Personal loans serve as versatile financial tools, offering distinct advantages compared to alternative borrowing methods such as credit cards or traditional bank loans. One key benefit is their easy application process, providing quick access to funds. Personal loans often boast lower interest rates compared to credit cards, reducing overall borrowing costs. Moreover, they feature transparent terms, ensuring borrowers fully understand their obligations. Personal loans are particularly valuable when consolidating high-interest debt, funding home improvements, or covering unexpected expenses. With their flexibility and favorable terms, the best personal loan companies offer a prudent choice for individuals seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution for various financial needs.
What is a Personal Loan?
A personal loan is a financial instrument extended by a bank, credit union, or online lender to an individual borrower for various personal expenses, typically unsecured by collateral. It provides borrowers with a lump sum of money that is repaid over a predetermined period, usually in fixed monthly installments. What distinguishes personal loans from other forms of borrowing, such as credit cards or mortgages, is their flexibility. They can be used for a wide range of purposes, from consolidating high-interest debts to funding home renovations, covering medical bills, or even taking a dream vacation. The terms of these loans generally range from a few months to several years. Lenders assess the borrower’s creditworthiness, income, and financial history when determining eligibility and interest rates. Overall, personal loans offer individuals a practical means to access funds for their unique financial needs without the need for collateral.
Best Personal Loans Lenders
The following is a list of the best personal loan lenders for borrowers of every credit stripe.
Wise Loan
Lender Details
Wise Loan is a reputable lender that has been in business for over a decade, demonstrating its reliability and commitment to providing lending solutions. The company specializes in offering installment loans, which are personal loans designed to be repaid over time in fixed monthly installments. These are typically unsecured loans, meaning they don’t require collateral, making them accessible to a wide range of borrowers. Wise Loan is known for its straightforward application process and transparent terms, providing individuals with a convenient and dependable option for various financial needs.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$200 to $3,500 (depending on your state)
APR:
299.96% to 799.00% (depending on where you live and your credit rating)
Minimum Credit Score:
N/A
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Same or next-day funding
Flexible qualification requirements
Cons:
Only available in Delaware, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi (returning customers only), Missouri, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin
Small loan amounts
SoFi
Lender Details
SoFi, short for Social Finance, is a well-established financial company that has been in business for several years. Since its inception in 2011, SoFi has gained recognition as a leading online personal finance company. It offers a diverse range of financial products and services, including student loan refinancing, personal loans, mortgages, and investment management. SoFi is renowned for its focus on empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals through innovative technology, competitive interest rates, and member benefits like career coaching and networking events. With a strong emphasis on community and economic well-being, SoFi has become a trusted partner for many seeking solutions for their financial needs.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$5,000 to $100,000
APR:
8.99% to 25.81%
Minimum Credit Score:
680
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Funding in as little as one to two days
High loan amounts and lengthy terms
Prequalification with soft credit check
Cons:
Co-signers are not permitted
Does not offer direct payment to third-party creditors for debt consolidation
Some applicants report challenging qualification standards
LendingPoint
Lender Details
LendingPoint is an established financial institution that has been operating in the lending industry for a significant period. The company was founded in 2014 and has since gained recognition for its commitment to providing personal loans to individuals facing various financial circumstances. LendingPoint primarily specializes in offering personal loans with flexible terms and competitive interest rates. These loans are designed to help borrowers consolidate debt, cover unexpected expenses, or fund significant life events. LendingPoint is known for its innovative underwriting approach, which takes into account factors beyond just credit scores, allowing individuals with diverse financial backgrounds to access financing. With a customer-centric focus and a history of serving borrowers, LendingPoint has established itself as a trusted source for personal lending solutions.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$2,000 to $36,500
APR:
7.99% to 35.99% (with autopay)
Minimum Credit Score:
600
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Quick funding
Low credit score requirements
No prepayment penalty
Cons:
Origination fee up to 10%
Co-signers and joint loans are not permitted
Not available in Nevada and West Virginia
Upstart
Lender Details
Upstart is a well-established financial technology company that has been in operation since its founding in 2012. With nearly a decade of experience, Upstart has carved out a niche in the lending industry. The company primarily offers personal loans to borrowers, aiming to provide innovative and data-driven solutions for individuals seeking financing. Upstart’s distinguishing feature is its use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to assess borrowers’ creditworthiness beyond traditional factors, making it possible for individuals with limited credit history to access loans. These loans are often used for various purposes, including debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, and other personal expenses. Upstart’s commitment to utilizing technology to make lending more inclusive and efficient has positioned it as a reputable player in the financial services industry.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$1,000 to $50,000
