You’re our first priority.
Every time.
We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.
So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners.
How to Apply for a Personal Loan
Lead Writer | Buy now, pay later loans, debt consolidation, personal loans
Lead Writer | Personal finance, Personal loans
Lead Assigning Editor | Consumer lending
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
Visit your My NerdWallet Settings page to see all the writers you're following.
How to Apply for a personal loan
- What is a charitable donation?
- Compare types of bank accounts
- What is a backdoor Roth IRA?
- Mortgage rates today: Monday, April 22, 2024
- Mortgage rates this week
- What is a W-4?
- EToro is best for:
- Coinbase is best for:
- See how to get your business started quickly
- Investing for kids
- What is a brokerage account?
- 6 steps to opening a Roth IRA
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medigap plans
- What is a budget?
- Key takeaways:
- Life insurance buying guide
- See CD rates by term and type
- What is an IRS audit?
- Dividend definition
- What is an overdraft protection transfer?
- What is the sales tax deduction?
- What is the qualified business income deduction?
- Bluevine Business Checking
- » This page is out of date
- What is a jumbo loan?
- What is a put option?
- What is a tax dependent?
- What is Upwork?
- How to earn a Chase checking account bonus
- Hubspot
- Zoho CRM
- Quick tips for where to exchange currency
- Alternatives to waiting on hold
- Wait times vary
- What is debt-to-income ratio?
- Tax benefits of buying a home
- What is a VA home loan?
- About Amica home insurance
- 1. Determine how much to save for a down payment
- What is a Roth 401(k)?
- Attractive welcome bonus
- Investing money is personal
- Dallas-Fort Worth airport quick facts
- How to use this calculator
- About Lemonade renters insurance
- What is YouTube Premium?
- What are dividend stocks?
- What is a reverse mortgage?
- What is overdraft protection?
- What is a utility bill?
- About Progressive home insurance
- How to get paid on TikTok
- What is passive income?
- SONYMA highlights and eligibility requirements
- 5 steps to fill out a money order
- The best pet insurance companies at a glance
- 7 of the best apps to make money
- Growth vs. value: What's the difference?
- Savings accounts
- How to cut the airport bag check line
- What is a savings account?
- How to get paid on YouTube
- Solar loan calculator
- How to buy Robinhood stock
- 1. You’ve reached your credit limit
- What are stock options?
- 1. Not figuring out how much house you can afford
- 1. Certificates of deposit (CDs)
- The major differences
- How to invest in Black-owned businesses
- How much should you spend on rent? It depends
- Overview
- Why your credit score matters to lenders
- Best-performing biotech ETFs
- The clock is ticking on credit card fraud
- Background: UAW is riding a wave of union support
- Value of Membership Rewards points at Amazon
- Bonvoy properties
- What is Early Warning Services?
- Which cellular network is best for you?
- What is cryptocurrency?
- PHFA highlights and eligibility
- The Benefits of Hyatt Globalist status
- How does a 10-year adjustable-rate mortgage work?
- How to use a savings goal calculator
- The right time to ask for a credit limit increase
- What a mortgage servicer does
- How voluntary repossession works
- What are small-cap stocks?
- What is an accredited investor?
- Is Upwork a legit way to make money?
- Institutions with low or no overdraft fees
- Types of inbound marketing
- Tips to get the best last-minute travel deals
- What does APY mean?
- HubSpot Marketing Hub: Best overall marketing software
- California state income tax brackets and rates
- How do LLC taxes work?
- Step 1: Check your credit
- Delta travel insurance plans
- Spending rewards
- The best car insurance
- EToro at a glance
- Coinbase at a glance
- Refinance to a lower rate
- What is long-term care insurance?
- When will the IDR adjustment happen if I don’t get automatic forgiveness?
- Most profitable small businesses
- Frugal food tips
- Why you'll like the Apple savings account
- How does capital gains tax on real estate work?
- 50/30/20 budget calculator
- Best places to sell clothes online
- 1. Contact your issuer
- The best budget apps
- Average car loan interest rates by credit score
- What are credit freezes and credit locks?
- What does homeowners insurance cover?
- 1. Start investing as early as possible
- The best flight booking sites
- What is liability insurance?
- Texas state small-business grants
- How do CDs work?
- DFW airport map
- QuickBooks Online pricing
- 1. Set your budget
- Pick up side work
- Vending machine costs
- What is the child tax credit?
- Check your eligibility
- APY vs. interest rate: What’s the difference?
- Discounts for smart-home devices
- 1. Find a payment strategy or two
- Why do mortgages get sold?
- How people use reverse mortgages
- Colorado-specific small-business grants
- What is options trading?
- January
- What is a growth stock?
- 1. Strengthen your financial profile
- What information is on a utility bill?
- Minimum wage over time
- Determining needs
- What is business capital?
- Toll passes to use in rental cars
- Renting a Getaround car
- 1. Open an IRA
- Earn the sign-up bonus
- 1. Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card
- What is a virtual assistant?
- Where Southwest flies in the Caribbean
- Qualifying for an HSA
- American Airlines AAdvantage
- Best banks and credit unions
- Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks?
- What is backup withholding?
- Chase checking account bonuses 2024
- Where to find information for the calculator
- Average savings account rate: 0.46%
- How to find a currency exchange near you
- Are charitable donations tax-deductible?
- The scope of the sustainability problem
- The best time to book rental cars
- Pros of a condo vs. a house
- Daily mortgage rates chart
- How do credit union loans work?
- Best fleet fuel cards
- Government startup business grants and resources
- 1. Know your bank’s mobile check deposit requirements
- What is a co-op home?
- What is an EIN?
- Grants for people previously convicted of a felony
- How do brokerage accounts work?
- 1. Fill out the FAFSA
- Understanding your solar loan calculator results
- 1. There are two versions of the card
- What does this value mean?
- Network changes
- How do down payment assistance programs work?
- Roth 401(k) vs. traditional 401(k): Where they differ
- Pay private student loans first
- No rewards on purchases
- Can I renew my passport at the post office?
- What’s the value when booking travel through the Capital One portal?
