Personal loans are generally available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders, but banks represent the largest originator of personal loans across the spectrum, with 48% of the market share in 2023. Personal loans can be used for things like debt consolidation to pay off credit card debt or home renovations. Here are the four types of lenders that are issuing the bulk of personal loans in the U.S.
| Personal loan market share | Median borrower Equifax score | Median balance per account | Median account monthly payment |
|---|
| 14% (Fintech balances are reflected across sectors) | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
Personal loan finance companies | | | | |
|
Best for fast loans for fair and good credit
Pros
- Easy and fast online applications
- Many fintech lenders to choose from
- More lenient eligibility requirements than banks
- Offer loans to underserved near-prime and low-prime borrowers
Cons
- Loan APRs can be high if you have fair or bad credit
- Origination fees may apply
- Lack of physical branches and in-person service with many online lenders
Personal loan market share: 14% (Fintech balances are reflected across sectors) Median borrower Equifax score: 670 Median balance per account: $4,256 Median account monthly payment: $196
Fintech lenders, also referred to as online lenders or non-bank alternative lenders, are a type of financial institution that use digital technology to issue loans through mobile apps and websites. For example, Best Egg, Prosper, Upstart, and Avant are some of the leading fintech lenders in the market.
These companies are able to preempt state-level interest rate ceilings when partnering with specialist banks, which can make lending to high-risk consumers feasible in states where it might not be otherwise (due to low interest rate ceilings). Most fintechs partner with banks located in states with high rate ceilings, notably WebBank and Cross River Bank. The banks become the originating lender, allowing the fintech company to charge higher rates to borrowers in states with lower interest rate limits. Then, down the line, the banks sell the loans back to the fintech companies.
The result of this little dance? Fintech lenders can offer a fast and convenient way to get a personal loan online. Further, they are able to offer loans for fair credit and bad credit when non-bank lenders can't, and offer more flexible eligibility requirements than banks or credit unions.
Advertiser DisclosureOverview
Many lenders cap personal loans at $50,000, but LightStream is one of few that lets you borrow up to $100,000. This makes it an ideal lender if you’re looking to finance larger expenses, like home improvements or weddings. Additionally, LightStream doesn’t charge origination fees and APRs start at 6.99%—with the best rates reserved for borrowers with good to excellent credit.
Funds with LightStream may be available as soon as the same day, and repayment terms can last up to 20 years, depending on the type of loan you receive. However, LightStream does not offer prequalification on its site, so you won’t be able to see an estimate of your rates unless you formally apply.
Repayment terms
2 - 20 years, depending on loan purpose
Eligibility
Available in all states except RI and VT
Time to get funds
As soon as the same business day
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upstart often has one of the lowest minimum APRs available, making it a solid choice for borrowers with good credit or better. Applicants with poor, fair, or little to no credit may also be considered, as Upstart has no minimum credit score requirement (if you apply on the lender's website) and may accept applicants without scores. This lender offers loans between $1,000 and $50,000 with either three- or five-year repayment terms. Upstart may be ideal for you if you have good credit and can qualify for a low APR, or if you have bad credit and need a lender to look beyond your score.
In terms of its drawbacks, Upstart charges origination fees up to 12% on some personal loans. It also has a maximum APR of 35.99%, which is around the highest rate you'll find with a reputable lender, with no discounts available. Upstart also has fewer repayment term options than most lenders.
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days
Loan uses
Pay off credit cards, consolidate debt, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes
Overview
Splash is a lending marketplace that offers loans up to $100,000 (if you apply via its website) from a wide range of lenders, with next-day funding available with many. If you apply on its website, terms range from two to seven years. Notably, Splash has a live chat feature so you can get real-time answers without having to wait on hold or for an email.
It's worth considering a personal loan through Splash if you have good credit (ideally, a FICO score above 700). Rates are competitive, but borrowers with excellent credit may find lower APRs elsewhere, and origination fees can reach 12% on some loans.
