What is a top-up loan?

A top-up loan is a way to access extra cash by borrowing more money. With Post Office loans powered by Lendable, you don’t borrow more on your existing loan. Instead, you apply for a second loan. 

This second loan will have its own interest rate and separate repayments. Keeping both loans open is often a strategic choice for borrowers who want to preserve a low interest rate on their first loan while still accessing new cash. It also means you only pay a loan fee on the extra you’re borrowing, rather than your entire new balance. 

You also have the option to close your existing loan and open a new one that covers both your old balance and the extra cash you need. This is sometimes called ‘contra-settling.’ It leaves you with just one monthly repayment and one interest rate. The new APR you get will apply to the overall amount, which can be good if you get a lower rate but that’s not guaranteed. 

Who might a top-up loan suit?

Top-up loans are for people who need a little extra cash but already have an existing personal loan.  

You might need more funds to help with a house project that’s gone over budget or grown in scope. Perhaps you have an unexpected bill or urgent home repairs.

It could be for a new car, returning to study or a big family event like a wedding or milestone birthday. You might also want to use it to consolidate other debts, such as credit cards.

If you need access to more borrowing, a top-up loan could help.

Why choose a Post Office top-up loan?  

We’re a trusted UK brand, working with Lendable to offer fair, transparent loans.

  • Flexible amounts and terms: Borrow £1,000–£25,000 and pay it back over 1–5 years.

  • Easy to apply: Our application process is quick and straightforward.

  • Get the money instantly: If approved, you should get the funds the same day.

  • Manage your loan online: Check your account and payments seamlessly.

  • Repay loan earlier: Flexibility to pay off loan in full sooner. This could save you money on interest compared with paying it off over the full term.

How our top-up loans work

Applying for a Post Office top-up loan and putting it to work is easy.

  1. 1

    Check your eligibility instantly

    Find out if you’re likely to be approved with a simple check without affecting your credit score

  2. 2

    Apply in minutes online

    Choose your loan amount and term. Then complete an online form for a quick decision

  3. 3

    Get your money quickly

    If approved, your account should receive the funds fast, usually the same day

Is a top-up loan right for you? 

Before taking out a loan, it’s important to check if it’s right for you. Here are a few key things to keep in mind.

  • Compare your options: Weigh up the pros and cons of taking out a top-up loan compared with other options like credit cards, overdrafts, finance options and saving up the money you need. Remember loans generally suit large single purchases

  • Factor in affordability: Make sure you can make the repayments on your top-up loan and any other loan you still may have open. Missing repayments can harm your credit score

  • Check the full cost of borrowing: A top-up loan means extra interest overall so it’s important to have a full picture before you decide

  • Check for early repayment fees: If you're consolidating other debts, find out if there are any early repayment fees. Some lenders may charge you extra for repaying your loan off earlier

  • You might pay more overall: If you take out a longer-term loan, you might end up paying more money in interest, even with smaller monthly payments

  • Consider your credit score: Lenders check your credit report and previous borrowing history to decide if they’ll lend to you. You might want to avoid applying if you’re planning a major application like a mortgage

Common questions about top-up loans 

  • With Post Office Personal Loans provided by Lendable, you take out a new loan. You can choose to do one of the following options: 

    • You can keep both loans open. You’ll have two separate loans with two different monthly repayments, though you can arrange to pay them on the same day for ease. The benefit here is you don’t have to calculate or pay any fees, charges or early repayment interest rebates on the original loan. The new APR you get will apply to the new amount only, which is beneficial if you get a higher rate, but you may get a lower one instead.
    • You can close your existing loan and combine the balance with your new top-up loan. You’ll have one loan to pay with one monthly repayment. 
  • Yes, you can choose to combine your loans. To do this, your top-up loan would need to be large enough to cover both your remaining balance and the extra money you need. You then use your new loan to pay off and close your existing account. But, while you’d have the relative ease of a single payment to manage, consider the following before deciding if this is the right option for you:

    • The loan fee would apply to your entire new balance, rather than just the extra you’re borrowing.
    • When early paying a loan, you should check all the costs of early settling your old loan, including fees charged and any owed interest that’s not rebated to you in your settlement figure.
    • The new APR you get will apply to the overall amount, which is beneficial if you get a lower rate, but remember that isn’t guaranteed.
    • Taking out a larger loan (to cover the cost of your original loan) could potentially impact your likelihood of approval.
  • Checking your eligibility for a loan just involves a soft check that won’t impact your credit score. But we’ll run a hard credit search if you go on to complete the full application and accept the loan agreement. A hard credit search may impact your score and ability to obtain credit in the future. Missing repayments can harm your credit score so make sure you make them on time.

  • If your application is approved, you’ll usually get the funds the same day of applying for the loan. It could be within a few minutes.

  • Read more FAQs
  • Yes, you can repay your loan early in your online account. When you settle, you’ll pay the outstanding balance plus any interest due up to the day you repay. This could save you money on interest compared with paying it off over the full term. 

  • If you miss a payment or are struggling, contact us as soon as possible. We’ll work with you to find a solution. 

    Get help with money worries

  • Secured loans are linked to something valuable you own, like your house or car. Unsecured loans aren’t connected to your property or any asset you own. All Post Office Personal Loans are unsecured loans. 

    Read more about the difference between secured and unsecured loans 

  • Personal loans aren’t the only option to fund whatever goal or project you have. Depending on your needs, you could consider: 

    Each option has advantages and disadvantages. If you’re unsure which is right for you, get some financial advice before you decide. Remember to compare the total cost before you commit.

Need some help?

Personal loans help and support

Find out the answers to common personal loans questions and how to reach us or make a complaint: 

Visit our personal loans support page