- The best ways to book flights
- Top USAA credit cards
- Know when to complain
- Late winter and early spring
- Best ways to consolidate credit card debt
- Why the IRS audits people
- The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card vs. the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business card
- How to calculate your debt-to-income ratio
- Starting an import/export business
- 5 of the best index funds tracking the S&P 500
- What goes into the credit card interest calculation
- 1. Shop at Downtown Disney
- What is the gift tax?
- How is overdraft protection different from overdraft coverage?
- How much is YouTube Premium?
- What’s deductible
- Kids don’t need an ID when flying within the U.S.
- Tips to cancel airline tickets booked through an online travel agency
- Advantages of using credit cards
- The difference between cancellation and non-renewal
- When airline credit cards are worth it
- You do need to use credit
- How does a jumbo loan work?
- Get personalized student loan savings estimates
- How to calculate the cost of starting a business
- Key takeaways
- How does a speeding ticket affect your license points?
- Key stats behind UAW’s unionization push
- 8 tips for finding a tax preparer or tax professional near you
- Who can you claim as a tax dependent?
- The new changes
- 17 passive income ideas for 2024
- What is a tax extension?
- 1. Fill in the recipient’s name
- How to consolidate your debt
- Applying for a loan online vs. in person: Pros and cons
- How Social Security works now
- Car theft insurance at a glance
- The best money-making apps
- How common is credit card fraud?
- Value vs. growth stocks at a glance
- How much do Instagram influencers make?
- How to make money online
- Roth IRA income limits
- How to understand the calculator results
- Book an award trip with Alaska or its travel partners
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- How does a business budget work?
- 11 best investments right now
- What is the standard deduction?
- How does a VA home loan work?
- 15 franchise opportunities
- 1. 529 Savings and investing accounts
- If you have private insurance
- Average condo insurance cost by state
- Why refinance your car loan?
- What is a dividend aristocrat?
- Wells Fargo adds travel transfer partners
- Investment account types
- Breakdown of central air costs
- What is a Southwest Airlines Companion Pass?
- How to use the car affordability calculator
- Credit definition
- In short: 3 revenue sources
- Summary of cash advance apps
- Credit cards with no balance transfer fees
- How biotech ETFs work
- How does overdraft protection work?
- Impact to your credit scores
- 1. Stay invested
- You'll keep more money in stocks
- How to invest in stocks in 6 steps
- How to convert JetBlue points to dollars
- Find student loan refinancing
- Netflix subscription cost
- Start with your student loan servicer
- 5 reasons to start a painting business
- How your servicer can help if you’re behind on payments
- What is a business credit score?
- Is refinancing federal student loans a bad idea?
- You need to build credit
- Mint vs. NerdWallet at a glance
- 1. How Chase Sapphire Reserve® lounge access works
- What is an overdraft fee?
- Does car insurance cover a stolen car?
- Front-end and back-end DTI
- Why mortgage rates change every day
- A 'beater' truck and a fat 401(k)
- Who can set up a Robinhood IRA?
- Why you need a savings account
- Who needs to get an EIN?
- What is the 50/30/20 rule?
- What’s the purpose of a budget?
- Credit freeze vs. lock
- Compare car insurance rates by age
- How employee stock options work
- Apps most like Airbnb for cars
- Unlimited employee cards at no additional cost
- AAA life insurance
- 1. It’s possible to have a very high credit limit
- Evaluate your budget and spending
- Save aggressively
- Benefits of an energy-efficient home
- Does closing a credit card hurt your credit?
- Top credit cards you can use instantly after approval
- 1. Personalized floor coverings
- Types of USDA loans
- 20 high-dividend stocks
- Key features of Deserve's Digital First Card
- Who qualifies for the qualified business income deduction?
- How will the Student Aid Index be calculated?
- 5 steps to get preapproved for a home loan
- What to know before getting a Marriott credit card
- Easier path to elite status
- 1. The card you get depends on your membership tier
- Marriott elite status
- What does Early Warning Services do?
- Types of business capital
- Where Progressive stands out
- Straightforward rewards
- What else you need to know about the Hyatt Guest of Honor Globalist Benefit
- 22 popular tax deductions and tax breaks
- ASPCA: Best pet insurance for broad coverage
- Credit cards are safer to carry and use
- Best small-cap stocks, ordered by one-year performance
- You can get the best rates on financial products
- What does a virtual assistant do?
- How to get Upwork jobs
- Online vs. in-person loan applications: 5 questions to ask
- How does a home equity loan work?
- Delta SkyMiles
- Mistake No. 1: I used it outside Target — frequently
- Value investing defined
- Which income-driven repayment plan is best for you?
- Tax benefits of owning a home
- How to fill out a W-4
- Cheap car insurance
- How much IDR credit will I get?
- How the home sale tax exemption works
- 2. ABLE accounts
- Where Amica stands out
- YNAB, for hands-on zero-based budgeting
- 1. The annual fee is ridiculous
- Gather key information about your current loan
- 2. Your card has expired
- Does Zelle report to the IRS?
- Compare Roth 401(k) vs. traditional 401(k)
- 2. Getting just one rate quote
- USAA® Rate Advantage Visa Platinum® Card
- Start with your servicer
- 3 steps to see if changing CDs is worth it
- Best for availability and locations: Holiday Inn Express
- Common IRS audit triggers
- A closer look at Alaska credit card offers
- How much is the child tax credit worth?
- What are dividend stocks and why buy them?
- Work out how much of your income should go to rent with the 50/30/20 rule
- Where Lemonade stands out
- Features
- Federal student loan limits
- What happens next
- Advantages and disadvantages of reverse mortgages
- Ability
- Before the pause: Copy records and check your PSLF status
- Does spending more money build credit faster?
- NerdWallet's car insurance estimator
- The best home insurance companies of 2024
- Better redemption options
- How put options work
- Who is a qualifying child?
- When is the 2024 tax extension deadline?
- How an HSA works
- Chase College Checking℠: $100 bonus
- Best affordable homeowners insurance in Georgia: Auto-Owners
- Best place to exchange currency: Your bank or credit union
- How many Instagram followers do you need to make money?
