Category: Loan
Should I get a loan? What to consider before applying
It’s important to think about the responsibility a loan brings. We’ve put together some points to consider, so your decision can be made with confidence.
5 min read
Finance Guides
Discover everything you need to know about credit cards, loans, mortgages, insurance and more with our in-depth guides. Written by experts, we aim to answer all your burning finance questions - in an easy-to-understand way.
Loans
Mortgages
Credit Cards
Car Finance
Insurance
Loans
Remortgages
Bad Credit
Credit Cards
Debt Consolidation
Secured Loans
Personal Loans
Homeowner Loans
Car Insurance
Mortgages
- Category: Loan
How to calculate interest on a loan
Learn how to calculate interest on a loan with our simple UK guide. Understand APR, interest rates, and monthly payments to make smarter borrowing decisions.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
4 min read
- Category: Loan
Fixed or variable rate on a loan?
When getting a loan, you might wonder if you should choose a fixed or variable interest rate. We discuss the key differences to help you make a decision.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Remortgage
What are your options if you can’t remortgage?
If you find yourself in a situation where you’re unable to remortgage your property, this guide will help you find the options available to help you out.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
6 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
Pros and cons of bad credit loans
Do you have a poor credit history but need to borrow? Discover more about the pros and cons of bad credit loans and learn how you can apply today.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How much does a credit card cost?
Find out how much a credit card costs in the UK, including fees, interest rates, and ways to use it without paying extra.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What is a Mastercard?
Learn what Mastercard is, how it works, and what it means for your credit, debit or prepaid card when you use it in shops, online or abroad.
Article written by Fiona Peake
2 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How to switch credit cards
Thinking of switching credit cards? Learn how it works, what to look for, and how to choose the right card for your needs with confidence.
Article written by Fiona Peake
6 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
How to get a loan with no credit
Need a loan but have no credit history? Discover your options including guarantor loans, credit unions, and specialist lenders.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How long does it take to improve your credit score?
Some actions can improve your credit score in months, while others will take longer. Making payments on time and having utility bills in your name will boost your score.
Article written by Emma Lunn
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Hard vs soft credit checks – what’s the difference?
Hard credit checks are visible to organisations looking in-depth at your credit history. Soft credit searches are only visible to you.
Article written by Emma Lunn
6 min read
- Category: Car Finance
What credit score do you need for car finance?
There isn’t a minimum credit score needed for car finance, but a higher score can result in a cheaper deal. Some car finance companies specialise in car buyers with bad credit.
Article written by Emma Lunn
4 min read
- Category: Loan
Do loans affect your credit score?
Yes, loans affect your credit score. They can help or hurt it depending on how you manage repayments and debt. Learn how to protect your score.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
The advantages and disadvantages of credit cards
Are you thinking about taking out a credit card? Find out the pros and cons before you apply to make sure you’re making the right decision for you.
Article written by Fiona Peake
6 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
5 ways to borrow money with bad credit
If you are struggling to borrow money with bad credit, there may still be loans and credit cards available to you. Read on to find the borrowing option for you.
Article written by Josephine Haagen
6 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What is the minimum payment on your credit card?
Learn the importance of making the minimum payment on your credit card. Find out how it works, why paying more is better, and how to manage payments to avoid extra interest and debt.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Debt Consolidation
Can I get a debt consolidation loan without collateral?
Our guide looks at whether you can get a debt consolidation loan without collateral and the pros and cons of secured and unsecured finance.
Article written by Verity Hogan
6 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What is credit card pre-approval and how does it work?
Getting pre-approved for a credit card can feel like a win. Discover what you can do to improve your chances of being pre-approved, and what it means if you are.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Should you close an unused credit card?
Wondering whether to close an unused credit card? Learn how it can affect your credit score and what to consider before making a decision.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can I get a credit card as a new UK resident?
Just moved to the UK and planning to apply for a credit card? There are ways to improve your chances of being accepted when you arrive.
Article written by Josephine Haagen
3 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How do refunds on credit cards work?
How long does a credit card refund take? Find out how refunds work, what affects the timing and what you can do if something goes wrong.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you pay someone with a credit card?
Wondering if you can pay friends, family, or even your builder with a credit card? Learn your options, costs, and the best ways to pay someone safely with your credit card.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you get a credit card with no credit?
