no one ever checked the truthfulness of the details I supplied when applying for credit,

I was always bloody careful to keep up payments and make sure they had no need for concern. My career was always on stop/start because my wifes medical condition was so unstable. and the cards helped me through many a crisis.

wouldn't use the pay day loans - they are crooks.

you'd be surprised - most muso's have to hustle, and scrabble around to keep the show on the road.