12+ Bad Credit Loans in Nova Scotia

These lenders provide fast approval and funding for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit.

A credit score under 560 can affect your ability to get approved for a loan from traditional lenders like banks and credit unions. But while your choices may be more limited, you still have options, especially among alternative lenders.

Below are legitimate loans for individuals with bad credit in Nova Scotia, allowing you to receive fast approval and funding.

Compare installment loans for bad credit in Nova Scotia

3 of 13 results
Finder Score APR Range Loan Amount Loan Term Broker Compliance Key Features
Finder score
9.99% - 34.95%
$300 - $35,000
6 - 84 months
Key features: Same-day funding, fast application
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Finder score
8.99% - 35.00%
$500 - $2,500
3 - 6 months
Note: LoanConnect is a loan search platform with access to multiple lenders. Applicants will be matched with a suitable lender based on credit history and borrowing requirements.
Key features: Loan search platform, pre-approval in 5 minutes
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Finder score
8.99% - 35.00%
$500 - $50,000
4 - 60 months
Note: Loans Canada is a loan search platform. Apply once to get matched with lenders based on your credit and borrowing requirements.
Key features: Loan search platform, largest lender network
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Finder Score for personal loans

To make comparing even easier, we came up with the Finder Score. Interest rates, fees and features across 40+ personal loans are all weighted and scaled to produce a score out of 10. The higher the score the better the loan—simple.

Read the full methodology

Compare no credit check cash advance apps in Nova Scotia

3 of 3 results
Finder Score Costs Loan Amount Loan Term Rebate Key Features
Koho logo
Finder score
Finder score
0% + monthly fee from $2
$20 - $250
Flexible
Key features: Instant, no credit check or income required
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Bree logo
Finder score
Finder score
0%
$20 - $500
Next pay cycle
Key features: Instant e-transfers, 24/7, no credit check
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Nyble logo
Finder score
Finder score
0%
$30 - $250
31 days, extendable
Use code CFIND1J to get 500 extra points and a $5 higher approval. T&Cs apply.
Key features: Instant e-transfers, 24/7, no credit check
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Finder Score for cash advance apps

To make comparing even easier, we came up with the Finder Score. Interest rates, fees and features across 5+ cash advance apps are all weighted and scaled to produce a score out of 10. The higher the score the better the loan—simple.

Read the full methodology

⚠️ Warning: Be cautious with payday loans
High-cost payday loans are unsustainable for long-term borrowing, with up to $14 charged per $100 borrowed. If you're experiencing financial hardship, consider calling Credit Counselling Canada for free financial counselling (Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm at +1 866-398-5999). You may also want to consider payday loan alternatives.

Compare payday loans for bad credit in Nova Scotia

3 of 9 results
Cost Loan Amount Loan Term Serviced Provinces Key Features
iCash logo
$14 per $100 borrowed
$100 - $1,500
7 - 62 days
AB, BC, MB, NB, NS, ON, PEI
Key features: 24/7 instant approval and e-Transfer, accepts bad credit
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Money Mart logo
$14 per $100 borrowed
$100 - $1,500
1 - 62 days
AB, BC, NS, ON, SK and MB
Key features: In-store and online no credit check loans, accepts many income types
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GoDay logo
$14 per $100 borrowed
$100 - $1,500
Up to 62 days
AB, BC, MB, NB, NS, ON, PEI, SK
Key features: Instant approval, accepts bad credit
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How do bad credit loans work?

Bad credit loans provide you with a sum of money that you can use for whatever you’d like, such as emergency expenses, debt consolidation, large purchases and bill payments. Depending on the type of loan, you either pay back the money through strictly scheduled payments, flexible payments, or one payment on your payday.

Lenders in Nova Scotia will typically look at your credit score and your debt-to-income ratio before they approve you for a bad credit loan. You’re more likely to qualify if you’re permanently employed and have a credit score closer to 600.

Types of bad credit loans in Nova Scotia

Which loan should I choose?

The right loan depends on your needs. If you require amounts over a few hundred, it might make sense to apply for a personal loan. If you need just a small amount of money, consider cash advance apps.

It’s generally best to avoid payday loans. They’re risky because the full amount is due by your next payday. If you can’t cover your regular expenses afterward, you may end up needing another payday loan.