Loan amount
$5,000 - $100,000 (up to $35,000 on Credible)
Eligibility
Available in all states except VT. OH and NM net disbursed amount must be greater than $5,000. MA must be greater than $6,000
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, home improvement, medical expenses, major purchases
Overview
Discover Personal Loans offer amounts up to $40,000 with fixed APRs starting at 7.99%. Repayment terms can be from 3 to 7 years and there are no additional fees, as long as you pay on time. The company lends to borrowers nationwide and funds may be available as soon as the next business day after approval.
Discover doesn’t allow cosigners and you’ll need a FICO credit score of 660 or higher to qualify.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Time to get funds
Funds can be sent as soon as the next business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding
Overview
SoFi’s personal loan rates are competitive, and that’s far from the only feature that makes this lender one of our best picks for borrowers with good credit. It also offers same-day funding, multiple rate discounts, large loans, and a range of terms — plus no mandatory origination fees. You may be able to borrow between $5,000 and $100,000 and repay it in two to seven years with SoFi.
Unfortunately, SoFi doesn’t allow cosigners, so the lender won’t be a good fit for borrowers with fair or poor credit profiles who want to apply with a friend or family member. SoFi does, however, have a convenient prequalification process than can give you an idea of whether you may qualify for a loan. The lender also provides a seamless online experience and has an admirable Trustpilot consumer review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Fees
Option to pay an origination fee in exchange for a lower rate
Time to get funds
Typically within a few days, given approval and bank account verification, but sometimes within the same day
Loan uses
Solely for personal, family, or household uses
Overview
Best Egg ranked second in J.D. Power's Consumer Lending Satisfaction Study, so it should come as no surprise that it’s one of our best picks for a wide range of borrowers. In addition to having relatively low rates and discounts, Best Egg provides loans from $2,000 to $50,000 and may consider applicants with credit scores of at least 600. Terms range from two to five years.
This lender stands out for offering better approval odds for prequalified applicants than many other lenders, according to Credible data. Specifically, prequalified applicants were more than twice as likely to be approved for final loans. Best Egg’s origination fees can reach 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, unsuccessful payment fee, check processing fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days after successful verification
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
LendingClub provides personal loans up to $40,000 with repayment terms between two to five years. The company is a strong choice for borrowers with good credit who don’t need funds fast, as LendingClub does not specify funding times on its site.
You can prequalify directly with LendingClub without having to provide your Social Security number, though you will need to provide it if you formally apply. Origination fees may be charged and range from 3% to 8%. LendingClub doesn’t offer discounts for autopay or direct pay.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, paying off credit cards
Overview
Avant personal loans are better suited to borrowers with bad credit (a FICO score below 580) than many others because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores in the 500s. Loan amounts up to $35,000 are available, so these loans are on the smaller side. But if this maximum is sufficient, Avant might appeal to you because it offers funding as soon as the next business day after approval and is more likely to approve the applications of prequalified borrowers than other lenders.
That said, Avant’s interest rates are steep, and the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upgrade offers loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and features competitive APRs, discounts for direct payments to creditors and enabling automatic payments, fast funding (as soon as the same day as approval), repayment terms up to seven years, and nationwide availability. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website.
Upgrade does charge origination fees between 1.85% and 9.99%, however. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Overview
BHG Financial stands out for offering the largest loan amounts - up to $200,000 - of any of our partner lenders. Simply put, if you need an unsecured personal loan over $100,000, there are very few places to find one. However, loan amounts start at $20,000, so look elsewhere for small loans. You'll have between three and 10 years to repay the loan, but you'll need an annual income of at least $100,000 and a FICO score of 660 or better to qualify.
Loan funds are available within three to 14 days of loan approval. BHG charges a modest origination fee between 3% and 4%, depending on your financial profile. Note that you can't prequalify for a personal loan with BHG.
