Cash Loans

A cash loan puts money directly into your bank account, usually within 15 minutes of approval. Whether you need to cover an unexpected bill, emergency repairs, or a sudden expense, cash loans provide quick access to funds when timing matters. With flexible repayment terms from 3 to 36 months, you can spread the cost in a way that works for your budget.

We’re a broker, which means we search our network of trusted lenders to find you the best match. You get multiple options from one application, and we handle the comparison work for you. Our 4.5 out of 5 star rating on Trustpilot from over 7,385 reviews reflects genuine customer experiences, and with 7,500+ daily quotes, we’re helping people right now.

See if you match

Why choose Sunny:

• Soft credit check only – won’t affect your score
• No fees from Sunny
• Compare offers before you commit
• 15-minute funding if approved

Warning: Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For help, go to moneyhelper.org.uk

What Are Cash Loans?

Cash loans are short-term loans that put money directly into your bank account, typically within hours or even minutes of approval. Despite the name, you don’t receive physical cash. Instead, funds are transferred electronically to your account, giving you immediate access to spend, withdraw, or transfer as needed.

The term “cash loan” emphasises speed and liquidity. When you need money urgently, a cash loan provides quick access to funds without waiting days for traditional loan processing. You can use the money for any purpose, from covering emergency costs to managing unexpected bills that can’t wait until your next payday.

Cash loans through Sunny range from £100 to £2,500 with repayment terms between 3 and 36 months. This flexibility means you can borrow only what you need and choose a repayment schedule that fits your budget. Unlike traditional payday loans that require full repayment within 30 days, cash loans offer more breathing room to spread the cost.

Common reasons people choose cash loans include car repairs that need immediate attention, broken boilers in winter, emergency vet bills, or unexpected household appliances breaking down. These are the moments when having quick access to funds makes a real difference. Need larger amounts for more substantial expenses? Our £1000 loans provide additional funding options whilst maintaining the same fast approval process.

How Cash Loans Work

Getting a cash loan through Sunny follows a straightforward process designed to get you matched with lenders quickly whilst protecting your credit score.

Step 1: Apply online in minutes. Complete our simple online form with basic details about yourself and how much you need to borrow. The application takes around two minutes and asks for information that helps us understand your circumstances.

Step 2: We search our lender network. As soon as you submit your application, we use a soft credit search to check your eligibility across multiple FCA-authorised lenders. This soft search is invisible to other lenders and won’t affect your credit score, so you can check your options safely.

Step 3: Compare your matches. If lenders want to offer you a cash loan, we’ll show you the options available. You can compare interest rates, repayment terms, and monthly payment amounts side by side. Take your time reviewing the offers with no pressure to accept anything.

Step 4: Choose your preferred lender. Once you’ve found an offer that works for you, you apply directly to that lender. They’ll complete a full credit check at this stage, which will appear on your credit file. You’ll need to provide some additional details to finalise your application.

Step 5: Receive your funds. If approved, the lender transfers money directly to your bank account. With many of our partner lenders offering 15-minute funding capability, you could have access to your cash loan on the same day, often within an hour of final approval.

The entire process happens online, available 24/7 every day of the year. You don’t need to visit a branch, make phone calls, or wait for business hours. If you need money outside traditional banking hours, facing an urgent situation requiring immediate attention, emergency loans provide the same rapid access with lenders who specialise in urgent approvals.

How Much Do Cash Loans Cost?

Understanding the cost of borrowing helps you make informed decisions about whether a cash loan suits your situation. At Sunny, transparency matters, so we’ll explain exactly what you can expect to pay.

Our representative APR is 89%, though the rate you’re offered depends on your personal circumstances. APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate and shows the total cost of borrowing over a year, including interest and any fees. The actual APR you receive may be higher or lower, ranging from 9.3% to 1,721% depending on factors like your credit history, income, and the loan amount and term you choose.

Representative example: If you borrow £1,000 over 18 months at our representative rate, your monthly payment would be £102.42. You’d repay a total of £1,843.60, meaning the total interest charged is £843.60. The interest rate is 89% per annum (fixed) for this example.

Why do rates vary so much? Lenders assess each application individually, considering your credit history, current income, existing financial commitments, and the loan term you select. Someone with an excellent credit history borrowing over a longer term typically receives a lower rate than someone with poor credit borrowing short-term. This personalised approach means your actual rate reflects your specific situation.

