Boost Loans
Personal Loan · 1687 reviews
#13
Rank
7.0/10
Our Score
How we rate
Each lender is scored out of 10 across five weighted factors: customer reviews (35%), loan terms & cost (25%), transparency (15%), NCR registration (15%), and customer support (10%). We are independent and never accept payment for higher rankings. Read full methodology →
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We believe every South African should be able to make borrowing decisions with confidence. While we don't cover every credit provider in South Africa, we work hard to feature a wide range of NCR-registered lenders and provide objective editorial comparisons you can trust.
Affiliate compensation is one of several factors that may affect which products we highlight or where partner lenders appear within promotional placements. Other factors include loan availability, NCR registration status, customer review volume, and the editorial relevance of a lender to a specific guide or comparison page.
However, these factors do not influence our editors' opinions or our scores. Every rating is calculated using the same independent methodology applied to every lender, partner or not. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favourable reviews, hide negative customer feedback, or alter their score. If a partner performs poorly on customer reviews or NCR compliance, their rating reflects that.
Loan Conditions
Amount
R500 – R8 000
Term
1 month – 1 year
Interest Rate
from 0.07% per day
First Loan Free
No
Minimal Age
18+
Boost Loans Loan Calculator
Monthly Payment
R1 143
Total Repayment
R8 002
Total Interest
R2
Estimate for Boost Loans. Actual amounts may differ based on fees and your credit profile.
Top Loans from Our Experts
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- ✓ Interest rate of 24.5% per annum is competitive for the short-term loan category
- ✓ Flexible repayment terms from 30 to 365 days give you breathing room
- ✓ Fully online application, no branch visits required
- ✓ 585 customer reviews collected, giving a reasonable sample of real experience
- ✓ Loan amounts start as low as R500, useful for smaller emergencies
Disadvantages
- ✗ No first loan free offer, unlike some competitors in this space
- ✗ Maximum loan amount of R8,000 is relatively low if you need more significant help
- ✗ Trust score of 6.5 out of 10 based on customer reviews we collected suggests mixed experiences
- ✗ Ranked 10th out of 37, so there are lenders we rate more highly
About Boost Loans
If you need a few thousand rand to bridge a gap before payday, Boost Loans is one option you'll come across. They offer short-term personal loans from R500 up to R8,000, with repayment terms that stretch from 30 days all the way to 365 days. That flexibility on the term side is genuinely useful, because not everyone can clear a loan in a single month.
The interest rate sits at 24.5% per annum. For the short-term lending space in South Africa, that's actually on the lower end. It won't feel free, but it won't destroy you either, as long as you borrow only what you can realistically repay.
We scored Boost Loans 7.0 out of 10, placing them at number 10 out of 37 lenders we've reviewed. Decent, not exceptional. Worth considering if the amount and terms suit your situation, but not the automatic first choice.
How Does Boost Loans Work?
1. Apply online at boostloans.co.za by filling in your personal and financial details. The form takes about 10 minutes if you have your documents ready.
2. Boost Loans runs a credit and affordability check. This is a legal requirement under the National Credit Act and they cannot skip it.
3. If approved, you'll receive a loan agreement to review and sign electronically. Read it before you sign.
4. Once signed, funds are typically transferred to your bank account within 24 to 48 hours on business days.
5. Repayments are collected via debit order on your agreed due date, either monthly or as a lump sum depending on your term.
How to Apply for a Boost Loans Loan
Visit the Boost Loans website at https://boostloans.co.za and click on the apply button to start your application.
Complete the online application form with your personal details, including your full name, South African ID number, contact information, and residential address.
Enter your employment and income details, including your employer name, salary amount, and the date your salary is paid each month.
Upload the required supporting documents, which typically include a copy of your ID, your latest payslip, and a recent bank statement showing three months of transactions.
Submit your application and wait for a response from the Boost Loans team, who will review your information and assess your affordability.
If approved, review and accept your loan agreement, making sure you understand the repayment terms and total cost of credit.