Fees
Origination fees, late fees, other fees may apply
Eligibility
Available in all states except Illinois, North Dakota, and Montana
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, baby (adoption), engagement ring financing, moving (relocation), business, home improvement, special occasion, cosmetic procedures, major purchase, taxes, credit card refinancing, medical expenses, vacation, wedding, other
Overview
Universal Credit personal loans are ideal for bad-credit borrowers because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores as low as 560. You can apply for loan amounts between $1,000 and $50,000 and may qualify for next-day funding. Because Universal Credit has higher APRs than other lenders, it may be best suited to individuals without the credit and/or income needed to qualify for more competitive rates with other lenders.
You can choose from repayments terms of three, five or seven years. Universal Credit has higher origination fees than many lenders, charging between 5.25% and 9.99% on all personal loans. This lender offers interest rate discounts when you opt for automatic payments or direct payment to creditors (in the case of debt consolidation).
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Overview
Happy Money, formerly known as Payoff, is an ideal lender for debt consolidation and credit card consolidation loans. The company offers APRs starting at 11.72% and loan amounts up to $40,000. You may be able to qualify for a loan with Happy Money with fair credit, but the best rates are reserved for those with good to excellent credit scores.
The company charges origination fees up to 5%, which is lower than some competitors, and you can receive funding in three to five business days once approved. Check to see if loans are available in your area, as Happy Money doesn’t fund borrowers in Massachusetts or Nevada.
Eligibility
Available in all states except MA, MS, NV, and OH
Time to get funds
As soon as 2 - 5 business days after verification
Loan uses
Debt consolidation and credit card consolidation only
Overview
When it comes to personal loans for fair-credit borrowers, Reach Financial is one of the best choices around. This lender offers fast processing, with a majority of approved applications receiving funds within a day. Terms start at two years and end at five years for personal loans, and loan amounts are between $3,500 and $40,000. This isn’t the right lender for the shortest or longest terms available, and the borrowing range is narrower than you’d find with many lenders.
Reach focuses on borrowers using personal loans to pay off debt and only permits two purposes for its loans: debt consolidation and credit card refinancing. It’s also worth noting that the lender does not work with borrowers in every state and charges origination fees up to 8%.
Fees
Origination Fee, $15 Late Fee, $25 NSF Fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except CO, CT, ME, NV, NH, TN, VT, WV, WY, and all U.S. Territories
Time to get funds
Funds typically deposited into your account in 1 business day13
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing
Overview
For bad-credit personal loans, OneMain Financial is one of the best lenders you can consider. In addition to not setting a minimum credit score for applicants who apply directly through the website, OneMain permits cosigners on applications and offers secured personal loans. Cosigners can help you improve your chances of approval and possibly secure lower APRs. Secured loans require you to pledge collateral when applying and tend to be easier to qualify for than unsecured loans, which typically require higher credit scores and no collateral.
Repayment terms range from two to five years. Personal loan amounts between $1,500 and $20,000 are available, with different minimums and maximums in select states. Also depending on where you live, you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 to $500 or 1% to 10% for origination. You may be eligible for a personal loan with OneMain if you have bad credit (a FICO score of 580 or lower), but the lender’s rates are very high compared to many others.
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Overview
Many lenders cap personal loans at $50,000, but LightStream is one of few that lets you borrow up to $100,000. This makes it an ideal lender if you’re looking to finance larger expenses, like home improvements or weddings. Additionally, LightStream doesn’t charge origination fees and APRs start at 6.99%—with the best rates reserved for borrowers with good to excellent credit.
Funds with LightStream may be available as soon as the same day, and repayment terms can last up to 20 years, depending on the type of loan you receive. However, LightStream does not offer prequalification on its site, so you won’t be able to see an estimate of your rates unless you formally apply.
