The last 10 years has changed the work landscape in Canada. In 2016, Statistics Canada counted over 1.2 million individuals in the “gig” economy and the numbers are rising each year. With more and more people leaving the 9-5 behind in favour of working independently, the gig opportunity does come with its advantages and disadvantages.
The main benefit of gig work is the flexibility in allowing you to work at your convenience. You can work where you like and the hours you want. It also provides greater independence with a lower barrier to entry. Which, in many cases does not require any previous work experience.
There are Financial Hurdles for Gig Workers
Due to the lack of consistency in earnings, it can be difficult for independent workers to access emergency funds. A traditional lender typically looks for two qualities in loan applicants:
- A reliable source of income
- A good credit score
Even with earnings comparable to regional statistics, gig workers face difficulties in convincing lenders of steady income when receiving fluctuating paystubs from multiple sources. The initial difficulties in accessing credit can also compound, leaving gig workers without real means to improve their credit scores. Consequently, this leaves minimal options for gig workers and forces them to seek expensive payday loans to cover unexpected expenses.
A new fintech startup Moves has emerged with fair and affordable loans for gig workers. At this time, Moves exclusively serves contingent gig workers who make their earnings from rideshare and food delivery apps in Ontario; however, they are looking to expand to include more independent workers across North America.
No Credit Check With Moves
Unlike traditional lenders, Moves does not require a credit score and does not report to the credit bureaus. Instead, they evaluate an individual’s ability to repay the loan based on earnings from gig jobs.
Currently, Moves is offering loans of $500 to Ontario based rideshare drivers and food couriers who have received income from DoorDash, Foodora, FaceDrive, Hiride, Instacart, Lyft, Skip the Dishes, Uber, or Uber Eats in the last 90 days.
This unique credit offering is optimized for the flexibility demanded by the gig economy. We tested the application – the process is easy, short and straightforward to request a loan. Applicants are approved in as little as 15 minutes and funds arrive within 48 hours.
The best, interest payments and fees are kept affordable with small weekly payments – making it easier to repay your loan. For a $500 loan – you would make payments of $43/week for 12 weeks for a total repayment of $516.
If you are a worker in the “gig” economy and need access to funds, give Moves a try. Click here.
