£300 is one of the smaller amounts you can apply for. Because short term credit can be costly relative to the amount, it is worth checking whether borrowing is the best move, and what it would actually cost.
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Is a £300 loan the right choice?
Borrowing a small amount can make sense for a genuine one off cost that cannot wait, such as an essential repair or a bill with a deadline. If you have a little time, though, a lower cost option may be within reach, so it is worth a quick think before you apply.
What a £300 loan costs
Small amounts are usually borrowed over a short term. The table shows a rough idea of the monthly cost and the total repayable at a representative 79.5% APR.
Why people borrow £300
In the first half of 2026, these were the most common reasons people came to us looking to borrow around £300, based on our own enquiry data.
Cheaper alternatives worth checking
Before taking a short term loan for a small amount, it is worth seeing whether one of these could cost you less:
- A credit union loan, which often charges lower rates
- An arranged overdraft with your bank for a short shortfall
- A salary advance scheme, if your employer offers one
- A Budgeting Advance from the DWP if you receive certain benefits
- Free, impartial guidance from MoneyHelper
How to apply
Representative Example: £1,000 borrowed for 18 months. 17 monthly repayments at £87.22, final repayment of £87.70. Total amount repayable £1,570.44. Interest total £570.44. Annual interest rate 59.97% (fixed). Representative APR 79.5% (Variable). Any representative monthly repayment shown is for illustration only, based on our representative APR. Your actual repayments will be confirmed by the matching lender if your application is approved.