The loan term you choose significantly affects both your monthly payments and the total amount you repay. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less interest overall. Longer terms reduce your monthly commitment but increase the total cost. For example, borrowing £500 over 3 months results in higher monthly payments than spreading it over 6 months, but you pay less interest in total. Looking for more manageable monthly payments? 12 month loans spread the cost over a full year, reducing each individual payment whilst giving you time to rebuild your finances.

One crucial point: Sunny never charges you any fees. You won’t pay application fees, arrangement fees, or service charges to use our brokerage service. We earn commission from lenders when customers like you enter into loan agreements, so our service remains completely free for you to use.

Who Can Apply for Cash Loans?

Cash loans are available to UK residents who meet basic eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements before applying saves time and helps you determine whether you’re likely to be accepted.

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a cash loan through Sunny. This is a legal requirement across all consumer credit in the UK, with no exceptions.

UK residency is required. You need to be a permanent UK resident with a valid UK address. Lenders verify your address history, typically asking for the last three years of addresses you’ve lived at.

Minimum monthly income of £500 is needed. Lenders want to see that you have regular income coming in, whether from employment, benefits, or other stable sources. This income requirement helps ensure you can afford the monthly repayments without financial strain.

You need a UK bank account and debit card. Lenders transfer your cash loan directly to your bank account and set up repayments via direct debit, so an active UK bank account is essential.

You cannot be currently bankrupt or in an active insolvency arrangement. If you’re going through bankruptcy proceedings or an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), lenders cannot offer you additional credit.

What about credit history? Here’s the good news: whilst lenders do check your credit file, having bad credit doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Many of our partner lenders specialise in helping people whose credit isn’t perfect. They look at your current circumstances, including your income and affordability, rather than judging you solely on past financial difficulties. Past credit issues don’t tell your whole story, and lenders in our network understand that. If you’re specifically concerned about your credit history affecting your application, our bad credit loans connect you with lenders who look beyond your credit score to assess your current ability to repay.

Even with good credit and meeting all criteria, approval isn’t guaranteed. Lenders conduct thorough affordability assessments to ensure you can comfortably manage repayments alongside your existing financial commitments. This responsible lending approach protects you from borrowing more than you can realistically afford.

Why Use a Broker Like Sunny?

Understanding the difference between using a broker and applying directly to a single lender helps you appreciate the advantages we offer.

We’re a broker, not a lender. This distinction matters because it shapes how we serve you. We don’t make lending decisions ourselves. Instead, we connect you with FCA-authorised lenders in our network who can offer you cash loans. This broker model creates several important benefits for you.

You get access to multiple lenders from one application. Rather than visiting five different lender websites, filling out five separate forms, and potentially triggering five hard credit checks, you complete one application with Sunny. We search across our entire network of lenders to find matches for your circumstances. This saves enormous time and protects your credit score from multiple enquiries.

Better chances of approval. Different lenders have different lending criteria and appetites. One lender might decline you whilst another readily approves. By searching multiple lenders simultaneously, we increase your chances of finding a lender willing to say yes. You’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.

We never charge you fees. Our brokerage service is completely free for you to use. When you accept a loan offer and enter into an agreement with a lender, that lender pays us a referral fee. This means we’re incentivised to find you suitable matches, but it never costs you anything. No application fees, no service charges, no hidden costs.

Soft credit search protects your score. When we initially search for lender matches, we use a soft credit search that’s only visible to you. It doesn’t appear on the credit file that other lenders see, so it won’t affect your credit score. You only get a hard search if you choose to proceed with a specific lender’s offer. This lets you safely explore your options without damaging your creditworthiness.

FCA protection across all lenders. Every lender in our network is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This means they all follow strict rules on responsible lending, fair treatment, and transparent communication. You get consistent regulatory protection no matter which lender you choose. Want to combine the benefits of brokerage with flexible repayment options? Our 6 month loans balance manageable monthly payments with reasonable repayment timescales, giving you breathing room without extending debt too long.

Regulatory oversight of Sunny. We operate as Upward Finance Limited (Company No. 11365247), an Appointed Representative of Flux Funding Limited (FRN 806333), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This structure ensures we meet regulatory standards in how we operate our brokerage service.

Cash in Your Account – What Makes It Different

The defining feature of cash loans is the emphasis on getting money into your hands rapidly. In today’s digital banking environment, “cash” doesn’t mean physical notes and coins. It means immediate liquidity and spending power available in your account.

Speed is the priority. Cash loans are designed for situations where timing matters. The faster payment systems and real-time banking transfers that have become standard in the UK make it possible to receive money in your account within minutes rather than days. This rapid access distinguishes cash loans from traditional personal loans that might take several working days to process.