Repayment terms
2 - 20 years, depending on loan purpose
Eligibility
Available in all states except RI and VT
Time to get funds
As soon as the same business day
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upstart often has one of the lowest minimum APRs available, making it a solid choice for borrowers with good credit or better. Applicants with poor, fair, or little to no credit may also be considered, as Upstart has no minimum credit score requirement (if you apply on the lender's website) and may accept applicants without scores. This lender offers loans between $1,000 and $50,000 with either three- or five-year repayment terms. Upstart may be ideal for you if you have good credit and can qualify for a low APR, or if you have bad credit and need a lender to look beyond your score.
In terms of its drawbacks, Upstart charges origination fees up to 12% on some personal loans. It also has a maximum APR of 35.99%, which is around the highest rate you'll find with a reputable lender, with no discounts available. Upstart also has fewer repayment term options than most lenders.
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days
Loan uses
Pay off credit cards, consolidate debt, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes
Overview
Splash is a lending marketplace that offers loans up to $100,000 (if you apply via its website) from a wide range of lenders, with next-day funding available with many. If you apply on its website, terms range from two to seven years. Notably, Splash has a live chat feature so you can get real-time answers without having to wait on hold or for an email.
It's worth considering a personal loan through Splash if you have good credit (ideally, a FICO score above 700). Rates are competitive, but borrowers with excellent credit may find lower APRs elsewhere, and origination fees can reach 12% on some loans.
Loan amount
$5,000 - $100,000 (up to $35,000 on Credible)
Eligibility
Available in all states except VT. OH and NM net disbursed amount must be greater than $5,000. MA must be greater than $6,000
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, home improvement, medical expenses, major purchases
Overview
Discover Personal Loans offer amounts up to $40,000 with fixed APRs starting at 7.99%. Repayment terms can be from 3 to 7 years and there are no additional fees, as long as you pay on time. The company lends to borrowers nationwide and funds may be available as soon as the next business day after approval.
Discover doesn’t allow cosigners and you’ll need a FICO credit score of 660 or higher to qualify.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Time to get funds
Funds can be sent as soon as the next business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding
Overview
SoFi’s personal loan rates are competitive, and that’s far from the only feature that makes this lender one of our best picks for borrowers with good credit. It also offers same-day funding, multiple rate discounts, large loans, and a range of terms — plus no mandatory origination fees. You may be able to borrow between $5,000 and $100,000 and repay it in two to seven years with SoFi.
Unfortunately, SoFi doesn’t allow cosigners, so the lender won’t be a good fit for borrowers with fair or poor credit profiles who want to apply with a friend or family member. SoFi does, however, have a convenient prequalification process than can give you an idea of whether you may qualify for a loan. The lender also provides a seamless online experience and has an admirable Trustpilot consumer review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Fees
Option to pay an origination fee in exchange for a lower rate
Time to get funds
Typically within a few days, given approval and bank account verification, but sometimes within the same day
Loan uses
Solely for personal, family, or household uses
Overview
Best Egg ranked second in J.D. Power's Consumer Lending Satisfaction Study, so it should come as no surprise that it’s one of our best picks for a wide range of borrowers. In addition to having relatively low rates and discounts, Best Egg provides loans from $2,000 to $50,000 and may consider applicants with credit scores of at least 600. Terms range from two to five years.
This lender stands out for offering better approval odds for prequalified applicants than many other lenders, according to Credible data. Specifically, prequalified applicants were more than twice as likely to be approved for final loans. Best Egg’s origination fees can reach 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, unsuccessful payment fee, check processing fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days after successful verification
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
LendingClub provides personal loans up to $40,000 with repayment terms between two to five years. The company is a strong choice for borrowers with good credit who don’t need funds fast, as LendingClub does not specify funding times on its site.
You can prequalify directly with LendingClub without having to provide your Social Security number, though you will need to provide it if you formally apply. Origination fees may be charged and range from 3% to 8%. LendingClub doesn’t offer discounts for autopay or direct pay.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, paying off credit cards
Overview
Avant personal loans are better suited to borrowers with bad credit (a FICO score below 580) than many others because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores in the 500s. Loan amounts up to $35,000 are available, so these loans are on the smaller side. But if this maximum is sufficient, Avant might appeal to you because it offers funding as soon as the next business day after approval and is more likely to approve the applications of prequalified borrowers than other lenders.