Once you have accepted the agreement, the loan amount will be transferred directly into your bank account, often on the same day.
Processing Time & Payout
Boost Loans is known for its fast turnaround, with many applicants receiving a response within minutes of submitting their application. Funds are typically paid out on the same day once your application is approved and all required documents have been verified. For the smoothest experience, apply during business hours and ensure your documents are ready to upload.
Fees & Charges
Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older with a valid South African ID
- Proof of a regular income, employed or self-employed
- Latest 3 months of bank statements showing salary or income deposits
- A South African bank account in your own name
- A working South African cellphone number and email address
- Proof of residential address not older than 3 months
Who Is Boost Loans Best For?
Boost Loans suits someone with a steady income who needs a small cash injection fast and can't wait for a traditional bank loan. Think a salaried employee facing an unexpected expense like a car repair or medical bill. It's not designed for someone already heavily indebted or looking for large amounts. If you need more than R8,000, you'll need to look elsewhere.
Is Boost Loans Safe & Legit?
Boost Loans operates as a registered credit provider under the National Credit Act, which means they are regulated by the National Credit Regulator. The NCA gives you rights as a borrower, including the right to a pre-agreement statement, the right to dispute incorrect credit bureau information, and the right to apply for debt counselling if you're over-indebted. Always verify any lender's NCR registration number on the NCR website before you hand over personal information.
Registered Credit Provider (NCR)
Where to Find Boost Loans
Boost Loans operates entirely online, meaning you can apply from anywhere in South Africa without needing to visit a physical branch. All communication and document submissions are handled digitally, and you can reach their team by emailing applications@boostloans.co.za.
Our Full Review
Let's talk numbers first, because that's what matters. Boost Loans charges 24.5% per annum on their loans. On a loan of R5,000 over 30 days, that works out to interest of roughly R100 for the month, so you'd repay about R5,100 before any initiation fee or monthly service fee is added. Those additional fees are regulated by the NCA, so they can't charge whatever they like, but you should always read your loan agreement carefully and add up the total cost before you sign.
Over a longer term the picture changes. Take that same R5,000 over 12 months at 24.5% per annum and your total interest alone comes to around R1,225. Still manageable compared to lenders charging rates two or three times higher, but it adds up. The honest truth is that any short-term borrowing costs money. The question is whether Boost Loans charges a fair price for that cost. And by the standards of this market, they do.
So what do customers actually say? Based on the 585 reviews we collected, the picture is mixed enough to produce a trust score of 6.5 out of 10. That's not a disaster, but it's not a ringing endorsement either. Common themes tend to involve application experience and communication during the approval process, which is fairly typical of online lenders in this category.
The application itself is straightforward. Online, no paperwork to post, no queuing. Payout reportedly comes through within 24 to 48 business hours once approved, which is reasonable but not the fastest in the market.
Where Boost Loans loses ground is on a few fronts. No first loan free offer means you start paying from day one. The R8,000 ceiling won't cover everyone's needs. And finishing 10th out of 37 lenders we reviewed tells you there are better options if you have time to compare properly.
Our verdict: Boost Loans is a legitimate, reasonably priced short-term lender with a competitive rate. Not our top pick, but not one to dismiss either. If the loan amount fits and you've compared costs, it's a reasonable choice.
User Reviews (1687)
Average rating: 4.6/5
It was safe and easy...
It was safe and easy even if you apply it was easy and safe ☺️
Best service is what...
Best service is what they offer, so if you want loans don't hesitate to DM them
Boost loans 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾 came through when I needed it most
Boost loans 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾 came through when I needed it most. Fast response, clear communication, and no complications. I’d definitely use them again and again.
I would like to writ...
I would like to write a review about Budget Insurance
Wen I lost my grandf...
Wen I lost my grandfather I needed cash to travel back to Limpopo and they were able to assist me in a day and the assessment was quick
I app**** within 5 m...
I app**** within 5 minutes they reply and funds are quick
Supper fast and info...
Supper fast and information secured, lovely staff engagement also quick response to emails
The experience has b...
