Safe Alternatives to Money Shop Loans: Your Guide to Stress-Free Borrowing

- If Money Shop won’t lend to you, Payday Loans Online is a fast alternative with easy-to-qualify short-term loans from $300 to $1,500.
- Payday Loans Online offers direct lending with no middlemen for fast, transparent loans.
- Unlike Money Shop, Payday Loans Online guarantees clear terms, quick approval, and funding within the hour.
- For a safe borrowing experience, choose a direct lender like Payday Loans Online for fast, FCA-regulated loans.
If you’re facing a sudden expense, such as a boiler breakdown, car trouble, or a vet bill, you need help that’s simple, fair, and fast. If you’ve come across the Money Shop but aren’t sure where they stand today, you’re not alone. It’s confusing when trusted names change or disappear. Let’s look at what’s happened, what your choices are, and why Payday Loans Online could be the answer for your emergency.
Why You Might Need an Alternative to Money Shop
Money Shop used to be a household name, with high street stores, pawnbroking, and loans for anyone in a pinch. However, big changes hit the payday loan world. After heavy fines, stricter FCA regulation, and a flood of customer complaints, the original Money Shop closed its doors in June 2019. Many of its shops were sold off.
Today, the Money Shop “brand” is back online, but it’s just a name, now operated by New Horizons Finance Limited as a credit broker, not a direct lender. This means that if you apply, you’re handed off to third-party lenders. You never know who you’ll end up borrowing from or what the terms might be.
If you want certainty, speed, and direct answers, you need a lender who deals with you, no middlemen.
TIP: I always tell borrowers, make sure you know exactly who you’re dealing with before you agree to any loan. If you are passed around between brokers and lenders, you can lose track of important details about your loan.
Who We Are and Why You Can Trust Us
- FCA regulated: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your safety is our top priority.
- Direct lender: We process, approve, and fund your loan ourselves. No brokers, no passing your details on, no confusion.
- Transparent and ethical: Every cost is shown up front. Repay early? Save on interest, with no hidden fees.
- Clear terms: Borrow £300 to £1,000, for 3 to 6 months. That’s it, no long-term debt traps.
- Easy online process: Apply and manage your loan 24/7, from anywhere.
- Supportive service: Got questions or a problem? Speak directly to our team, not a call centre abroad.
TIP: From my years in lending, I’ve seen that people who ask questions and make sure they understand every fee and term are much less likely to run into trouble later.
Compare Application, Speed, Cost, and Eligibility
Feature | Money Shop (New Horizons) | Payday Loans Online |
---|---|---|
Lender or broker | Broker (finds lenders) | Direct lender (we fund you) |
Loan amount | £50–£5,000 | £300–£1,000 |
Loan term | 3–36 months | 3–6 months |
Application | Online, then brokered | Online, direct |
Decision time | Can be delayed by brokers | Instant decision |
Funding speed | Varies (depends on lender) | Usually within 1 hour |
Customer reviews | 1.6/5 Trustpilot | 4/5 Trustpilot |
Transparency | Varies, multiple lenders | Always clear |
Support | Goes via the lender | Speak to us directly |
How to Apply
- Visit our website.
- Fill out your details in just a few minutes.
- Get an instant decision with no waiting or confusion.
- Funds will be in your account fast, often within the hour if approved.
No third parties. No runaround. Just simple, honest help.
Responsible Borrowing Tips
- Only borrow what you really need, and never for long-term fixes.
- Know your total repayment before you sign up.
- Repay early if you can to save money and finish debt-free sooner.
- If things get hard, reach out early. Our team will work with you, not against you.
- For extra support, try Citizens Advice or Money Helper for free, confidential help.
Where This Leaves You and Your Choices
The lending world is changing fast. Brands you once knew, like Money Shop, may not be what they seem. You deserve honesty, direct answers, and support that puts you first. With Payday Loans Online, you get fair, FCA-regulated lending with no middlemen or surprises.
- Want a loan where you deal directly with your lender?
- Prefer a fast, clear decision and same-day cash?
- Need a team that’s here for you before, during and after your loan?
If yes, start your application today or call us for advice first. We’re here to help every step of the way.
FAQ: Application & Approval
- Who can apply if I used Money Shop before?
Anyone aged 18+, a UK resident, with a regular income and a bank account can apply. Bad credit is considered, life happens to all of us. - What do I need to apply?
Proof of income, bank details, and your address. No hidden hurdles. - How fast is the decision?
Almost instantly. You’ll know in minutes if you’re approved. - What if I’m declined?
We’ll tell you why, and you can always ask for free advice or try again later. - When do I get my money?
For approved loans, money is usually sent within the hour.
TIP: I’ve found that gathering all your documents, like proof of income and your bank details, before you apply will make the whole process much smoother and reduce your stress.
Kelly Richards is a UK finance writer with over 18 years of experience in personal credit. She founded the Cashfloat blog and now leads content at Payday Loans Online, where she focuses on helping readers make informed, confident borrowing decisions. Kelly holds a finance degree from the London School of Business and Finance.