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Overdraft accounts and short-term loans are both flexible options to consider. Although both overdrafts and short-term loans can be solutions to similar financial problems, they work in different ways. It’s important for customers looking for access to a a bit of extra money understand exactly where their differences lie, and how each option can affect someone's short-term cash flow.
If you're struggling financially and would like to speak to someone for free financial advice, information and assistance you can call the Financial Counsellors hotline on 1800 007 007 (open from 9:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday). If you are suffering financial problems related to the coronavirus pandemic you may be eligible for additional support. Find out more here: https://www.finder.com.au/coronavirus-financial-help
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Overdrafts act as a revolving line of credit linked to a normal transaction account. An overdraft account gives the user access to extra money when they've used up the funds in their account. The customer's financial institution sets their overdraft limit, usually based on the customer's circumstances.
In contrast, short-term loans are lump-sum loans disbursed upfront and can range anywhere from $100 to $10,000. A short-term loan has structured repayment terms that can be anywhere from a few weeks to one year.
Overdraft | Short-term loan | |
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Associated costs |
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Loan term | Ongoing | 16 days to two years |
Access and availability |
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If someone has a normal bank account and frequently find themselves in the red, an overdraft can protect them against overdrawn account fees. Since an overdraft acts like a revolving line of credit, it’ll always be available as long as they're making repayments towards their balance.
An overdraft account can be a practical solution for repeat borrowing scenarios, especially since users don’t have to keep reapplying for a new loan. Also, they're always able to instantly get access to their funds, either via online banking or simply by using their debit card.
In some situations, an overdraft may not be so useful. For one, if someone needs more funds than what an overdraft can give them, a short-term loan may be another option. Also, some people may not qualify for an overdraft. With short-term loans, customers are able to get access to lump-sum loans that are disbursed within 24 hours.
Repayment terms for short-term loans can be anywhere from a few weeks to a year, allowing for quick repayment. This is useful for covering income gaps, to purchase essentials or to cover expenses until payday (where other options aren’t possible). However, short-term loans are not long-term financial solutions, and usually come with the maximum fees and interest attached to them. Even small loans can end up being very expensive very quickly.
In either case, when considering an overdraft account or short-term loan, prospective applicants should make sure they're fully aware of the costs associated with each option. More importantly, they need to be completely aware of how any financing option will affect their short-term cash flow and their ability to make repayments.
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