15-minute funding capability. Many lenders in our network can transfer funds within 15 minutes of final approval. This isn’t a marketing claim – it’s a genuine capability made possible by modern banking infrastructure. Of course, the exact timing depends on factors like when you apply, how quickly you provide any requested documentation, and your bank’s processing times, but same-day funding is standard for most approved applications.

24/7 availability. Unlike traditional banks with business hours, our online application process operates around the clock. You can apply at 2am on a Sunday or 11pm on a bank holiday. Whilst lender decisions may take slightly longer outside business hours, the ability to start your application whenever you need it provides flexibility that branch-based lending can’t match.

Direct bank transfer means instant access. Once the lender releases your funds, the money appears in your bank account ready to use. You can immediately pay bills online, transfer money to others, withdraw cash from an ATM, or use your debit card to make purchases. This direct deposit approach gives you complete control over how you use the funds.

Practical liquidity for real situations. Cash loans serve a specific purpose: providing immediate financial liquidity when unexpected costs arise. Your boiler breaks in January. Your car fails its MOT and needs urgent repairs. Your washing machine floods the kitchen. These situations can’t wait for your next payday or a lengthy loan approval process. Cash loans bridge the gap between unexpected expense and available funds. Need even faster access for truly urgent situations? Same day loans prioritise rapid transfers specifically for time-sensitive emergencies, with lenders who specialise in ultra-quick approvals.

The “cash” terminology reflects this practical reality. You need spending power right now, not next week. The loan puts that spending power directly into your account where you can access it immediately. This immediacy and accessibility define what makes cash loans valuable for emergency funding needs.

Check your eligibility now

What makes us different:

• 1M+ customers trust us
• 4.5/5 stars on Trustpilot
• 7,500+ daily quotes processed
• FCA-authorised and regulated
• No fees from Sunny – ever
• Soft credit check only – won’t affect your score

What to Consider Before Applying

Borrowing money is a serious commitment. Taking time to consider these important factors helps ensure a cash loan is the right choice for your situation.

Only borrow what you genuinely need. It’s tempting to borrow extra “just in case” or to have a financial cushion, but every pound borrowed costs money in interest. If your car repair costs £600, borrow £600, not £1,000. Borrowing more than necessary increases your total repayment amount and monthly commitments without providing real value.

Can you afford the monthly repayments? This is the most critical question. Look at your monthly income and regular expenses to determine what you can realistically afford to repay each month. Lenders conduct affordability checks, but you know your financial situation best. If meeting the monthly payment would cause significant hardship or mean missing other bills, the loan isn’t affordable regardless of lender approval.

Consider cheaper alternatives first. Could you borrow from family or friends interest-free? Can you negotiate a payment plan with whoever you owe money to? Would your employer advance your wages? Explore these options before committing to a loan with interest charges. Cash loans solve immediate problems but cost more than alternatives when available.

Understand the total cost of borrowing. Don’t just focus on monthly payments. Calculate the total amount you’ll repay over the full loan term. This total includes all interest charges and gives you the true cost of borrowing. Compare this cost against the urgency of your need to ensure you’re making an informed decision.

Think about the loan term carefully. Shorter terms mean less interest overall but higher monthly payments. Longer terms reduce monthly pressure but increase total cost. Choose a term that balances affordability with minimising interest charges. You can always pay off your loan early if your circumstances improve, potentially saving on interest.

Check you can pay early without penalties. Some lenders charge early repayment fees whilst others don’t. If there’s any chance you’ll have extra money before the loan term ends, confirm whether you can pay off your balance early and whether doing so will save you money on interest.

Only borrow for genuine needs, not wants. Cash loans work best for unexpected expenses that genuinely can’t wait, like emergency repairs or urgent bills. They’re not suitable for funding holidays, entertainment, or non-essential purchases. The high interest rates mean borrowing for wants rather than needs becomes very expensive.

Know where to get help if you’re struggling with debt. If you’re already finding it difficult to manage existing debts, taking on another loan could make things worse. Free, impartial debt advice is available from organisations like StepChange and Citizens Advice. They can help you explore all your options, including debt management plans, before you borrow more.

How Sunny Protects You

Your safety and protection matter throughout the borrowing process. We’ve built multiple safeguards into how we operate to ensure you’re treated fairly and can borrow with confidence.