That said, Avant’s interest rates are steep, and the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upgrade offers loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and features competitive APRs, discounts for direct payments to creditors and enabling automatic payments, fast funding (as soon as the same day as approval), repayment terms up to seven years, and nationwide availability. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website.
Upgrade does charge origination fees between 1.85% and 9.99%, however. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Overview
BHG Financial stands out for offering the largest loan amounts - up to $200,000 - of any of our partner lenders. Simply put, if you need an unsecured personal loan over $100,000, there are very few places to find one. However, loan amounts start at $20,000, so look elsewhere for small loans. You'll have between three and 10 years to repay the loan, but you'll need an annual income of at least $100,000 and a FICO score of 660 or better to qualify.
Loan funds are available within three to 14 days of loan approval. BHG charges a modest origination fee between 3% and 4%, depending on your financial profile. Note that you can't prequalify for a personal loan with BHG.
Fees
Origination fees, late fees, other fees may apply
Eligibility
Available in all states except Illinois, North Dakota, and Montana
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, baby (adoption), engagement ring financing, moving (relocation), business, home improvement, special occasion, cosmetic procedures, major purchase, taxes, credit card refinancing, medical expenses, vacation, wedding, other
Overview
Universal Credit personal loans are ideal for bad-credit borrowers because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores as low as 560. You can apply for loan amounts between $1,000 and $50,000 and may qualify for next-day funding. Because Universal Credit has higher APRs than other lenders, it may be best suited to individuals without the credit and/or income needed to qualify for more competitive rates with other lenders.
You can choose from repayments terms of three, five or seven years. Universal Credit has higher origination fees than many lenders, charging between 5.25% and 9.99% on all personal loans. This lender offers interest rate discounts when you opt for automatic payments or direct payment to creditors (in the case of debt consolidation).
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Overview
Happy Money, formerly known as Payoff, is an ideal lender for debt consolidation and credit card consolidation loans. The company offers APRs starting at 11.72% and loan amounts up to $40,000. You may be able to qualify for a loan with Happy Money with fair credit, but the best rates are reserved for those with good to excellent credit scores.
The company charges origination fees up to 5%, which is lower than some competitors, and you can receive funding in three to five business days once approved. Check to see if loans are available in your area, as Happy Money doesn’t fund borrowers in Massachusetts or Nevada.
Eligibility
Available in all states except MA, MS, NV, and OH
Time to get funds
As soon as 2 - 5 business days after verification
Loan uses
Debt consolidation and credit card consolidation only
Overview
When it comes to personal loans for fair-credit borrowers, Reach Financial is one of the best choices around. This lender offers fast processing, with a majority of approved applications receiving funds within a day. Terms start at two years and end at five years for personal loans, and loan amounts are between $3,500 and $40,000. This isn’t the right lender for the shortest or longest terms available, and the borrowing range is narrower than you’d find with many lenders.
Reach focuses on borrowers using personal loans to pay off debt and only permits two purposes for its loans: debt consolidation and credit card refinancing. It’s also worth noting that the lender does not work with borrowers in every state and charges origination fees up to 8%.
Fees
Origination Fee, $15 Late Fee, $25 NSF Fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except CO, CT, ME, NV, NH, TN, VT, WV, WY, and all U.S. Territories
Time to get funds
Funds typically deposited into your account in 1 business day13
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing
Overview
For bad-credit personal loans, OneMain Financial is one of the best lenders you can consider. In addition to not setting a minimum credit score for applicants who apply directly through the website, OneMain permits cosigners on applications and offers secured personal loans. Cosigners can help you improve your chances of approval and possibly secure lower APRs. Secured loans require you to pledge collateral when applying and tend to be easier to qualify for than unsecured loans, which typically require higher credit scores and no collateral.
