laenuandjaga

Laenuandja is Estonian for “lender,” the person or institution that provides credit to a borrower under a loan agreement. The comitative form laenuandjaga literally means “with the lender” and is used in phrases such as negotiations with or contracts involving the lender.

Role and types

In Estonia, lenders may be banks, credit institutions, microfinance organisations, or online platforms enabling various forms of lending. They offer products such as tarbijalaen (consumer loans), kinnisvaralaen (mortgage loans), auto loans, and other credit agreements. The lender decides whether to approve a loan, determines the terms, and disburses funds according to the contract.

Regulation and obligations

Lenders operating in Estonia are subject to consumer credit law and financial supervision. They must hold a license from the Financial Supervision Authority (Finantsinspektsioon) and comply with requirements designed to protect borrowers. Obligations typically include providing clear information about the loan, including the annual percentage rate (APR), total cost, repayment schedule, and any fees; assessing the borrower's ability to repay; and ensuring terms are fair and non-discriminatory. Personal data processed during lending must follow applicable privacy and data-protection rules.

Borrower considerations

When dealing with a lender (koostöös laenuandjaga) or signing a contract, borrowers should compare offers, verify the lender’s license, read terms carefully, understand penalties for late payment or early repayment, and focus on total cost rather than just monthly payments. If issues arise, borrowers can contact the lender or seek guidance from the Financial Supervisory Authority.

See also: Tarbijakrediidi seadus, Finantsinspektsioon.