Taking out a loan can be necessary when you need extra funds, but finding a legal and reputable lender is crucial. With so many online lending companies in the Philippines, it can be challenging to determine which ones are legitimate. This guide will help you choose a legal and trustworthy online loan suited to your needs.
What to look for in a legal online lending company
When evaluating an online lending company, here are the key things to check:
- Clear contact information – The company should provide full contact details like company address, email, phone numbers and social media channels so you can easily reach them.
- Positive online reviews – Do some research to see what current and past customers say about their services. Legal lenders should have predominantly good reviews describing positive borrowing experiences.
- Reasonable interest rates – While rates differ based on factors like loan term, legal lending companies cap annual percentage rates (APR) at around 30-60%. Extremely high interest rates are a red flag.
- Flexible repayment options – Reputable lenders provide flexible repayment options tailored to what borrowers can manage based on their financial situation.
Top legal online lending companies in the Philippines
After extensive research, we recommend considering these legal and reliable online lending companies in the Philippines:
1. Cash Express
Cash Express should top your list for fast and easy loans with reasonable rates. I highly recommend them based on their:
- Regulation – Cash Express is duly registered with the SEC and complies with RA 9474 requirements
- Application process – It only takes 3 minutes to complete their online application form
- Fast approval – They provide loans within 24 hours straight to your bank account
- Outstanding service – Cash Express has superb customer service and supportive staff to answer all queries
Whether you need money to cover emergency expenses or finance a business, Cash Express makes secured borrowing completely convenient.
2. Loan Rangers
Loan Rangers has operated legally in the lending space for over 15 years. They are registered with the SEC and BSP with license to lend money to Filipinos.
I recommend Loan Rangers for their:
- Straightforward application – Requires only basic documents like ID and proof of billing
- Multiple loan options – Personal, salary, business loans and more to suit different needs
- Reasonable 10-20% interest monthly – Affordable for mid-term loans
3. Speedy Cash PH
Speedy Cash PH stands out with its easy online application process and quick payouts within the day.
Key benefits provided by Speedy Cash PH:
- SEC and CDA registered – Fully compliant with legal requirements
- Loans under 30 minutes – Ultra fast application and disbursal
- Low-risk first loan – They offer affordable first-time loans
What loan terms should you look for?
When searching for an online loan, pay attention to these terms to find the best offer:
- Loan amount – Apply for an amount you realistically need and can repay
- Interest rates and fees – Ensure rates and fees do not exceed legal limits
- Payment terms- Select loan terms and payment schedules you can maintain
- Collateral requirements – Some lenders may require a guarantor or collateral
- Penalties for late/non-payment – Understand penalties before signing any loan agreement
Carefully evaluating loan terms ensures you get reasonably priced access to emergency funds without getting trapped in debt.
Are there scams to avoid?
Unfortunately, there are lending scams preying on Filipinos desperate for loans. Avoid these telltale signs of predatory lending scams:
- Requests immediate upfront payments for “processing fees” or “advanced interest”
- Pressures you with threats of penalty charges or legal action
- Requires handing over internet banking passwords or ATM pins
- Has no valid SEC registration or obvious signs of being a shell corporation
Protect yourself by only borrowing from reputable lenders properly registered to operate in the Philippines.
Ready to find your legal online loan match?
I hope this guide gives you clarity on distinguishing between legal lending companies and scams offering online loans in the Philippines.
Focus your search for urgent loans on regulated lenders like Cash Express with:
- Legal SEC compliance
- Straightforward applications
- Fast 24 hour disbursal
- Reasonable interest rates
This keeps your loan experience smooth, safe and stress-free. With the right legal lending partner, quick access to emergency or business financing is now in your hands!
FAQs
What are the requirements for legal lending companies in the Philippines?
Legal lending companies must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and comply with Republic Act No. 9474 or the Lending Company Regulation Act of 2007. They require certain paid-up capital, reserve funds and more.
Can I go to jail for not paying my loan?
No. Failure to pay loans is a civil offense not criminal offense in the Philippines. Legal lenders cannot send borrowers to jail but can take civil legal action for outstanding debts.
What is the maximum legal interest rate on loans?
Under Republic Act No. 9474, legal lending companies cannot charge over 6% interest per month or 72% annually on loans. Legitimate lenders keep interest rates reasonable at 30-60% annually.
A computer engineer by day, gamer by night. He grew up playing Mario and contra, and just like every other 90s kid, he got passionate about mobile gaming. He had done bachelors in computer science and played fps and MOBA games for years.