Repayment terms range from two to five years. Personal loan amounts between $1,500 and $20,000 are available, with different minimums and maximums in select states. Also depending on where you live, you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 to $500 or 1% to 10% for origination. You may be eligible for a personal loan with OneMain if you have bad credit (a FICO score of 580 or lower), but the lender’s rates are very high compared to many others.
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Fox Business does not make or arrange loans.
Best for borrowers with excellent credit
Pros
- High loan amounts
- Widely available
- In-person customer service
Cons
- Stricter eligibility requirements
- Typically higher costs than credit unions and some fintech lenders
- May require you to be a customer
Personal loan market share: 48% Median borrower Equifax score: 741 Median balance per account: $8,348 Median account monthly payment: $293
Banks are for-profit corporations that offer deposit accounts such as savings and checking accounts to hold consumer funds, provide financial services, and make loans. They can take the form of large national operations, like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Chase, and Capital One, as well as smaller community or regional organizations.
While not all banks offer personal loans, many do. In 2022, banks issued 48% of the personal loans in the U.S. - more than any other type of institution. They also have a significantly higher median balance per account than any other lender type. On the downside, banks may charge higher borrowing costs on average, and generally require higher credit scores than other lender types.
Overview
Discover Personal Loans offer amounts up to $40,000 with fixed APRs starting at 7.99%. Repayment terms can be from 3 to 7 years and there are no additional fees, as long as you pay on time. The company lends to borrowers nationwide and funds may be available as soon as the next business day after approval.
Discover doesn’t allow cosigners and you’ll need a FICO credit score of 660 or higher to qualify.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Time to get funds
Funds can be sent as soon as the next business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding
Overview
SoFi’s personal loan rates are competitive, and that’s far from the only feature that makes this lender one of our best picks for borrowers with good credit. It also offers same-day funding, multiple rate discounts, large loans, and a range of terms — plus no mandatory origination fees. You may be able to borrow between $5,000 and $100,000 and repay it in two to seven years with SoFi.
Unfortunately, SoFi doesn’t allow cosigners, so the lender won’t be a good fit for borrowers with fair or poor credit profiles who want to apply with a friend or family member. SoFi does, however, have a convenient prequalification process than can give you an idea of whether you may qualify for a loan. The lender also provides a seamless online experience and has an admirable Trustpilot consumer review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Fees
Option to pay an origination fee in exchange for a lower rate
Time to get funds
Typically within a few days, given approval and bank account verification, but sometimes within the same day
Loan uses
Solely for personal, family, or household uses
Overview
Discover Personal Loans offer amounts up to $40,000 with fixed APRs starting at 7.99%. Repayment terms can be from 3 to 7 years and there are no additional fees, as long as you pay on time. The company lends to borrowers nationwide and funds may be available as soon as the next business day after approval.
Discover doesn’t allow cosigners and you’ll need a FICO credit score of 660 or higher to qualify.
Eligibility
Available in all 50 states
Time to get funds
Funds can be sent as soon as the next business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding
Overview
SoFi’s personal loan rates are competitive, and that’s far from the only feature that makes this lender one of our best picks for borrowers with good credit. It also offers same-day funding, multiple rate discounts, large loans, and a range of terms — plus no mandatory origination fees. You may be able to borrow between $5,000 and $100,000 and repay it in two to seven years with SoFi.
Unfortunately, SoFi doesn’t allow cosigners, so the lender won’t be a good fit for borrowers with fair or poor credit profiles who want to apply with a friend or family member. SoFi does, however, have a convenient prequalification process than can give you an idea of whether you may qualify for a loan. The lender also provides a seamless online experience and has an admirable Trustpilot consumer review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Fees
Option to pay an origination fee in exchange for a lower rate
Time to get funds
Typically within a few days, given approval and bank account verification, but sometimes within the same day
Loan uses
Solely for personal, family, or household uses
Fox Business does not make or arrange loans.
