Smarterbuys

Smarterbuys is a charity that is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They aim to offer an alternative to expensive, high interest stores for essential home items, such as white goods, household appliances and furniture. You need a bank account or credit union account to use this service. Smarterbuys work with a number of housing providers and social landlords.

Using this service involves taking out a loan which you pay back across a number of months. You are charged interest, so you pay more for the product. Before buying a new item on credit, you may be able to find it cheaper second hand, or apply for grants to help. Read more on InformationNOW about affordable credit options