, APR of 6.95%, 5 year, read more

Why Banks Reject Applications
with Bad Credit and Moneylenders Don't

Banks and licensed moneylenders use different credit systems,
income thresholds and approval criteria. Here's how they
compare for borrowers with bad credit.

Bank Licensed Moneylender
Minimum credit scoreBB or aboveNo minimum
Minimum income$20,000 to $30,000 per year$1,500 per month
Approval speed1 to 5 working daysSame day
Interest rate3 to 12% per yearUp to 4% per month
Loan amount$1,000 to $200,000$500 to $10,000
Suitable for bad credit
Our Expert says

A low credit score doesn't define your financial future!

If your score dropped because of a rough patch, licensed moneylenders can still help. They assess your MLCB record, your current monthly income, your existing debt situation and your ability to make repayments.

Borrow what you can repay and use the loan to stabilise your financial situation at the same time avoid getting into recurring unmanageable debt. Quote Icon

Trinh Thanh
Trinh Thanh
Head of Research
img

Get Approved with Bad Credit

How to Improve Your Approval Chances

  • Show stable income with recent payslips or CPF statements
  • Reduce existing debts before applying
  • Borrow only an amount you can comfortably repay
  • Bring complete documents to avoid approval delays
  • Be honest about your financial situation, lenders check your MLCB report anyway

Where to Get Help

Rebuilding takes time but consistent effort pays off

  • Pay all bills and loan on time, every month
  • Keep credit card utilisation below 30% of your limit
  • Avoid submitting multiple loan applications in a short period
  • Check your CBS report regularly for errors
  • Check your MLCB report to make sure your moneylender repayments are recorded correctly
  • Set up auto payments wherever possible
  • Close unused credit lines you no longer need

With consistent on-time payments most borrowers see improvement within 6–12 months.

Interest Rate Trends

Below is an overview of current interest rate trends in Singapore:
Today's moneylender interest rate trends in Singapore
Today's moneylender interest rate trends in Singapore - As of 15 February 2026, licensed moneylenders are charging an average interest rate of approximately 3.9% per month just under the legal cap of 4%.
Monthly Interest Rate Trends (February2026)
Research provided by Trinh Thanh on 12 February 2026 - In February 2026, Singapore’s bad credit loan segment continues to reflect a cautious but stable lending environment. Borrowers with weaker credit profiles remain active in the market, driven largely by short-term cash needs rather than long-term financing goals. Interest rate conditions remain unchanged, with regulatory caps continuing to shape pricing across the sector.

Unlike mainstream personal loans, bad credit loans are more sensitive to risk assessment than broader market movements. As a result, applied monthly rates remain relatively stable, while lenders place greater emphasis on affordability checks and repayment capacity. February shows no signs of tightening or loosening in policy, reinforcing a predictable environment for higher-risk borrowers.
Licensed Moneylenders
Licensed moneylenders regulated by the Registry of Moneylenders under Singapore’s Ministry of Law remain the primary source of bad credit loans in February 2026. Average applied monthly interest rates continue to sit at approximately 3.8%, staying just below the legal maximum of 4% per month, reflecting the higher risk associated with borrowers who have limited or impaired credit histories.

While borrowers may still be eligible to borrow up to six times their monthly income, approval decisions are closely tied to current income stability rather than past credit performance alone. Administrative fees remain capped at 10% of the principal, with late fees typically limited to S$60 per month. Although applications for bad credit loans can be submitted remotely and assessed digitally, licensed moneylenders are required to complete borrower identification and contract formalities in person at a physical branch in line with Ministry of Law regulations. Despite this requirement, approvals remain relatively fast, keeping licensed moneylenders accessible for borrowers who are unable to secure bank financing.
Banks
Banks in Singapore generally apply stricter credit assessment criteria, which limits access to bad credit loans. While banks offer lower Effective Interest Rates (EIR) on personal loans, these products are usually reserved for borrowers with stable credit histories and strong repayment profiles.

For individuals with poor or limited credit records, bank approval rates remain low and alternative arrangements such as secured credit or guarantor-backed loans may be required. As a result, banks play a limited role in the bad credit loan segment, particularly for borrowers seeking immediate or short-term funding.