Find out how to get a credit card with no credit history, how credit builder cards work, and simple tips to start building your credit score.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you get a credit card with no limit?
Find out if credit cards with no set credit limit exist, how they work, and whether they might be right for you.
Article written by Fiona Peake
3 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you get a joint credit card?
A joint credit card could help you keep track of shared spending. Understand how a joint credit card works and who is responsible for repaying the debt.
Article written by Fiona Peake
3 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you get a credit card with fair credit?
Yes, you can get a credit card with fair credit. Learn what fair credit means, which cards you can apply for, and how to boost your chances of approval.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can I freeze my credit card?
Yes, you can freeze your credit card to prevent fraud, control spending, or manage financial difficulties. Learn the steps, reasons, and how freezing your card affects your credit score.
Article written by Fiona Peake
6 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you get a credit card with no credit check?
Worried about your credit score? Find out if you can get a credit card without a credit check, explore your options, and learn how to build your credit with confidence.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How old do you have to be to get a credit card?
Wondering when to apply for a credit card? Get tips on the right age to do it and steps to take for your first card.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you buy a car with a credit card?
Can you buy a car with a credit card? Learn when it’s possible, the pros and cons, and how to protect yourself and manage costs effectively.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you be in credit on a credit card?
Find out how you can end up being in credit on your credit card, and why it’s not necessarily a good thing.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can a graduate get a credit card?
Find out how to get a graduate credit card, what providers look for, and the easy steps that help you build your credit score after uni.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
Can I get a secured loan with bad credit?
Can you get a secured loan with bad credit? We explain eligibility, rates, risks and how to apply successfully.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What is an annual fee?
Wondering how to find out more about annual fees and what kind of rewards come with them? We explain everything you need to know in plain English.
Article written by Fiona Peake
3 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
How to get a personal loan
Follow our guide and learn how to find and apply for a loan, plus boost your chances of approval.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What is a prepaid card?
We look at the ins and outs of prepaid cards, what you should use them for and if they impact your credit score.
Article written by Alice Williams
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can I withdraw cash from a credit card?
Yes, you can withdraw cash from a credit card, but it's expensive. Learn about cash advance fees (3% or £3), interest rates of 25-30%, and cheaper alternatives.
Article written by Fiona Peake
3 min read
- Category: Debt Consolidation
Does consolidating debt affect buying a home?
Our guide looks at whether consolidating debt could change your mortgage eligibility.
Article written by Verity Hogan
6 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How does credit card interest work?
Learn how credit card interest works and the things you can do to reduce how much you pay in fees and interest.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Homeowner Loan
Can I get a homeowner loan with bad credit?
Find out what lenders look for when you apply for a homeowner loan, and if it’s possible to get approved with a bad credit history.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can I get a credit card with a CCJ?
If you have a CCJ or bad credit history, your options for finance will be limited. However, may still be eligible for a credit card if you show lenders you can borrow responsibly.
Article written by Josephine Haagen
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Why is my credit score different on different sites?
You don’t have just one credit score. The three UK credit reference agencies each use different information and formulas to calculate your credit score.
Article written by Emma Lunn
3 min read
- Category: Mortgage
How to buy someone out of your house
We look at what's involved in buying someone, like an ex-partner, out of a home you own together,
Article written by Helen Fox
7 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How do I know when to pay my credit card?
Learn when and how to pay your credit card bill to avoid interest charges, late fees, and damage to your credit score.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Does being on the electoral roll improve your credit score?
Being on the electoral roll will boost your credit score. Find out how to get on the electoral roll and how to check your voting registration shows on your credit report.
Article written by Emma Lunn
5 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
Can I get a credit card if I’ve had an IVA?
If you have an IVA, you’re usually not allowed to borrow over £500. However, you may have alternative options after your IVA.
Article written by Josephine Haagen
5 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
How many personal loans can you have at once?
Can you have multiple personal loans? Learn the risks, lender policies, and safer debt management alternatives.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
Can a guarantor have bad credit?
Can a guarantor have bad credit? Learn how credit history affects guarantor eligibility, what lenders check, and how it impacts your credit score.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
4 min read
- Category: Loan
Can I borrow more money on an existing loan?
Need to borrow more? Learn how to borrow more on an existing loan, explore your options, and find out what you can afford to repay.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
4 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
What to do if you have a CCJ
If you find a surprise County Court Judgement on your credit report, don’t ignore it. Read on to find out the steps you need to take to deal with a CCJ.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
6 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
Can I take out a personal loan without a job?
