Confused and disappointed

I am extremely upset and disappointed with the way my credit application was handled. I have been a client of this bank for over 10 years, yet my recent credit application was declined purely because I could not provide traditional payslips — despite being self-employed for more than 12 months.

To make matters worse, the application process took close to a month, only to end in a rejection. Waiting that long for an outcome, especially as a loyal client, is incredibly frustrating and unacceptable.

I provided proof of income from multiple bank accounts, showed consistent earnings, and even have signed contracts securing work for the next 12 months. My income is more than sufficient, and this is clearly visible from my transaction history and financial records with the bank itself.

Why offer an option for “self-employed” applicants if the process still seems to be designed only for salaried individuals with payslips? It feels misleading and like self-employed clients are not genuinely considered, regardless of strong financial proof.

What makes this even more frustrating is that earlier last year another credit provider approved me for credit (albeit a smaller amount), and I even have a home loan with another bank. So how is it possible that other financial institutions are willing to assess my risk and assist me, yet the bank I’ve supported for over a decade is not?

This experience does not reflect the level of service or understanding I expect from a bank I’ve been loyal to for so long. Self-employed individuals are a significant part of the economy, and being penalised simply for not receiving a payslip — despite proven, stable income — feels outdated and unfair.

I would appreciate a proper review of this decision and clearer policies for self-employed clients. Depending on how this situation is handled from here, it will directly influence whether I revise my rating and overall perception of the bank going forward.