APR:
5.20% to 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score
300
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Ability to choose a custom payment date
Accessible to borrowers with fair credit
Offers prequalification with a soft credit check
Cons:
Charges an origination fee of up to 8% of the loan amount
Loans are available only for three-, five-, and seven-year terms
No secured or co-signer option
OneMain Financial
Lender Details
OneMain Financial is a well-established financial institution with a long history in the lending industry. The company has been providing lending solutions for individuals for over a century, having been founded in 1912. OneMain Financial specializes in offering personal loans to borrowers, making it possible for people to address their financial needs and goals. These personal loans can be used for purposes such as debt consolidation, home improvement, or unexpected expenses. OneMain Financial is known for its branch-based approach, with physical locations in various communities, providing a personal touch to the lending process. With its extensive experience and commitment to serving customers, OneMain Financial is a trusted choice for individuals seeking accessible and dependable lending solutions.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$1,500 to $20,000
APR:
18.00% to 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score:
600
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Direct payment to creditors on debt consolidation loans
Fast funding
Joint and secured loans
Option to choose and change your payment date
Cons:
Charges origination fee
Limited loan amounts
No rate discounts
Personal loan rates are high compared to other lenders
PenFed
Lender Details
PenFed, short for Pentagon Federal Credit Union, is a well-established financial institution that has been serving its members for decades. Founded in 1935, PenFed has a rich history of providing a wide range of financial products and services to its members, including personal loans. PenFed offers personal loans that are designed to meet the diverse financial needs of its members, whether it’s for debt consolidation, home improvement, or other personal expenses. As a credit union, PenFed is known for its member-focused approach, offering competitive interest rates and personalized service. With a solid commitment to serving military and civilian communities, PenFed has become a trusted institution for individuals seeking reliable and customer-friendly lending solutions.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$600 to $50,000
APR:
7.99% to 17.99%
Minimum Credit Score:
650
Pros and Cons
Pros:
No origination fees
Funding within 1-2 business days
APRs capped at 17.99%
Cons:
No autopay discounts
Bad credit borrowers may not qualify
Loans are exclusive to members
LendingClub
Lender Details
LendingClub is a prominent player in the financial technology industry, having been founded in 2006. With nearly two decades of experience, LendingClub has established itself as a reputable online marketplace lending platform. The company primarily facilitates peer-to-peer lending, connecting borrowers with investors who fund their loans. LendingClub’s primary product offering consists of personal loans that cater to various financial needs, such as debt consolidation, home improvement, or significant expenses. The platform is known for its user-friendly online application process and competitive interest rates. LendingClub has played an essential role in reshaping the lending landscape by harnessing technology to make borrowing and investing more accessible and transparent for individuals.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$1,000 to $40,000
APR:
9.57% to 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score:
~600
Pros and Cons
Pros:
High loan amounts
Check rate without impacting credit score
Joint loans available
Cons:
Terms are restricted to 3-5 years
High APRs
Controversial history
Upgrade
Lender Details
Upgrade is a prominent financial technology company that has made a mark in the lending industry since its founding in 2017. With several years of experience, Upgrade offers a variety of lending solutions to meet the financial needs of individuals. The company specializes in personal loans, providing borrowers with access to funds for purposes like debt consolidation, home improvement, or significant expenses. Upgrade is recognized for its innovative approach to lending, incorporating technology and data-driven underwriting to offer competitive interest rates and efficient application processes. Additionally, Upgrade provides credit monitoring and financial education resources to help borrowers improve their economic well-being. As a relatively newer player in the industry, Upgrade has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to making lending more accessible and user-friendly.
Loan Specifications
Loan Amounts:
$1,000 to $50,000
APR:
8.49% to 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score:
560
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Flexible repayment term durations
Autopay discount
Directly pays off former creditors
Low minimum loan amount
Cons:
May charge an origination fee
High maximum APR
Charges late fees
Tips for Comparing Personal Loans
When considering how to get a personal loan, it is vital to do your research and approach the decision with careful consideration. Understanding your specific financial needs and how various loan products on the market align with those needs is paramount. Start by evaluating the purpose of the loan, whether it’s for consolidating debt, covering unexpected expenses, or pursuing a significant project. Then, compare interest rates, terms, and fees offered by different lenders to find the most cost-effective option. Additionally, reviewing your credit score and financial health can help you qualify for better loan terms. By taking these steps, you can make an informed choice and secure a personal loan that best suits your circumstances.
