With South Africa preparing for a lockdown as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we at Wonga will continue to operate with our focus on supporting you through these challenging times. But as you can imagine, this is not business as usual for us and we have had to make some necessary adjustments which we want to make you aware of.
Changes to our loan terms
In this time of uncertainty, we want to ensure that you have access to short-term funds that you may need now without getting caught in a lengthy repayment period in the future. As such, this means that as a new customer, you will be able to apply for a loan from 4 days up to a maximum of 3 months. As an existing customer, you'll be able to repay up to 6 months.
Getting in touch with Customer Care
In the interest of our people’s well-being and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we have taken steps to allow our Customer Care team to work remotely from home. As we have not had the luxury of time to implement and test this remote service, our phone lines may experience some challenges and as such we recommend contacting our Customer Care team via our Live Chat feature on our website or by emailing [email protected]. As we are experiencing an increase in customers contacting us, please expect some delays in our service to you.
What to do:
If your job is affected by COVID-19 and you have a Wonga loan.
If you find yourself placed on short time or facing retrenchment and you cannot meet your loan repayment obligations, please contact our Customer Care team via email on [email protected] to make a repayment arrangement. As we are sensitive to your circumstances, our aim is to work with you to find the best solution and we will treat each case on an individual basis. Please include any supporting documents from your employer to assist in expediting this process.
To ensure you are prepared for a financial emergency.
COVID-19 has had an impact on economies around the world, with billions wiped off global financial markets over a very short period. As a result, most countries are forecasting recessions and job losses. In order to ensure you are financially prepared, we strongly urge you to cut back on unnecessary spending and try to save as much cash as you can. In the coming months, an emergency savings fund will help see you through a financial emergency. For more information about how to manage debt, savings and other great money tips, visit The Wonga Money Academy.
Don’t panic:
With the country on lockdown as of the 26th of March, it is important that you don’t panic. Listen to the advice from our Government and medical professionals on how to avoid contracting COVID-19. If you suspect you have COVID-19 and your symptoms include a dry cough, fever and sore throat, we advise that you contact the National Coronavirus 24-hour Hotline on 0800 029 999.