The experience has been amazing, this is the second time I’m taking a loan and their service is quick
Their loan is fast a...
Their loan is fast and easy They have friendly people to assist and the money doesn't take time to be in your account
I would like to comm...
I would like to commend Nomthandazo and Nomvuselelo their service is exceptional 👌
The application was quick and easy
The application was quick and easy. I did not have to go through something like an exam...I will recommend Boost loan to my family.
I'm struggling to ge...
I'm struggling to get get the loan I've app**** for since Friday
Super
Super. They are absolutely great. Super easy app and very helpful
Customer service was...
Customer service was super professional and friendly, application process was safe and fast
The process was fast...
The process was fast , easy and convenient for any emergencies they are the best
When I app****, I th...
When I app****, I thought I was gonna get the money the following day, but instead I got it same day, so they are quick and efficient
They are Fast, relia...
They are Fast, reliable, trustworthy, professional was an great experience
Their service is the...
Their service is the best and straightforward i got the best service ever
They are an excellen...
They are an excellent company I'm happy with their service 👏🏼👏🏼
Welcoming me was the...
Welcoming me was the best thing and assisting me on time without hesitation
Showing 20 of 1687 reviews
Contact Boost Loans
Apply for Boost Loans up to R8000. Boost Loans provides personal loans and makes it easy for you to apply online at the comfort of your home or office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I borrow from Boost Loans?
You can borrow between R500 and R8,000. The exact amount you're offered will depend on your income, credit profile, and affordability assessment. Don't assume you'll automatically qualify for the maximum.
What interest rate does Boost Loans charge?
Boost Loans charges 24.5% per annum. For short-term lending in South Africa, that's actually on the lower side. Many lenders in this category charge significantly more, so this rate compares well, though you should always factor in initiation and service fees when calculating your total repayment.
How fast does Boost Loans pay out?
Based on what we've seen and reviewed, payout typically happens within 24 to 48 business hours after your loan agreement is signed. Weekends and public holidays will push that out, so apply early in the week if timing matters.
Is Boost Loans registered with the NCR?
Boost Loans operates as a registered credit provider under the National Credit Act. You can verify any lender's registration directly on the NCR's website. Always do this before sharing your personal or banking details with any lender online.
Can I get a Boost Loans loan with bad credit?
It's possible, but not guaranteed. Boost Loans, like all NCR-registered lenders, is legally required to run an affordability and credit check. A poor credit record reduces your chances, and if you're approved, your loan amount might be lower than you applied for. It's worth applying, but go in with realistic expectations.
What documents do I need?
You'll need your South African ID, your 3 most recent bank statements, proof of income, and proof of residential address not older than 3 months. Have these ready before you start the application to avoid delays.
How do I contact Boost Loans?
You can get in touch with Boost Loans by sending an email to applications@boostloans.co.za. Their team is known for responding quickly, so you can expect to hear back in a timely manner after submitting your query or application.
Can I apply for a Boost Loan if I am employed or self-employed?
Boost Loans considers applications from both formally employed and self-employed individuals, provided you can demonstrate a regular income. You will need to supply relevant proof of income, such as payslips or bank statements, so the lender can assess your affordability as required by the National Credit Act.
What loan amounts and repayment terms does Boost Loans offer?
Boost Loans offers personal loans ranging from R500 up to R8,000, with flexible repayment terms between 30 and 365 days. This range makes it suitable for both small, urgent cash needs and slightly larger short-term financial requirements.
Is my personal information safe when I apply with Boost Loans?
Boost Loans uses a secure online application process to protect your personal and financial information. Applicants have noted that the process feels safe and trustworthy, and as an NCR-registered credit provider, the company is required to handle your data responsibly in line with South African consumer protection regulations.
Can I take out a second loan with Boost Loans after repaying my first one?
Yes, returning customers are welcome to apply for a new loan with Boost Loans once their previous loan has been settled. Several customers have noted positive experiences when borrowing more than once, with the process remaining equally smooth and straightforward on subsequent applications.