- How tax-deductible donations work
- How to open a backdoor Roth IRA
- What you need to know about savings accounts
- Refinance to a longer term
- 2. Confirm the check amount is within mobile deposit limits
- Frugal shopping tips
- How to apply for a solar loan
- 2. Use money tips to accelerate your savings
- When to use a credit freeze
- How to convert American miles to dollars (calculator)
- Savings bond calculator
- How SAVE differs from other student loan repayment plans
- Avoid bounced checks with overdraft protection
- 2. Cash management accounts
- Consider moving or downsizing
- How to start a vending machine business: A step-by-step guide
- What happened to gas prices in March?
- What types of accounts can be linked for overdraft protection?
- Which one is important to know for savings accounts?
- 1. Brigit: Best for budgeting tools
- Cheap(er) cell phone plans from Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T
- Best-performing growth stocks
- A new card didn’t stop the fraud
- State minimum wages in 2024
- What UAW President Shawn Fain is saying
- Identifying wants
- The wrong time to ask for a credit limit increase
- How voluntary repossession affects your credit and finances
- 2. Write your address in the purchaser section
- Understanding the stock market
- What payments are subject to backup withholding?
- How LLCs pay income taxes
- What’s being done to improve sustainability?
- Personalized versus average interest rates
- What does Delta travel insurance cover?
- Best credit union personal loans for 2024
- 2. Expect to pay a few late fees and a lot of interest
- 3. Certificates of deposit
- How to choose a brokerage account provider
- 2. Search for scholarships
- Are auto loan interest rates rising?
- Is there a Zelle tax loophole?
- Who can get down payment assistance?
- What does liability insurance cover?
- Which is best for you?
- How to invest money
- Airlines that service DFW
- QuickBooks Self-Employed pricing
- Holiday weekends
- 2. Shop for a loan
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- 2. Better showerheads
- Grace period
- 2. Sit by the fire at the Grand Californian Hotel Lobby
- How the annual gift tax exclusion works
- How do reverse mortgages work?
- 2. Check on your diversification
- Jumbo loan requirements
- February
- You may choose to keep working
- How do JetBlue TrueBlue points compare to other airlines?
- What information does Early Warning collect?
- Should you choose postpaid or prepaid?
- Why do people invest in cryptocurrencies?
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Changes at a glance
- Where Progressive falls short
- New York state first-time home buyer programs
- 2. AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
- What may have to change
- Step 2: Pre-qualify and compare offers
- How to get Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- 3. Endorse the check
- How does a housing co-op work?
- Where Amica falls short
- 2. 5% back doesn't apply to gas (seriously)
- Current car loan information you will need
- A short intro APR on purchases
- AAA life insurance policies
- Apply for a passport in person at USPS
- Avoid lifestyle creep
- Where Lemonade falls short
- Are paid surveys worth it?
- What credit score do you need for the best mortgage rate?
- Investing for income: Dividend stocks vs. dividend funds
- Advantages of using cash
- What is "qualified business income"?
- How to get homeowners insurance after a non-renewal
- Card earnings details
- Potential for unintended debt
- The pros and cons of a life insurance trust
- Preapproval is not the same as pre-qualification
- Find a private student loan
- Speeding tickets and car insurance rates
- How food prices have changed over time
- PHFA first-time home buyer loan programs
- Black-owned banking institutions we’ve reviewed
- How are business credit scores calculated?
- How tax extensions work
- 3. Include your account number if you're paying a bill
- When should you refinance government loans?
- Debt consolidation calculator
- How do you become an accredited investor?
- Vandalism and theft of personal property
- How to monetize your Instagram with fewer followers
- How the standard deduction works
- VA home loan eligibility
- Other solar panel financing options
- Why is budgeting important?
- How do American miles compare to other airlines?
- Does the payment network matter?
- Pay off high-interest loans first
- 2. Making bill payments isn’t straightforward
- Contact your servicer
- 3. Stylish cabinet hardware
- How to determine how much car you can afford
- Example of the difference between APY and interest rate
- How much is YouTube Music?
- How to take advantage of the sales tax deduction
- How to protect yourself
- Time
- 14 business startup costs to plan for
- Best homeowners insurance companies: Pros and cons
- Does raising the minimum wage cause inflation?
- Who opposes the UAW’s efforts
- What’s important for consumers to know about Early Warning Services?
- How Progressive home insurance works
- Introductory incentives
- Rack up rewards points
- Credit cards earn easy rewards
- Why small-cap stocks are risky
- Ways to protect your 740 credit score
- How much do virtual assistants make?
- You want better cash-back rewards
- Other alternatives to Mint
- 2. There are Chase Sapphire lounges in Hong Kong, Boston and New York, with more to come
- Overdraft protection
- Pros of inbound marketing
- Korean SkyPass
- Mailchimp: Best email marketing software
- How severely is credit card fraud punished?
- Historical national rates
- Growth investing defined
- Certificates of deposit
- Travel and entertainment benefits
- What kind of accounts and investments are available?
- Why is a business budget important?
- Savings accounts with strong APYs can help your money grow
- Apply for mortgage forbearance
- Why buy long-term care insurance?
- How to open the Apple high-yield savings account
- State availability
- For people with Medicare
- How to use average car interest rates
- 2. You’ll earn points, but no bonus
- How to shop for homeowners insurance
- 3. You made a typo
- The top 7 dividend aristocrats list
- What’s the value when transferring to Capital One partners?
- Decide where to complain
- How much rent can you afford?
- How to get a Companion Pass faster
- Qualifying for a USDA-guaranteed mortgage
- Cards to consider despite their balance transfer fees
- The application process
- How to trade options in four steps
- How is the Student Aid Index used?
- Carrying a balance is costly
- How to estimate car insurance costs
- How much could you save?
- Make fraudsters work harder
- 2. Make a larger down payment
- When to use Membership Rewards points at Amazon
- AmEx Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Deciding factors
- Recent changes to food costs
- What are the disadvantages of a 10-year ARM?
- How to know who your mortgage servicer is
- How it compares to traditional credit cards
- 2. Set financial priorities
- Calculate your DTI
- Another money-change option: online currency converters
- It’s not all about choice
- Who qualifies for the home sales tax exclusion?
