Employment’s Effect on Auto Loans

Determining the particulars of auto loans can be difficult, especially for first-time buyers. Each auto loan varies based on the lender, term, and current interest rates. Buyers have several different borrowing options, the most common of which are banks and dealerships. Both offer competitive rates and options for auto loans.

Employment History

Since each lender makes its own policies, it is up to your individual lender to determine their employment criteria. In most cases, as long as you have an income, you will be able to get a loan. If you have a stable history of employment, you will be able to get better rates because you are considered more reliable as a borrower. When you research rates, companies may only display the rates available to the best customers (i.e., those with good credit, a steady income, etc.). Make sure that you contact each lender so you can see how rates vary based on employment history.

You may wonder what employment history has to do with getting a loan. What it comes down to is how safe your lender feels in loaning you money. Remember, the lender is putting a lot at risk. If you have a full-time job and a steady income, you are much less of a risk for default than someone who does not have either. How long you’ve been with your current employer doesn’t matter as much as your demonstrated ability to earn a steady income and your prospects for the future. If you have only been employed for a few months but are in a stable, long-term job, you should not have much problem getting an auto loan.

Employee Discount

If you have a solid employment history, it will help you with your loan. A source of stable income means that you are less of a risk to lend to, which translates into lower interest rates and monthly payments. Not only can a stable full-time job help you bring in income, but it can also help you save on your loan’s interest costs. However, if you have bad credit, even the most impeccable employment record will not be enough to get you a loan. Steady employment will help your chances, but the number-one determinant of approval is still your credit rating.