Full FCA authorisation and regulation. We operate under strict Financial Conduct Authority oversight. Upward Finance Limited (trading as Sunny) is an Appointed Representative of Flux Funding Limited (FRN 806333), which holds full FCA authorisation. This regulatory structure ensures we meet high standards for fair treatment, transparent communication, and responsible lending practices.

All partner lenders are FCA-authorised. Every single lender in our network holds their own FCA authorisation. This means they’re individually accountable to the regulator for their lending decisions and customer treatment. You’re never matched with unlicensed or unregulated lenders.

Soft credit search protects your score. Your initial eligibility check uses a soft search that won’t affect your credit score or appear to other lenders. Only you can see this search on your credit report. This protection lets you explore your options safely without damaging your creditworthiness. You only get a hard search if you actively choose to proceed with a specific lender’s offer.

Complete data security and encryption. We use industry-standard encryption to protect your personal and financial information. Your data is transmitted securely and stored safely in compliance with UK data protection regulations. We never share your information with third parties except the lenders you choose to apply to.

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We clearly display all costs upfront, including representative APR and example calculations. Each lender shows you their exact terms, interest rates, and total repayable amount before you commit. There are no hidden charges or surprise fees buried in small print.

Cooling-off rights under consumer credit regulations. While we don’t operate our own cooling-off period, UK consumer credit law typically provides a 14-day cooling-off period once you enter into a credit agreement. This allows you time to change your mind. Each lender explains their specific cancellation terms when you accept an offer.

Right to complain and seek redress. If you’re unhappy with our service, you have the right to complain. We’ll work to resolve any issues quickly and fairly. If you remain dissatisfied, you can escalate your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which provides free independent dispute resolution for financial services.

Responsible lending standards across our network. All our partner lenders follow responsible lending rules, including affordability checks and fair treatment requirements. They must ensure you can afford repayments before lending to you. This protects you from taking on unaffordable debt.

The Application Process

Understanding exactly what happens during your application removes uncertainty and helps you prepare the information you’ll need.

What information you’ll need: Your personal details including full name, date of birth, and contact information. Your address history for the last three years. Your employment status and monthly income. Bank account details for receiving funds. Basic information about your monthly expenses and any existing credit commitments. Having this information ready before starting speeds up the process.

How long does it take? Our initial application form takes around two minutes to complete. Once submitted, our system searches for lender matches instantly. You’ll typically see results within seconds. If matched with lenders, you can review offers immediately. Applying to your chosen lender adds another few minutes for their additional questions. From start to final approval typically takes between 15 minutes and a few hours depending on how quickly you provide any requested documents.

What happens after you apply? After submitting your Sunny application, we perform an instant soft credit search across our lender network. If lenders want to offer you a cash loan, we display these matches in your dashboard. You review the offers at your own pace with no pressure. When you find an offer you like, you apply directly to that lender by clicking through to their application.

The lender’s final checks. Once you apply to a specific lender, they’ll conduct a full credit check (which appears on your credit file) and may request additional documentation. This typically includes recent bank statements to verify your income and existing commitments. Some lenders use Open Banking to access this information directly with your permission, making the process faster.

Approval and funding. If approved, the lender sends you a credit agreement to review and digitally sign. Once you’ve signed, they process your loan and transfer funds to your bank account. With many lenders offering 15-minute funding capability, you could have money available within an hour of final approval. Most banks credit your account within minutes of the lender releasing funds.

Setting up repayments. Your repayments are set up automatically via direct debit from the bank account you provided. You’ll receive a schedule showing exactly when each payment will be taken. Make sure you have sufficient funds in your account on each payment date to avoid missed payments and potential fees.

What if you need more time? You can save your Sunny application and return to it later if you’re not ready to proceed immediately. Your soft credit search results remain valid, so you can take time to consider your options without needing to reapply.

Find your match today

Why you can count on Sunny:

• Over 1 million customers since 2022
• 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot (7,385 reviews)
• 7,500+ daily quotes processed
• FCA-authorised broker and lenders
• Never any fees from Sunny
• Soft credit check won’t affect your score

Important Information:

Representative Example: Borrowing £1,000 over 18 months at our representative rate means 18 monthly payments of £102.42. Total amount repayable: £1,843.60. Total interest: £843.60. Interest rate: 89% per annum (fixed). Representative 89% APR.

The rate you are offered will depend on your individual circumstances and may differ from our representative APR.

Warning: Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For help, go to moneyhelper.org.uk

Need Debt Support? Free, confidential advice is available from:

• StepChange – Free debt advice charity
• Citizens Advice – Free, impartial advice on debt and money
• National Debtline – Free confidential debt advice