- Episode transcript
- 3. Be prepared to lose your rewards
- 4. Custodial brokerage account
- 3. Choose an affordable school
- 3. Keep down payment savings in the right account
- How much is condo insurance in your city?
- Travel benefits
- 3. Not checking credit reports and correcting errors
- 3. High-yield money market accounts (MMAs)
- Requirements: Who qualifies for the child tax credit?
- Dividend vs. growth stocks
- Why are gas prices going up?
- Can you use a credit card for overdraft protection?
- Two kinds of reverse mortgages
- Understanding biotech ETF holdings
- 4 ways to avoid overdraft fees
- You may want to save for in-home care
- How to find growth stocks
- 2. It's a solid choice for everyday use
- Buying a put option
- How to get car insurance quotes
- 4. Sign the bottom where it says 'purchaser’s signature'
- HSA-eligible expenses
- Should I choose a home equity loan or a HELOC?
- How to calculate APY
- Top rental increases and decreases in the U.S.
- How your credit score affects your rate
- What isn't covered by Delta travel insurance?
- How to pack to avoid the check-in counter completely
- How do you start a budget?
- 3. You'll save 5 cents per gallon on gas
- Include health care in your savings goal
- What makes an energy-efficient home different?
- QuickBooks Desktop pricing
- 3. Determine other ownership costs
- Time your Social Security benefits
- 4. Smart-home gadgets
- State availability
- APY to interest rate calculator
- Types of credit
- Long story: It's complicated
- During the pause: Most borrowers should keep making payments
- What to do instead
- 3. Balance stocks, bonds and your time frame
- March
- How has the JetBlue points value changed over time?
- Sky Club access rules announced
- How to save on insurance after a speeding ticket
- Do all workers earn at least the minimum wage?
- Using Bonvoy credit cards
- List of Black-owned banks, credit unions and fintechs by state
- How to avoid voluntary repossession
- When debt consolidation is a smart move
- Flight availability
- Stock trading information
- Chase Secure Banking℠: $100 bonus
- How to prevent car theft
- Does homeowners insurance cover a roof replacement?
- How do you know if you’re subject to backup withholding?
- Get a secured credit card
- How to calculate debt-to-income ratio for a mortgage
- 5 ways to make money on Instagram
- Backdoor Roth IRA rules
- Cons of a condo vs. a house
- 4. Open the mobile deposit function in your bank app
- How to apply for an employer identification number
- How to benefit from the account adjustment
- Frugal entertainment tips
- How to apply for a VA home loan
- When to use a credit lock
- 2. Decide how much to invest
- When is the best time to use American miles?
- How to find down payment assistance programs
- Pay off small loans first
- 3% foreign transaction fee
- 3. Ongoing APR is fixed, and there's an intro rate on balance transfers
- DFW airport terminals
- All year
- When should I close my credit card?
- How lenders view your DTI ratio
- Average daily balance
- 2. Empower: Best for fast cash
- 2. Consider debt consolidation
- How to qualify for the QBI deduction
- How far in advance should I get preapproved for a mortgage?
- Find the best student loan for you
- Budgeting for both needs and wants
- Find nonprofit student loan assistance
- State availability
- The worst they can say is no. Shouldn’t I try?
- Why do lenders sell mortgage loans?
- Do personal credit scores affect business credit scores?
- Why small-cap stocks are mighty
- 3. Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card
- How to become a virtual assistant
- Can you refinance federal student loans?
- Overdraft fees by institution
- Cons of inbound marketing
- Preparing for what may be next
- Best homeowners insurance in Georgia for coverage: Openly
- California income tax deadlines and extensions
- Average interest checking account rate: 0.08%
- What about the new IDR plan?
- Best car insurance companies: Our winners
- How a savings account works: withdrawal limits
- Apply for loan modification
- 4. Think about ways to come up with the cash to get current
- 5. High-yield savings account
- Amica home insurance coverage
- When to exercise stock options
- I bonds calculator
- Best hotel for family travel: Holiday Inn
- How to claim the child tax credit
- How are dividends paid out?
- Do the math
- 3. Enjoy a tiki drink (or Dole Whip) at Trader Sam’s
- Is YouTube Premium worth it?
- How important is it to pay no balance transfer fee?
- Cheap cell phone plans from brands owned by the big three
- How does a life insurance trust work?
- 3. Consider paying points
- What should you do if you were denied a bank account because of an Early Warning report?
- Why is Bitcoin still popular?
- Will food prices go down in 2024?
- How to meet your monthly savings goal
- How to file a tax extension
- 5. Keep your receipt
- You're eyeing travel perks or a massive sign-up bonus
- Advantages of HSAs
- ANA Mileage Club
- Where to exchange currency outside the U.S.
- How growth and value investing overlap
- When you should lock your mortgage rate
- How to create a business budget in 6 steps
- Startup business grants from private companies and nonprofits
- Standard deduction 2023
- How to deposit funds into the Apple savings account
- 3. It offers highly specific perks
- Average condo insurance cost by coverage amount
- Input new refinanced car loan information
- 4. A hotel or rental car company has put a 'hold' on your card
- Dividend kings vs. aristocrats
- Why doesn’t Zelle send you a 1099?
- AAA life insurance rates
- 4. Making a down payment that's too small
- How much are Capital One miles worth?
- 5. Window flair
- Things to consider when using overdraft protection
- What to know if you take online surveys
- How mortgage rates can vary by credit score
- The bottom line
- Costs
- You'll (really) want to stay healthy
- Factors that affect the cost of car insurance
- How flexible are JetBlue points?
- Use the travel credit
- Why small-cap stocks are not that different
- 3. How to get into a Chase Sapphire lounge
- Why do you have to be an accredited investor?
- The cost of debt without a balance transfer
- 1. High-yield savings accounts
- 5. Take clear pictures of the check with your mobile device
- Getting a loan for a co-op
- CASH BACK CREDIT CARDS
- Goodbudget, for hands-on envelope budgeting
- What’s next?
- 4. Credit card points are separate from MySheetz Rewardz
- New sign-up bonuses
- How to apply for mortgage down payment assistance
- $0 annual fee
- Prioritize retirement over college
- USAA Cashback Rewards Plus American Express® Credit Card
- 4. Peer-to-peer lending
- 4. Find the right car for you
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Lemonade renters insurance coverage
- Gift tax limit 2024
- How to claim the sales tax deduction
- Am I eligible for a reverse mortgage?