Review Qualification Requirements: Before applying for a personal loan, carefully review the lender’s qualification criteria to ensure you meet their requirements. This can save you time and prevent unnecessary credit inquiries, ensuring you focus on lenders where you have a higher likelihood of approval.
Compare APRs from Different Lenders: It’s essential to compare the Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) from multiple lenders, as lower APRs mean lower overall borrowing costs, helping you find the most cost-effective loan option. By evaluating and selecting the lender with the lowest APR, you can save money over the life of your loan, ensuring a more cost-effective borrowing experience.
Look for Fast Funding: If you need funds quickly, opt for lenders with fast funding options, as some can disburse funds within a day, ensuring you can address your financial needs promptly.
Explore Other Loan Features: Beyond interest rates, consider additional loan features like prepayment penalties, flexible repayment terms, and borrower benefits, as these can enhance the overall value of your loan.
Why Trust Wise Loan as Your Personal Loan Lender?
Selecting Wise Loan as your loan provider offers a range of substantial benefits, particularly when navigating financial hardships. Wise Loan understands the urgency often associated with financial difficulties. We excel in providing swift access to funds, often disbursing loans within the same business day. This speedy process can be a crucial lifeline during emergencies.
When facing financial challenges, simplicity and convenience are paramount. Wise Loan offers an online application process that is user-friendly and efficient, enabling you to apply from the comfort of your home, reducing stress and inconvenience. Trust is established through transparency, and Wise Loan excels in this area. We provide borrowers with a comprehensive understanding of the terms and conditions of their loans. There are no hidden fees or surprises, ensuring that you have a complete picture of your financial commitment. Our flexible repayment terms allow you to select a schedule that aligns with your budget and financial situation. This flexibility can be a game-changer during economic hardships, reducing the risk of further financial strain. Wise Loan looks beyond credit scores when evaluating applicants. This inclusive approach means that even if you’ve faced economic challenges in the past and have a less-than-perfect credit score, you still have the opportunity to secure a loan.
In summary, Wise Loan’s transparent practices, competitive rates, accessibility, and proven track record make us the trustworthy choice.
Wise Loan Is Ready to Help!
Applying for a personal loan from Wise Loan today offers a multitude of benefits. You’ll gain access to quick funding, ensuring you can address financial needs promptly. With their user-friendly application process and transparent terms, securing a loan is convenient and hassle-free. Wise Loan’s inclusive lending approach accommodates various credit profiles. Plus, their commitment to helping borrowers rebuild their financial stability makes them a trusted choice for your loan needs. Apply now for a reliable and swift lending solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are the answers to several questions you may have about personal loans.
How Do Personal Loans Affect My Credit?
When you apply for a loan, a hard inquiry is made on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit score. However, responsible repayment of the loan can have a positive effect on your credit by demonstrating a history of on-time payments. Conversely, missed payments or defaults can harm your credit. Overall, personal loans can influence your credit score based on your payment behavior and credit management.
Which Personal Loan Company Is the Best?
Determining the best personal loan company depends on individual needs and circumstances. While Wise Loan offers transparency, quick funding, and flexible terms, the ideal choice varies. Consider factors like interest rates, eligibility, and loan terms. Compare options and read reviews to select a lender that aligns with your specific financial requirements and goals.
Who is the Easiest Lender to Get a Loan From?
Finding the most accessible lender to get a loan from is subjective and depends on your unique financial situation. Wise Loan is known for its inclusive approach, considering more than just credit scores, which can make it accessible to a broader range of borrowers. However, ease of approval varies from person to person. It’s essential to compare lenders, considering factors like credit history, income, and specific loan requirements, to find the lender that’s easiest for you to secure a loan with.
How Fast Can I Get a Personal Loan?
The speed at which you can obtain a personal loan depends on several factors, including the lender’s processing time, your application’s completeness, and the chosen loan type. Some lenders, like Wise Loan, offer quick funding, disbursing funds within a business day. Others may take longer. Completing a straightforward online application and having the necessary documents ready can expedite the process. Ultimately, personal loan approval and funding times can vary, so it’s essential to inquire with your specific lender for precise timing.