Best for competitive rates if you can qualify for membership
Pros
- Widely available
- Low interest rates and fees
- May earn dividends with membership
- More lenient credit requirements than banks
Cons
- Membership is required and may be limited
- Less lenient credit requirements than some non-bank lenders
Personal loan market share: 28% Median borrower Equifax score: 714 Median balance per account: $4,966 Median account monthly payment: $221
Credit unions are member-owned, nonprofit cooperatives that accept deposits, make loans, and pay out their earnings to members. They also typically offer checking and savings accounts like banks. Because credit unions are nonprofit organizations and require borrowers to be members/shareholders, they often offer competitive annual percentage rates (APRs) — which include the interest rate and any upfront fees — and more lenient eligibility requirements than banks, which means your loan application may be more likely to be approved even with less-than-good-credit.
If you can't qualify for a personal loan based on your creditworthiness, credit unions provide other loan options. For example, credit unions offer payday alternative loans (PALs), which are designed as low-cost options for borrowers who would struggle to qualify for a traditional personal loan.
On the downside, a credit union membership may only be available to people in certain areas or with certain affiliations.
Best for bad credit once you've exhausted other options
Pros
- More lenient credit score requirements
- Applying can be easy and fast
Cons
- Low average loan amounts
- High borrowing costs in some states
- State limits may prevent borrowers from qualifying
Personal loan market share: 15% Median borrower Equifax score: 610 Median balance per account: $2,905 Median account monthly payment: $169
Personal loan financial companies are non-bank lenders that provide loans directly to borrowers, often online. Fintech lenders fall into this category when they don't partner with banks to originate loans.
As non-bank lenders, financial companies must abide by state laws limiting loan amounts, rates, fees, and terms. While they were traditionally the main source of personal loans for higher-risk borrowers, fintech lenders working around the limits have been moving in on the market.
That said, it's worth noting that personal loan finance companies approve borrowers with a much lower median Equifax risk score than any other lender type. On the downside, they also have the lowest median loan balance per account, and fees can be high. Payday loans, for example, fall in this category.
If you need a personal loan with bad credit, your best bet will be a personal loan from a personal loan finance company, if you can qualify. Some lenders, like OneMain Financial, don't have a credit score minimum and allow you to apply with a cosigner or secure your loan with an asset to help qualify or lower your rate.
Tip
To find a personal loan for bad credit or fair credit, look for direct personal loan lenders with a minimum credit score requirement below yours.
It's helpful to prequalify with at least three to five lenders you think might be a good fit and compare rates and terms to find the best deal available to you. Prequalification won't impact your credit, but your score may dip temporarily once you formally apply for a loan.
Overview
Avant personal loans are better suited to borrowers with bad credit (a FICO score below 580) than many others because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores in the 500s. Loan amounts up to $35,000 are available, so these loans are on the smaller side. But if this maximum is sufficient, Avant might appeal to you because it offers funding as soon as the next business day after approval and is more likely to approve the applications of prequalified borrowers than other lenders.
That said, Avant’s interest rates are steep, and the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upgrade offers loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and features competitive APRs, discounts for direct payments to creditors and enabling automatic payments, fast funding (as soon as the same day as approval), repayment terms up to seven years, and nationwide availability. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website.
Upgrade does charge origination fees between 1.85% and 9.99%, however. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Overview
Universal Credit personal loans are ideal for bad-credit borrowers because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores as low as 560. You can apply for loan amounts between $1,000 and $50,000 and may qualify for next-day funding. Because Universal Credit has higher APRs than other lenders, it may be best suited to individuals without the credit and/or income needed to qualify for more competitive rates with other lenders.
You can choose from repayments terms of three, five or seven years. Universal Credit has higher origination fees than many lenders, charging between 5.25% and 9.99% on all personal loans. This lender offers interest rate discounts when you opt for automatic payments or direct payment to creditors (in the case of debt consolidation).