- Is it a good deal?
- 3. But not all BJ's purchases earn extra rewards
- Do you need a family cell phone plan?
- How do streaming services fit into your budget?
- Travel-friendly features
- What are the advantages of a 10-year ARM?
- When voluntary repossession makes sense
- Glossary of overdraft terms
- Inbound marketing tips
- How to protect yourself from credit card fraud
- What special features does the Robinhood IRA have?
- How to find high-yield alternatives
- Pros and cons of VA home loans
- 4. Resist dipping into your other savings
- Treasury bond and note calculator
- It’s not only about taxes
- How to renew a passport with USPS
- 4. The card issuer provides a credit-building education program
- How to find an energy-efficient home
- Best hotel for business travel: Holiday Inn Express
- Tap home equity — cautiously
- Qualifying for a Single Family Housing Direct Home Loan
- Kids need an ID when flying internationally
- If you’re over the income limit
- 4. Consider buying at a discount
- Progressive home insurance coverage
- Why Black-owned banks matter
- Credit cards help you track spending
- How to get a home equity loan
- Delta international travel insurance cost
- Travel and shopping protections
- Eliminate mortgage insurance
- Frugal DIY project tips
- 6. Investing for teens
- 4. Use grants if you qualify
- Pay attention to the big picture
- Who is this card good for?
- QuickBooks Enterprise pricing
- How much should you spend on a mattress?
- 6 types of dividends
- What state has the highest gas prices?
- Factor in other costs
- Top 3 index funds for the Nasdaq-100
- 6. Brighter light fixtures
- Working YouTube Premium costs into your budget
- Private student loan limits
- How to choose a biotech ETF
- April
- Should you buy growth stocks?
- One downside to watch for
- What's next?
- How to contact your servicer
- What is a good business credit score?
- Bull markets vs. bear markets
- Chase Total Checking®: $300 bonus
- APR vs. APY: What’s the difference?
- Mistake No. 2: I maxed it out
- Keap: Best for dedicated support
- Do I have to pay California state tax?
- You must recertify your income and family size every year
- CD vs. high-yield savings account: At a glance
- Today’s rates for specific kinds of mortgages
- Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
- Standard deduction 2024 (taxes filed 2025)
- Most popular cash back card reviews
- 5. Make a plan to deal with the aftermath
- How to open a brokerage account
- For Medicaid beneficiaries
- 4. Get access to a personal advisor
- 5. You'll get more value combining MySheetz Rewardz with a general purpose card
- Average condo insurance cost by company
- 3. Open an investment account
- How has the value changed over time?
- How to invest in dividend aristocrats
- Does your DTI affect your credit score?
- 4. Eat at the Anaheim Packing District
- What does this mean for you?
- What else you need to know
- After the pause: Keep advocating for yourself
- 4. Take advantage of first-time home buyer programs
- Why is food so expensive?
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Changes at a glance
- Is it a good idea to consolidate credit cards?
- How to get overdraft fees waived
- Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
- Should you file a claim for roof damage?
- Reviewing the results
- How did we determine the value of Capital One miles?
- Run the numbers
- Write the complaint
- Benefits of staying as an IHG One Rewards Club member
- Additional child tax credit
- 7. Removable wallpaper
- Gift tax limit 2023
- 3. Work with your creditors
- How to invest in dividend stocks
- National grant programs open to Colorado businesses
- Cheap cell phone plans from brands that resell network service
- What states are increasing minimum wages in 2024?
- Consider your legal options
- Redeem points for travel through Chase
- Best homeowners insurance in Georgia for consumer experience: American Family and Nationwide
- Where to avoid exchanging currency
- Rent vs. inflation
- Book with money and miles
- Step 3: Choose your lender and loan
- W-4 form 2024
- How much to keep in your savings account
- 6. Confirm the check details and complete the deposit
- Get more help with monthly budget planning
- Other cash back card reviews
- Discounts
- 5. Get help with saving for a down payment
- 5. There's been a suspicious purchase
- So, should you switch to Zelle?
- 5. Online savings accounts
- Mattress-buying tips
- Alternatives to canceling a credit card
- 5. Contact the seller or visit a dealership
- How to build your credit
- 3. EarnIn: Best for large advances
- How to buy biotech ETFs
- Types of life insurance trusts
- How much car insurance you need
- How did we determine value?
- 4. The cards travel well
- Embrace: Best pet insurance for many ways to save
- 4. Chime Secured Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
- How to refinance federal student loans
- How does a debt consolidation loan work?
- Additional functionality
- How much of your fee goes to Upwork?
- Get a credit-builder product or a secured loan
- Investing in growth and value stocks
- How to open a savings account or CD
- How do balance transfers work?
- Tax benefit of selling a home
- Facing the co-op board
- How long-term care insurance works
- 5. Appearances matter
- How flexible are American miles?
- Treasury bills calculator
- Is it worth applying for the Bank of America® Platinum Plus® Mastercard® Business card?
- AAA customer complaints and satisfaction
- 5. Not looking for first-time home buyer programs
- 5. The website may not provide the information you need
- How to understand DTI ratio
- 8. Fresh paint
- Interest rate
- 5. Pay down debt, save for emergencies
- Discounts
- Protections: Shopping and travel benefits
- 4. What is the most affordable way to get access to Sapphire Lounges from Chase?
- Can nonaccredited investors invest?
- Are home equity loans a good idea?
- What is a good DTI ratio?
- Skip currency exchange: Use a credit or debit card
- Is a backdoor Roth IRA worth it?
- Why you might still book rental cars in advance
- 7. Keep the check until it's processed
- 7. Roth IRA
- 5. Get a work-study job
- Moving forward
- Expedited passport services
- Texas city-specific business grants
- What state has the lowest gas prices?
- Look for savings
- How the lifetime gift tax exclusion works
- Mortgages where credit score matters less
- How the qualified business income deduction works
- Pros and cons of jumbo loans
- May
- How to handle these bills
- 5. There are consequences if you change your membership level or cancel
- How does cryptocurrency work?