ROSHI Expert Insight
In February 2026, the bad credit loan market continues to highlight the importance of regulated access and transparency. Licensed moneylenders remain accessible to borrowers with weaker credit profiles, offering funding at monthly rates near 3.8%, provided affordability criteria are met. While these rates are higher than bank loans, they reflect the additional risk involved rather than arbitrary pricing.

From ROSHI’s perspective, bad credit loans should be viewed as a rebuilding tool rather than a long-term solution. Through ROSHI’s licensed lender network, borrowers can access regulated options that clearly outline repayment terms, helping them manage short-term needs while working towards improving their credit standing.
What This Means for Borrowers
For borrowers in February 2026, bad credit loans remain available but require careful consideration. Licensed moneylenders continue to offer a regulated pathway for those unable to secure bank financing, though higher applied rates mean repayment planning is essential. Used responsibly, these loans can help address immediate needs without worsening financial strain.

Singapore’s consumer protection framework continues to safeguard borrowers through interest caps, fee limits and mandatory disclosures. By using reputable platforms like ROSHI, borrowers with poor credit can navigate available options confidently and make informed decisions that balance short-term relief with long-term financial stability.

CALCULATE YOUR BAD CREDIT LOAN REPAYMENTS

See Exactly What You'll Pay Before You Apply

Loan Amount
34

$1,000

$20,000

Loan Tenure
3

3 Months

12 Months

Monthly Interest
Your Monthly repayment will be
$9,700.88
Total Cashback

$0.00

Total Interest

$0

Total Repayment

$0

Launch Your Application
*No impact on credit score

What Are the Pros & Cons
of Bad Credit Loans?

PROS

  • Accessible through moneylenders when banks reject
  • No minimum CBS credit score required
  • Same day approval and disbursement
  • Can help cover emergencies when no other option available
  • Repaying on time builds MLCB record
  • Regulated by Ministry of Law where fee caps protect

CONS

  • Monthly interest of up to 4% versus lower bank loan rates
  • High processing with of up to 10% of total amount
  • Smaller amounts usually between $500 to $5,000
  • Shorter repayment timelines usually 1 to 12 months
  • Doesn’t improve borrowers CBS score
  • Can trap borrowers in debt trap if used repeatedly

LOAN APPLICATION PROCESS

How to Get a Low Credit Loan with ROSHI?

5 min

Apply Online

Apply in under 30 seconds using Singpass or our simple multi-step form. It’s quick, secure and hassle-free.

30 min

Get Matched

Review tailored loan options instantly. Our customer success team is here to help with any questions or concerns.

Same Day

Receive Your Funds

Connect with your preferred lender, finalise all paperwork and receive your funds.

Finding the Right Bad Credit Loan (FAQs)

Can I get a loan with bad credit in Singapore?

It is possible to qualify for a loan even with a low credit score as licensed moneylenders use your MLCB report and assess your current income, employment history and ability to make monthly repayments. A low CBS score does not automatically disqualify you.
Applying through ROSHI does not affect your CBS or MLCB record. However, if you accept an offer and proceed with a lender, the loan application will be recorded depending on the respective lender.
Most licensed moneylenders offer between $500 and $5,000, depending on your monthly income, your ability to make repayments and other existing loan commitments.
Licensed moneylenders can charge up to 4% interest per month but the exact rate depends on each lender, your profile assessment, loan amount and repayment timeline. A $1,500 loan for 6 months costs approximately $2,010 in total.
Loan approvals from banks commonly require a CBS score of BB or above and a minimum annual income of $20,000 to $30,000. If you are rated CC or below, a licensed moneylender is the more realistic option.
To check your credit score visit creditbureau.com.sg and request your report for $8 which will show your bank credit history and score. If you have taken a loan with a moneylender in the past you can also visit mlcb.com.sg and request a report for $0.50 which will show your moneylender loan history.
Repaying on time improves your MLCB record only, which helps with future moneylender loan applications. Moneylender loans are not reported to CBS so they will not directly improve your bank credit score. To rebuild your CBS score, focus on paying credit cards and bank loans on time.
If you are struggling with multiple loans or credit card debt, borrowing more may not be the right way forward. Consider reaching out to a credit counsellor at Credit Counselling Singapore before taking on additional loans. They offer free advice on managing or reorganising debt.

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Today's Application
Numbers
and Time To Offer Average

LAST UPDATE
15 Feb 2026

Application Submitted

in the last 30 days
3744

Time to Offer

average
10 minutes

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