Are you unemployed but need to borrow? Learn how you can apply for a personal loan without a job in the comprehensive guide from Ocean Finance.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Credit Card
How you can be smart with your credit card - 10 tips
Want to build your credit score and avoid interest charges? Learn how to use your credit card smartly with 10 top tips from Ocean Finance.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
What happens if you miss a credit card payment?
Learn what happens if you miss a credit card payment, how it affects your credit score, and what steps you can take to minimise the impact. Find helpful tips and support options to stay on track.
Article written by Fiona Peake
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Do I have to pay my credit card in full every month?
You don’t need to pay off your full credit card balance every month, but you’ll be charged interest if you don’t. Find out more in our quick guide.
Article written by Jimmy Coultas
4 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can my credit card get declined?
Yes - your credit card can get declined just like a debit card. Find out the reasons why and learn what to do if your card is declined in our helpful guide.
Article written by Fiona Peake
5 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
Can a student get a personal loan?
Do you need to top up your student loan for an unexpected bill? Find out if a student can get a personal loan plus how much you can apply for here.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Loan
Should you get an overdraft or a loan?
If you need to borrow money quickly, you might be considering an overdraft or a loan. Find out which one is right for your circumstances here.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
How to remove mistakes from your credit report
Found an error on your credit report? Keeping your file up to date can help improve your score. Find out how to fix mistakes on your report here.
Article written by Josephine Haagen
6 min read
- Category: Bad Credit
Can I get a home improvement loan with bad credit?
Can you get a home improvement loan with bad credit? Yes! Discover your options and how to improve your chances of approval.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
How can I cancel my car insurance?
If you’re looking to cancel your car insurance policy, read our guide to learn the right way to proceed, step by step.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Loan
How to repay your loan quickly - 10 tips
If you can afford to pay off your debt faster, you could save on interest fees. Discover our top 10 tips for repaying your loan quickly here.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
Is it better to get a secured loan or remortgage?
Secured loans vs remortgaging. Learn about the costs, risks to your home, and which option might work best for you.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Mortgage
The essential criteria to apply for a mortgage explained
To make sure you’re prepared when it comes to your mortgage application, read on to learn all the essential criteria.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
6 min read
- Category: Homeowner Loan
Do you need a credit check for a homeowner loan?
Lenders check your credit history when you apply for a homeowner or secured loan. Find out what they look for and what to do if you have bad credit here.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
Secured loan application process
A secured loan is where you borrow money against an asset like your home. Learn how to apply for a secured loan with these 3 simple steps.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Mortgage
Can you get a mortgage with bad credit?
If you’re unsure whether your credit score will hold you back from getting a mortgage approved, read our guide to find out what options are available.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Mortgage
A step-by-step guide to mortgage applications
We’ve created a step-by-step process to apply for a mortgage, to help you prepare your application and answer your burning questions.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
What types of car insurance are available?
Unsure of which type of car insurance is for you? Our guide to the three main types of cover will help you make up your mind.
Article written by Sarah Neate
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
Is my car insured?
If you’re uncertain about whether your car is covered by a valid insurance policy, read our guide to learn how you can find out for sure.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
2 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Should I pay off my loan or credit card first?
Work out which debt is a priority and save on interest and charges. Learn if you should pay off your loan or credit card first with Ocean Finance.
Article written by Jimmy Coultas
9 min read
- Category: Credit Card
Can you lower your credit card interest rate?
Learn how to lower your credit card interest by improving your credit score, negotiating with your issuer, and using balance transfer cards.
Article written by Fiona Peake
3 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
Can I drive another car on my insurance?
If you’re confused about what you can and can’t do while covered by your car insurance policy, our guide offers some expert pointers.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
How does car insurance work?
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you understand the car insurance process, how it works and what you need to apply.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
How do I change my car insurance policy?
Looking for a better deal on your car insurance? Want to change providers? Our guide will walk you through how to make that switch simple.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
6 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
Car Insurance for New Drivers Explained
If you’ve just passed your test and are eager to get on the road, it’s important to know the ins and outs of car insurance. We’ve got you covered.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
What is car insurance excess?
Learn more about car insurance excess payments with our in-depth guide on when they apply to you and your policy.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
3 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
What happens if I don’t insure my car?