Tips to increase your odds of approval if you have poor credit

  • Apply to a loan search platform. If you need a personal loan, applying to a loan search platform like Loans Canada or LoanConnect may help. You fill out just one application and get matched with suitable offers.
  • No NSF transactions. Records of insufficient funds in the last 90 days will affect your application.
  • Show positive cash flow. If you can demonstrate to the lender that you’re earning more than you’re spending, you have a better chance of approval.

What should I keep in mind before getting a bad credit loan?

Before you apply for a loan with bad credit, consider the following to make sure you get the best deal possible:

  • Look for low interest rates. Compare lenders’ APRs to find the lowest rates. APR is the total cost of borrowing over a year. Learn more about personal loan rates in Canada.
  • Aim for a shorter term. Since your interest rates will be higher, it makes sense to negotiate a shorter term if your budget allows for it.
  • Budget for repayments. Look for a loan with flexible terms and find out what will happen if you default on your loan, especially if it’s secured with collateral.
  • Make sure you qualify. Every credit check on your account will bring your credit score down even further, so only apply for loans you know you’ll qualify for.
  • Read the fine print. Some lenders will bury hidden fees and charges in your contract. Make sure to read the fine print thoroughly, and avoid lenders that are not transparent.

How do I apply?

If you’re applying for a bad credit loan in Nova Scotia, you’ll need to follow the steps below:

  1. Fill out an application. You’ll need to apply online, in person or over the phone and provide personal information such as your address and contact info.
  2. Verify your identity. Lenders will ask you to verify your identity by providing a government-issued piece of ID, like your driver’s licence or passport.
  3. Show proof of income. You may be asked for proof of income in the form of pay stubs, tax returns or bank statements.

How can I improve my credit?

  • Make payments on time. Your payment history accounts for roughly 35% of your credit score, so it’s important to be consistent.
  • Limit your spending. Avoid spending money on your credit cards that you can’t pay back by the due date.
  • Mix up your credit types. Make on-time payments on a variety of debts, including credit cards, mortgages, loans and leases.
  • Negotiate new terms for your debt. Ask your lender about extending your contract or adjusting repayment amounts if you’re having trouble meeting your current terms.
  • Consolidate your debts. This can make it easier to make payments on time, since you’ll only need to manage one payment on a larger debt. Learn more about debt consolidation loans.

Other options available for people struggling with bad credit

  • Government subsidies. You may be able to qualify for provincial funding through income assistance, affordable housing or disability support programs.
  • Credit counselling services. Services like Service Nova Scotia’s Debt Assistance Program may be able to help you consolidate your debts and figure out a budget.
  • Debt relief services. If you’re finding yourself in a vicious cycle of debt, a debt relief company is an option.
  • Borrowing from friends or family. If you’re struggling with bad credit, you might like to ask friends or family for a more flexible, interest-free loan.
  • Getting a cosigner. You can usually qualify for lower interest rates if someone with good credit guarantees your loan.

Bottom line

If you have bad credit, you may still be able to qualify for a loan with higher interest rates. Find out if this type of loan is the right fit for you, learn what to watch out for and compare lenders in Nova Scotia to find the right loan for you.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Leanne Escobal's headshot
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Publisher

Leanne Escobal is a publisher at Finder with more than 12 years of experience in financial products and services, with a focus on content strategy and marketing. She has completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) as well as the Personal Lending and Mortgages course through the Canadian Securities Institute. Leanne holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English literature and creative writing from Western University. See full bio

Leanne's expertise
Leanne has written 175 Finder guides across topics including:
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Associate editor

Claire Horwood was a writer at Finder, specializing in credit cards, loans and other financial products. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies from the University of Victoria, and an Associate’s Degree in Science from Camosun College. Much of Claire’s coursework has focused on writing and statistics, with a healthy dose of social and cultural analysis mixed in for good measure. In her spare time, Claire enjoys rock climbing, travelling and drinking inordinate amounts of coffee. See full bio

Claire's expertise
Claire has written 360 Finder guides across topics including:
  • Banking
  • Personal Loans
  • Car Loans
  • Business Loans
  • Credit Cards

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