References are one of several stipulations that are typically required when you take on a loan – especially a bad credit auto loan.
Although requirements for getting a loan are mandatory things that specifically relate to the financing itself, stips are additional qualifications that vary by lender. Stips support your loan application but don't typically impact your finances, and references are one of them.
Reference Requirements for Bad Credit Car Loans
A reference is someone who knows you. The number of references required typically varies, but generally, five to eight complete personal references are used in the financing process. These can be friends, family members, or coworkers, but they can't share the same address as you.
References are typically used in a few ways, both when you're trying to get a car loan, and when a lender can't reach you about a loan you already have. Usually, for a reference to be complete, you need to provide:
- Their full name
- Their mailing address
- Their email address
- Their phone numbers, including home, work, and cell, if applicable.
Before you add anyone's name to the list, be sure to ask them permission to use their name as well their address and phone number, and be sure to let them know that there is the possibility that they might be contacted by the lender in order to verify that they know you.
Why Use References?
References can vouch for you, giving the lender peace of mind.
References help bad credit auto lenders, called subprime lenders, look beyond your credit score, and support your request to be financed. They're part of the stipulations or stips used by most lenders that cater to credit-challenged consumers.
Other stips may include a valid driver's license, proof of a working telephone, proof of residency provided with a current utility bill or bank statement in your name, and proof of auto insurance. Stips and loan requirements vary by lender.
Ready to Get on the Road?
At Auto Credit Express, we work hard to connect consumers to the dealerships that have the lenders they need. If you're not sure where to start, start here. We've gathered a nationwide network of special finance dealers from around the country, and we want to put you in their capable hands.
Don't waste your hard-earned time and money by searching for a dealership on your own! Save both by filling out our fast, free, zero-obligation auto loan request form, and we'll get right to work matching you with a dealer in your area.