Car insurance is a legal requirement as a motorist in the UK. If you’re thinking of driving uninsured, read on to find out why you should reconsider.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
2 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
What happens if I default on a secured loan?
If you default on your secured loan, your home could be repossessed. Find out what to do if you miss a payment in our comprehensive guide.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
6 min read
- Category: Mortgage
Applying for a mortgage with credit card debt
Will credit card debt affect your mortgage application? What else will lenders look at on your application? Find out more in the Ocean Finance guide.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
12 min read
- Category: Loan
Can I freeze my loan repayments?
If you need a temporary break from paying your loan, you can freeze it. Find out more about freezing your loan repayments and the effects in our guide.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Mortgage
A comprehensive guide to mortgage types
With so many types of mortgages, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you pick the best option.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Car Insurance
How to save money on your car insurance
While there’s no way to avoid car insurance payments, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to cut the cost. Read on for our top tips.
Article written by Jimmy Coultas
6 min read
- Category: Remortgage
Is remortgaging the right choice for you?
If you’re considering remortgaging your property, Ocean has created this guide to help you check your eligibility and review your finance options.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
5 min read
- Category: Remortgage
A step-by-step guide to the remortgage process
If you’re interested in learning the ins and outs of remortgaging, our step-by-step guide to the process will give you all the information you need.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
6 min read
- Category: Mortgage
How to save for a mortgage deposit
Saving up for a property deposit can sometimes feel unachievable, but if you follow our saving tips - you can lay out a plan to help you reach your goal amount.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
How does a secured loan affect my credit score?
Do you need to borrow but feel worried about the impact on your credit score? Find out how a secured loan can affect your credit score here.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Remortgage
Can I remortgage if I have a secured loan?
If you’re looking to remortgage but currently have a secured loan, our guide will give you the rundown on how this can affect an application.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Loan
Can you extend a loan?
Need more time to pay your loan? Find out how to apply for a loan extension and benefits and disadvantages you need to consider first.
Article written by Jimmy Coultas
3 min read
- Category: Homeowner Loan
Will a homeowner loan affect my mortgage offer?
Find out how taking out a homeowner loan can affect the rates you’ll receive on a new or additional mortgage with our guide.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
What lending criteria are applied to secured loans?
What exactly do lenders look for when you apply for a secured loan? Find out the criteria here in this simple guide from Ocean Finance.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
6 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
Can you get a secured loan on a joint mortgage?
Can you get a secured loan on a joint mortgage? Our guide explains requirements, pros, cons, and what to consider before applying.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
5 min read
- Category: Mortgage
Understanding mortgage fees and charges
Mortgages can seem daunting with so many different fees to consider. We have put together a guide to help you understand the most important charges.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Car Finance
How do I apply for car finance?
If you’re considering applying for car finance and are unsure about the process, this guide will help you through the key steps.
Article written by Sarah Neate
5 min read
- Category: Car Finance
Can I get car finance with bad credit?
Car finance isn’t off the table if your credit score is going through a rough patch, but there are some considerations to keep in mind.
Article written by Sarah Neate
5 min read
- Category: Remortgage
What remortgage options are available with bad credit?
Struggling with a bad credit score? Here is our guidance on what options are available to those people with bad credit looking to remortgage their property.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Car Finance
What is PCP car finance?
Our guide will define PCP (personal contract purchase), break down exactly how it works, and give you the information you need to help you decide whether it could be a suitable finance option for you.
Article written by Verity Hogan
5 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
Can you get a loan with a CCJ?
Having a CCJ can seriously impact your chances of getting a loan, however it’s not impossible. We talk you through how a CCJ can affect your ability to borrow.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Personal Loan
Can you get a loan if you’re self-employed?
When you work for yourself, it can affect your ability to get accepted for some forms of credit. We've put together a handy guide to show you what lenders look for.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
4 min read
- Category: Car Finance
What happens if I fall behind on car finance payments?
If you think you might struggle to make a car finance payment, our guide will help guide you towards support and available solutions.
Article written by Adele Kitchen
7 min read
- Category: Secured Loan
Advantages and disadvantages of secured loans
If you’re a homeowner, you can borrow money against your property. Find out the advantages and disadvantages of secured loans here to see if it’s right for you.
Article written by Zubin Kavarana
4 min read
