Moving On From Likely Loans: How to Choose Your Next Lender

You might be searching for help fast and feeling unsure about what to do next. If Likely Loans isn’t right for you any more, that’s okay. You deserve safe, supportive, and flexible options. They’re out there. Let’s explore a better path forward together.

Why You Might Need an Alternative to Likely Loans

You may remember Likely Loans, a product launched in 2014 by Oakbrook Finance to help people with less-than-perfect credit. It was wholly digital: apply, top up, repay all online. But its minimum loan size of £500 isn’t always ideal if you need a quick boost under £500 for just a few months. It can feel like overkill in those moments.

If you need something smaller, faster, and more tailored, you deserve a lender who meets your needs. Not a one-size-fits-all solution.

When and Why Likely Loans Changed

Here’s what happened:

In September 2022, Likely Loans rebranded to Finio Loans and stopped accepting new applications under the old name.

Existing customers weren’t affected. They continue to be serviced under the same terms.

Finio Loans remains a trading style of Oakbrook Finance Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

So, if you were hoping to take out a new loan from Likely Loans today, you can’t. But there are more suitable, modern alternatives.

Who We Are and Why You Can Trust Us

At Payday Loans Online, we take a different approach.

• FCA‑approved: We’re regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. You’re protected if things go wrong.
• Tailored loans: Borrow exactly what you need, from £100 to £500. It’s perfect for emergencies.
• No hidden fees: What you see is what you pay. No surprises.
• Help for all credit types: We review affordability, not just credit scores. You’re more than a number.

This isn’t about pushing loans. It’s about offering honest help when you need it most.

TIP: I always recommend you check the lender’s regulatory status first. Being FCA-approved means you have a real safeguard if something goes wrong. Never borrow from companies without clear FCA authorization.

Compare Application, Speed, Cost, and Eligibility

Feature	Likely Loans / Finio Loans	Payday Loans Online
Loan size	£500–£5,000	£100–£500
Term length	12–36 months	3–6 months
Application	Fully online	Fully online
Decision time	Same or next day	Instant, delivered within minutes.
Funds received	Usually next day	Within an hour (if approved)
Loan type	Unsecured (no collateral)	Unsecured (no collateral)
Fees transparency	Clear APR, but may have roll-overs	Always clear with no rollovers or hidden fees.
Credit checks	Both soft and hard checks may be used, which can affect your credit score.	We’re open to everyone and focused on affordability.

How to Apply with Us

• Visit our site and begin your application.
• Share your income and outgoings so we can help responsibly.
• Get an instant yes or no. No waiting, no uncertainty.
• If approved, funds arrive within the hour.
• No paperwork, no hidden costs. Just help when you need it.

TIP: When applying, be honest about your income and expenses. I’ve seen many people get into trouble by borrowing more than they can realistically repay. Responsible borrowing means only taking what you truly need and can afford.

Responsible Borrowing Tips

• Only borrow what you need, not what you’re offered.
• Know your repayment date and plan ahead.
• Use reminders or direct debit to avoid missing payments.
• Act early if you’re struggling. We won’t escalate your debt unfairly.
• Free advice is here: reach out to Citizens Advice or Money Helper if needed.

TIP: I urge you to set up payment reminders or use direct debit to ensure you never miss a repayment. Missing payments can damage your credit and lead to extra charges, so planning ahead is key.

What You Could Try Instead

If Finio Loans sounds too large or slow (500+ loan, 1-3 year term), consider these safe options:

• Payday Loans Online is ideal for quick £100 to £500 loans with fast turnaround.
• Finio Loans is a good option if you need between £500 and £5,000 with 12 to 36 month terms and can wait up to a day.
• OakbrookOne is Oakbrook’s latest debt-consolidation loan, launched on June 19, 2025, in partnership with Experian. It offers smart, fair refinancing, especially for those with multiple debts.

Each of these is fully authorised by the FCA and offers transparent APRs, real affordability checks, and online applications.

Where This Leaves You…

If you need a smaller, quicker loan and Likely Loans or Finio Loans feels too big or slow, there’s a better route. Payday Loans Online offers tailored, transparent borrowing for short-term emergencies.

Ask yourself:

• Do I need a small amount fast and repay within a few months?
• Do I want instant approval and funds within the hour?
• Do I want zero hidden fees and full regulatory protection?

If you answered yes, you’re in exactly the right place.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You’ve got this. No shame, just clarity, control, and support.

Want to ask a question or need help applying? We’re here for you. Click Get Started or Talk to Us. The next step is yours.

You deserve a lender that fits you, supports you, and respects you. Let’s move forward together.

Application and Approval FAQs

Who can apply if I was with Likely Loans?

Anyone in the UK aged 18+ with a bank account and regular income. We also welcome those with less-than-perfect credit.

What are the basic requirements?

You must be 18+, resident in the UK, and show proof of income. We don’t ask for guarantors or collateral.

How fast is the decision?

Instant, within minutes. Funds arrive within the hour if approved.

What if my application is declined?

We’ll explain why. You can apply again later or try a smaller amount suited to your budget.

When would I get the money?

Usually within one hour of approval.