How does managing my credit in a positive way help when I apply for a loan?

Looking after your credit isn’t about quick tricks. It’s about simple habits that make Future You look good on paper.

When you apply for a loan – with Nimble or anyone else – lenders look at how you’ve handled credit in the past and how comfortably you can manage new repayments. Managing your credit in a positive way is one of the best things you can do to put yourself in a stronger position when you choose to apply.

No promises, no guarantees – just better odds than going in unprepared.

What lenders are usually checking

Every lender is different, but most will look at things like:

• Your credit report and score

  – how often you’ve applied for credit, whether you’ve paid on time, and any defaults or serious arrears.

• Your current money picture

  – income, regular expenses and existing debts.

• The loan itself

  – how big it is and whether the repayments look affordable for you.

Nimble is similar: your credit history is important, but it’s only one part of the story. We also look at your overall situation and ability to repay comfortably.

Simple habits that can help your chances

These habits don’t guarantee an approval, but they generally help your credit look healthier when you do apply:

1. Pay on time, as often as you can Paying your loans, credit cards and bills by the due date is one of the strongest “green flags” on your credit report. A solid run of on-time payments can show you’re reliable; lots of missed or late payments can make approval harder. Little helpers: direct debits, calendar reminders, or a budgeting app so due dates don’t sneak up on you.

2. Keep your debts and limits under control Maxed-out cards and lots of short-term debts can be a warning sign. Using only part of your available credit (instead of sitting near the limit all the time) generally looks better to lenders and can support a healthier score over time.

3. Go easy on new credit applications Every time you apply for a loan or credit card, it can show up as an enquiry on your credit report. A cluster of applications in a short space of time can look like financial stress. Applying only when you genuinely need to – and for products you’re likely to be eligible for – can help.

4. Check your credit report and fix any mistakes You can request a copy of your credit report from the main Australian credit reporting bodies (like Equifax, Experian and illion). When you get it, check that:

• Your personal details are correct

• All accounts listed actually belong to you

• Old or incorrect negative listings have been removed

If something doesn’t look right, you can ask the credit reporting body or the credit provider to investigate and fix it.

5. Avoid over-committing Lenders look at how much you earn, what you spend on essentials, and what you already owe. Keeping other debts manageable – and not taking on more than you can comfortably repay – can make your application look stronger when it’s time to be assessed.

6. Build a small buffer & keep an eye on your spending Even a small emergency stash can help you handle surprise costs (like car repairs or a bigger power bill) without missing repayments. Checking your statements regularly can also help you spot subscriptions or spending that are quietly getting in the way.

Where Nimble fits in

While we can’t give personal financial advice or guarantee an approval, here’s how positive credit habits connect to Nimble.

Comprehensive Credit Reporting (CCR) Like many Australian credit providers, Nimble may share both positive and negative repayment information with credit reporting bodies under Comprehensive Credit Reporting (CCR).

That means:

• Making your Nimble repayments on time can help build up a record of positive repayment history on your credit file.

• Missing repayments or falling into arrears can be recorded and may affect your credit history for a while.

Over time, a stronger overall credit history may improve how you’re viewed by Nimble and other lenders – but every application still depends on your full situation at the time.

Fair assessment, not just a number Your credit score matters, but it’s not the only thing. Nimble also looks at your income, expenses and other commitments to decide whether a loan is suitable and affordable for you.

If you’ve been:

• Paying on time

• Keeping debts and limits under control

• Avoiding lots of last-minute applications

…you’re generally in a better position than if you haven’t – even though nothing is guaranteed.

If you’re already with Nimble and things change If you’re worried about an upcoming Nimble repayment, the best move is to reach out as early as you can. We may be able to look at options with you, which can sometimes help you avoid extra fees and more serious impacts on your credit history.

A quick reminder

• This FAQ is

  general information only

  – it doesn’t take your personal situation into account and isn’t financial advice.

• A healthy credit history can improve your chances, but no lender (including Nimble) can promise an approval or a specific credit score.

• If you’re unsure what’s right for you, a qualified financial adviser or a free financial counsellor can help you talk through your options.