- How to qualify for Hyatt Globalist
- Who is a qualifying relative?
- How to start a painting business: The basics
- Do debt consolidation loans hurt your credit?
- Booking Southwest flights to the Caribbean
- Compare the best savings and money market accounts
- How to stop backup withholding and get credit for it
- What is California's standard deduction?
- LLC payroll taxes
- Average certificate of deposit rate: 1.81% for one-year CDs
- Income-driven repayment disadvantages
- Is Delta trip protection worth it?
- What are fleet cards?
- Standard deduction for those 65 or older
- Frugal home expenses tips
- What is the VA loan limit?
- Dividend aristocrats ETFs
- More about AAA
- Manage your expectations
- Alternatives to QuickBooks
- Change your repayment plan
- Affording home upgrades
- What not to do
- Consumer complaints
- 5. Treasure hunt for antiques in Old Towne Orange
- When a general travel credit card is a better fit
- 5. Shop around with multiple lenders
- Servicing changes are underway
- What plans are best for seniors?
- Getaround pricing
- How tax extensions work if you owe taxes
- Stock market crash vs. correction
- How compound interest works
- Credit union personal loan rates
- How to find the 2024 W-4
- Alternatives to savings accounts
- 2. Certificates of deposit
- What does a condo insurance rate include?
- When to expect your child tax credit refund
- The most popular surveys for cash apps
- Minimum wage increases
- Buying a put option vs. short selling
- 3. Get disability and life insurance
- Where to find virtual assistant jobs
- When debt consolidation isn't worth it
- Disadvantages of HSAs
- Chase Private Client Checking℠: Up to $3,000 bonus offer
- Constant Contact: Best for unlimited user access
- Common misconceptions
- 8. Special needs trust
- Consumer complaints
- Brokerage accounts are taxable accounts
- 6. Work for an employer that pays for college
- 4. Pick an investment strategy
- 6. Inspect and test-drive the car, if applicable
- Ways to lower your DTI ratio
- Citi Custom Cash® Card
- Consumer experience
- Ways to get the best USDA mortgage rates
- 4. Seek help through debt relief
- Growth stocks vs. dividend stocks
- Avoid the student loan scammers
- Transfer points for more value
- Credit cards help build credit
- Compare the best CD accounts
- How to file a claim for roof damage
- What part of my income gets taxed by California?
- IDR waiver will count past payments toward forgiveness
- What to look for in a balance transfer card
- Step 4: Gather loan documents
- The bottom line
- How do fleet cards work?
- Co-ops vs. condos: Which is better?
- 6. Your card has been exposed to a threat
- How did we determine the value of American miles?
- Track your USPS renewal passport process
- 6. High-yield checking accounts
- 6. Sample beers at Brewery X
- Travel ID requirements for kids recapped
- Why some cars cost more to insure
- Medallion Qualifying Miles rollovers
- 6. Consider alternative types of mortgages
- What is the median household income in the U.S.?
- Is it time for you to switch to a better plan?
- How are cryptocurrencies created?
- Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club
- 5. Navy Federal Credit Union® More Rewards American Express® Credit Card
- 5. Other cards with airport lounge access
- How do I grow my home's equity?
- Maximum and average DTI ratios by mortgage type
- Claiming tax-deductible donations on your tax return
- Use miles to book hotels
- EveryDollar, for simple zero-based budgeting
- Preferred Cash Rewards Visa® Signature Credit Card
- 3 tips to control central air conditioning installation costs
- 4. Varo: Best for existing bank customers
- Things to consider
- How are food prices tracked?
- Consumer experience
- Do you have to pay tolls in a rental car?
- How tax extensions work if you're due a refund
- Bottom line
- Mistake No. 3: I used retirement money to pay it off
- Use a co-signer
- It’s more expensive to rent than ever before
- Do I have to update my W-4 every year?
- Do you ever need to change your EIN?
- Refinancing a VA home loan
- TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS
- Five steps to opening an investment account for your kid
- Consumer experience
- For the uninsured
- Who qualifies for the SAVE plan?
- Bottom Line
- 6. Ignoring VA, USDA and FHA loan programs
- What else to consider
- 2024 child tax credit news update
- Communication is key
- Days in the cycle
- 2024 lifetime gift tax exemption
- June
- How to do well on Upwork
- Where can you get the best loan?
- Is APY variable?
- Compare the best checking accounts
- How to apply for income-driven repayment
- 3. Bonds
- How to reduce your condo insurance cost
- Ex-dividend dates
- Where does an IRS audit take place?
- How are gas prices determined?
- How to build your credit score
- Million Miler changes
- When not to use a credit card
- The importance of diversification
- Next steps
- Chase checking account referrals: Up to $500 bonus
- Full list of the best homeowners insurance in Georgia
- Am I a resident for California state tax purposes?
- LLC self-employment taxes
- How to get a loan from a credit union
- Reconsideration for PSLF applications
- What if I’m enrolled in Public Service Loan Forgiveness?
- Calculating capital gains tax on a home sale
- 7. Determine which warranties are right for you
- 7. Sample boysenberry boba and fried chicken at the California Marketplace at Knott's Berry Farm
- What to do if you're unhappy with your servicer
- Why are there so many kinds of cryptocurrency?
- Lodge a student loan complaint
- The bottom line
- How many tax extensions can you file?
- Last-minute travel deals, recapped
- Exchange frequently? Consider a multicurrency account
- Upgrade to first class
- Is Delta trip protection worth it?
- Standard deduction for dependents
- 7. Take out federal loans if you have to
- How to safely cancel a credit card
- Why insurance companies reward smart-home devices
- Getaround insurance
- Is Upwork the right freelance marketplace for you?
- Compare the best banks, credit unions and cash management accounts
- Zoho CRM: Best overall CRM software
- Become an authorized user
- How did rent get so expensive?
- How to adjust your Form W-4
- Where to find the best savings accounts
- Types of VA home loans
- General-purpose travel card reviews
- Brokerage accounts vs. IRA
- 7. Not knowing whether to pay discount points
- How to evaluate dividends
- Finding a car you can afford
- How to switch plans and keep your number
- Jumbo loans and conforming loan limits
- How to save on car insurance
- Rental car tolls, recapped
- Is it worth going to a tax preparer?