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Overview
For bad-credit personal loans, OneMain Financial is one of the best lenders you can consider. In addition to not setting a minimum credit score for applicants who apply directly through the website, OneMain permits cosigners on applications and offers secured personal loans. Cosigners can help you improve your chances of approval and possibly secure lower APRs. Secured loans require you to pledge collateral when applying and tend to be easier to qualify for than unsecured loans, which typically require higher credit scores and no collateral.
Repayment terms range from two to five years. Personal loan amounts between $1,500 and $20,000 are available, with different minimums and maximums in select states. Also depending on where you live, you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 to $500 or 1% to 10% for origination. You may be eligible for a personal loan with OneMain if you have bad credit (a FICO score of 580 or lower), but the lender’s rates are very high compared to many others.
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Overview
Avant personal loans are better suited to borrowers with bad credit (a FICO score below 580) than many others because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores in the 500s. Loan amounts up to $35,000 are available, so these loans are on the smaller side. But if this maximum is sufficient, Avant might appeal to you because it offers funding as soon as the next business day after approval and is more likely to approve the applications of prequalified borrowers than other lenders.
That said, Avant’s interest rates are steep, and the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%.
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Overview
Upgrade offers loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and features competitive APRs, discounts for direct payments to creditors and enabling automatic payments, fast funding (as soon as the same day as approval), repayment terms up to seven years, and nationwide availability. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website.
Upgrade does charge origination fees between 1.85% and 9.99%, however. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Overview
Universal Credit personal loans are ideal for bad-credit borrowers because the lender may consider applicants with credit scores as low as 560. You can apply for loan amounts between $1,000 and $50,000 and may qualify for next-day funding. Because Universal Credit has higher APRs than other lenders, it may be best suited to individuals without the credit and/or income needed to qualify for more competitive rates with other lenders.
You can choose from repayments terms of three, five or seven years. Universal Credit has higher origination fees than many lenders, charging between 5.25% and 9.99% on all personal loans. This lender offers interest rate discounts when you opt for automatic payments or direct payment to creditors (in the case of debt consolidation).
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Overview
For bad-credit personal loans, OneMain Financial is one of the best lenders you can consider. In addition to not setting a minimum credit score for applicants who apply directly through the website, OneMain permits cosigners on applications and offers secured personal loans. Cosigners can help you improve your chances of approval and possibly secure lower APRs. Secured loans require you to pledge collateral when applying and tend to be easier to qualify for than unsecured loans, which typically require higher credit scores and no collateral.
Repayment terms range from two to five years. Personal loan amounts between $1,500 and $20,000 are available, with different minimums and maximums in select states. Also depending on where you live, you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 to $500 or 1% to 10% for origination. You may be eligible for a personal loan with OneMain if you have bad credit (a FICO score of 580 or lower), but the lender’s rates are very high compared to many others.
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Fox Business does not make or arrange loans.
The amount you can borrow through a personal loan will depend on a variety of factors including your credit, income amount, current debt, loan purpose, and the lender you choose. The best way to find out what you can get is to request quotes by prequalifying with several lenders.
You can find out if you prequalify for a personal loan with a lender by requesting a quote, but you won't know for sure until you go through the full application process. Generally, you'll need a credit score and annual income above the lender's minimum requirements (varies by lender), as a debt-to-income ratio (DTI) below the lender's maximum (a DTI below 36% is ideal), and sufficient income to make payments.
You can often get a personal loan within one to three business days if you don't run into any hang-ups. However, the application, approval, and origination processes can vary, so it's best to check with the lenders you're considering. Lenders often advertise their average funding times or share estimated funding time frames on their websites - some can even send money the same day you apply.
Meet the contributor:
Jessica Walrack
Jessica Walrack has over a decade of experience in personal finance. Her work has been featured by CBS News MoneyWatch, USA Today, U.S. News and World, Investopedia, and The Balance Money.
