Use your own details
The bank account, cellphone number and email must be yours. Mismatches are the most common reason for delays.
Your first RandLeaf loan
Same prices as everyone, a lower first-loan limit and a full assessment. Here is how a first application works and what to have ready.
Your first application, step by step
A first application takes a little longer than a repeat one, because there is no history to lean on yet. Expect four steps.
Choose with the calculator
Set the loan type to “First loan”. It limits the amount to the first-loan maximum for each product.
Have your details ready
Your ID, proof of income, your bank account and a realistic list of monthly expenses.
A full assessment
As a new customer we check your identity, bank account, credit record and affordability in full.
Quote, agreement, payout
If approved, you read the quote and agreement, confirm the DebiCheck request, and the money is paid.
How much a first loan can be
| Loan | First loan | Returning customers | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term loan | R500–R2 000 | Up to R3 000 | 1 month |
| Instalment loan | R1 000–R5 000 | Up to R8 000 | 2–6 months |
| Personal loan | R5 000–R10 000 | Up to R20 000 | 7–12 months |
What changes after your first loan
| First loan | After repaying a RandLeaf loan | |
|---|---|---|
| Interest rate and fees | Published price list | The same published price list |
| Maximum amount | Lower first-loan maximums | Up to each product’s maximum |
| Assessment | Full | Full again, with your updated details |
| Documents | All requested | Only what has changed or expired may be asked for |
| RandLeaf Roots | Not applicable | Proposed R30 off the initiation fee, once active |
Three things that make a first application smoother
Count every expense
Include transport, school fees and money you send to family. An honest budget protects you as much as us.
Match your payday
Pick a repayment date a day or two after your salary usually lands, so the debit order doesn’t bounce.
First loan questions
Will a first loan help my credit record?
Lenders report repayments to credit bureaus, so repaying on time adds positive history. Missed repayments are reported too.
Can I ask for less than I’m offered?
Yes. You can always accept a smaller amount, and we encourage borrowing only what you need.
What if I’m declined?
You can ask us for the reasons and which credit bureau we used. What a decline means and what to do next.
Start with the numbers.
Set the calculator to “First loan” and see what your repayments would be before you share any details.