- Why do I need a business credit score?
- 6. PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card
- How much does a tax extension cost?
- Should you apply for a personal loan online or in person?
- How to prevent roof leaks
- Average money market account rate: 0.66%
- What if you lose your EIN?
- 5. Understand your investment options
- Should you exercise early?
- What kind of liability insurance do I need?
- Other ways to invest in racial justice
- What's next?
- Lemonade vs. competitors
- Who pays the gift tax?
- July
- Which type of life insurance should I put in a trust?
- New choice benefits for SkyMiles elites
- Progressive vs. competitors
- Interest-based passive income ideas
- How much does homeowners insurance cost in Georgia?
- LLC sales taxes
- Charitable contributions 2023
- Request a free stopover
- Step 5: Submit your application and get funded
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
- Cost of long-term care insurance
- Amica vs. competitors
- How to apply for the SAVE plan
- How to finance central air installation
- 8. Don your dirndl at Old World Village
- 5. Dave: Best for repayment flexibility
- 5. Lower your living expenses
- Are these the best dividend stocks?
- Know your options
- Find local conforming loan limits
- Tax extensions for overseas taxpayers and military members
- Checking in for your Southwest Caribbean flight
- Compare the best bank accounts for students and kids
- The best place to exchange currency at the end of your trip
- Can’t afford income-driven repayment?
- Credit union vs. online lender
- Fleet fuel cards: benefits and drawbacks
- When can't you take the standard deduction?
- Other ways to sell clothes online
- The complete list of dividend aristocrats
- 8. Negotiate the best price
- Which airlines are partnered with Alaska Airlines?
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Do you pay taxes when you receive a gift?
- Who doesn't count as a tax dependent?
- How do I get my business credit score?
- Max out the food delivery perks
- Chase Business Complete Checking℠: $400 bonus offer
- How many times can you use a VA home loan?
- 8. Emptying your savings
- Types of gas
- Should you buy smart-home devices?
- How to find the right Colorado small-business grant for you
- Ways to get the best jumbo mortgage rates
- The bottom line
- Summary of the best banks and credit unions of 2024
- Mistake No. 4: I cut up the credit card and stopped using it
- Other ways to use your Alaska Airlines miles
- Will you owe capital gains taxes on your home sale?
- Empower Personal Dashboard, for tracking wealth and spending
- How much money can you make on YouTube?
- Consequences of a child tax credit error
- Are cryptocurrencies financial securities, like stocks?
- What's the difference between a CPA and a tax preparer?
- 7. State Farm® Premier Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card
- Currency exchange: Frequently asked questions
- How will Robinhood make money from its IRAs?
- 8. Borrow private loans as a last resort
- When is the SAVE plan available?
- 9. Ride the Giant Wheel at the Irvine Spectrum
- Is the gift tax deductible?
- August
- Turo vs Getaround: which is better?
- Tax breaks and credits for claiming a tax dependent
- Avoid other redemption options
- Figo: Best pet insurance for cats
- What happens after you file a tax extension?
- Average cost of homeowners insurance in Georgia by city
- LLC tax forms and deadlines
- How much is my 2023 standard deduction?
- How do I buy liability insurance?
- USAA Rewards™ American Express® Credit Card
- Pricing
- How to start a painting business: The financials
- Get credit for the bills you pay
- Tax advantages of buying long-term care insurance
- How to avoid capital gains tax on home sales
- Airline credit card reviews
- How to sell clothes online
- Important considerations when opening a Roth IRA
- 9. Maximize trade-in value, if applicable
- How much is the gift tax rate?
- 6. MoneyLion: Best for existing customers
- More about the card
- What to look for in marketing software
- The difference between interest rate and APY
- DTI isn't a full measure of affordability
- If you’re choosing between Holiday Inn vs. Holiday Inn Express
- Choose the best Alaska credit card offer for you
- State child tax credits
- 10. Smell the roses at Roger’s Gardens
- Capitalize on other travel perks
- How do you file a state tax extension?
- Earn points faster with a credit card
- What to know about Chase checking account bonuses
- The cheapest home insurance in Georgia
- Next steps
- Fuel card vs. business gas credit card
- Compare insurance rates by driver history
- If you’re looking for a car-sharing platform
- 9. Applying for credit before the sale is final
- Options trading examples
- Is Getaround worth it?
- After deciding
- Additional resources for people previously convicted of a felony
- Earn an audience, and earn more in the long run
- Why are California gas prices so high?
- September
- Selling a put option
- 8. Upgrade Triple Cash Rewards Visa®
- Upcoming Sapphire Reserve lounges, recapped
- The bottom line
- How much does liability insurance cost?
- 10. Make the purchase
- What is the $500 credit for other dependents (ODC)?
- Are dividends taxed?
- Frequently asked questions
- Pros and cons of cryptocurrency
- Team it with a different card
- LLC tax tips for business owners
- Who is most likely to rent?
- One-time IDR account adjustment for PSLF borrowers
- 2023 vs. 2024 standard deduction
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
- Common gift tax return triggers
- If you’re considering a Marriott credit card ...
- What to know about Georgia homeowners insurance
- Practice good credit habits
- California state tax credits
- If your DTI is high
- How to buy long-term care insurance
- Hotel credit card reviews
- What is credit card consolidation?
- Child tax credit vs. child and dependent care credit
- Next steps
- 7. SoLo Funds: Best for peer-to-peer cash advances
- Which states have tax deadline extensions?
- W-4 calculator
- 4. Money market funds
- Small-business incubator programs
- Other ways to make money
- National grant programs available to Texas small businesses
- More resources on investing
- The bottom line
- If you want to fly Southwest to the Caribbean
- How the FDIC calculates national rates
- When to claim the standard deduction
- How taxes on real estate, rental, and investment sales work
- PocketGuard, for a simplified budgeting snapshot
- Other changes to income-driven repayment in the works
- October
- The bottom line
- The bottom line on the new Robinhood IRA
- Does your business need a fleet fuel card?
- Next steps
- DFW airport transportation
- How does credit card consolidation work?
- Learn from and work with Black financial professionals
- Pros and cons
- Other cards with unique features
- Are Chase bank promotions worth it?
- U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card
- Financing your franchise
- 10. Shopping for a house before a mortgage
- Where should you open your investment account?
- Does the president control gas prices?
- Why trade options?
- Rent vs. income
- What else to know about Form W-4
- A closer look at the best way to buy flight tickets
- What to know before shopping for car insurance quotes.
- How to get business capital
- Reconsideration for rejected PSLF applications
- Understanding state 'partnership' plans
- Is there an over-55 home sale exemption?
- Credit cards for other travel brands
- USAA Rewards™ Visa® Signature Credit Card
- 8. Klover: Best for no-fee advances
- Check your credit scores and reports
- 5. Mutual funds
- November
- Cryptocurrency legal and tax issues
- What are tax deductions?
- Alternatives to startup business grants
- Is consolidating credit card debt a good idea?
- How does the Israel-Hamas war affect gas prices?
- The bottom line
- Additional tips for making money on TikTok
- How to redeem rewards on the Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- The bottom line
- Final thoughts on the best flight booking site
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
- Call vs. put options
- Best stocks for beginners
- Chase Sapphire Reserve vs. AmEx Platinum: Minor features to consider
- 11. Underestimating the costs of homeownership
- Can I still use my credit card after debt consolidation?
- 6. Index funds
- Tips to finding the right grant program for your small business
- Your decision: Is cryptocurrency a good investment?
- MetLife: Best pet insurance for dogs
- Don't qualify for PSLF? You have other options for relief
- OTHER REWARDS CREDIT CARDS
- Honeydue, for budgeting with a partner
- Pros and cons of loan apps
- December
- Industry franchise guides
- Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner
- How to track your California state refund
- The four options market participants and their incentives
- Most popular
- The bottom line on investing in stocks
- Looking for more insurance in Georgia?
- Prime Visa
- Cheapest car insurance by state
- 12. Miscalculating repair and renovation costs
- Advantages of put options
- What are tax write-offs?
- Others
- Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card
- California state sales tax
- How to make money from home
- Budgeting resources from NerdWallet
- How do you claim tax deductions?
- 7. Exchange-traded funds
- How to save on startup costs
- Who might prefer AmEx Platinum over Chase Sapphire Reserve
- 5 things to know about California state tax
- Airport hotels at DFW
- How to get cheap car insurance
- Are cash advance apps payday lenders?
- BALANCE TRANSFER AND 0% CREDIT CARDS
- Other ways to earn money
- Airport security at DFW
- Methodology to identify the best budget apps
- Other notable options
- Other home insurance companies to consider
- 8. Stocks
- Are apps like DailyPay and Payactiv cash advance apps?
- First-time home buyer programs near Pennsylvania
- Risks of getting cheap auto insurance
- Target Circle™ Credit Card
- Pros and cons of starting a vending machine business
- Nationwide: Best pet insurance for exotic pets
- Major issuers and their policies on instant credit access
- Alternatives to cash advance apps
- How to get the cheapest car insurance quote possible
- National first-time home buyer programs
- Customs at DFW
- First-time home buyer programs near New York
- STORE AND RETAILER BRAND CREDIT CARDS
- Booking flights, recapped
- Frequently asked questions
- DFW airport guide recapped
- How to make money offline
- Most popular retailer brand credit cards
- National first-time home buyer programs
- 9. Alternative investments
- Other retailer brand credit cards
- Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard®
- Cash advance app star rating methodology
- 10. Cryptocurrency
- Other ways to save money
- CREDIT BUILDER CREDIT CARDS
- Pets Best: Best pet insurance for flexible plans
- Full list of the best car insurance companies
- How to compare car insurance rates
- Secured credit card reviews
- 11. Real estate
- Best car insurance companies by state
- PlayStation Visa Credit Card
- Unsecured credit builder card reviews
- How to start a profitable business
- How to choose the best investments in 2024
- How to find the best car insurance
- COLLEGE STUDENT CREDIT CARDS
- Spot: Best pet insurance for straightforward waiting periods
- Best Buy credit cards
- How to find the best home insurance policy in five common scenarios
- SMALL BUSINESS CREDIT CARDS
- Most popular small business card reviews
- Other small business card reviews
- Xbox Mastercard
- DEFUNCT OR UNAVAILABLE CREDIT CARDS
- How to choose an insurance company
- How much is pet insurance?
- How to compare homeowners insurance
- Watch out for making money scams
- How to find the best dog insurance
- How to find the best cat insurance
- Find the best homeowners insurance in your state
- How we ranked the best homeowners insurance companies
- How to compare pet insurance companies
- How we ranked the best pet insurance companies
The process of applying for a personal loan may feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin or what you need.
Below are five steps and common questions to help you through the process of choosing and applying for the best personal loan for your financial situation.
Step 1: Check your credit
Start the process by checking your credit. The interest rate and loan amount you receive depend a lot on your credit score, so reviewing your credit report lets you spot and fix any errors — like a falsely reported late payment — and strengthen your score before applying for a personal loan.
How does my credit score impact personal loan offers?
Good- or excellent-credit borrowers (those with scores of 690 or above) typically receive lower rates and have a wider group of lenders to choose from. On the other hand, bad- and fair-credit borrowers (scores below 690) may have fewer options and receive higher interest rates.
How do I see my credit score for free?
You can get a free credit score and credit report with NerdWallet. You can also request free credit reports directly from the three major credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Step 2: Pre-qualify and compare offers
Pre-qualifying for a personal loan gives you a preview of estimated rates, monthly payments and terms before you submit a formal application. Many lenders allow prospective borrowers to pre-qualify on their websites.
Will pre-qualifying affect my credit score?
No, pre-qualifying for a personal loan requires a soft inquiry, which doesn’t affect your credit score.
What do I need to pre-qualify for a personal loan?
To pre-qualify, you’ll need to submit information such as:
Loan purpose. Unsecured personal loans can be used for almost anything, and most lenders ask how you intend to use the money.
Requested loan amount. Lenders typically offer personal loans from $1,000 to $50,000.
Preferred loan term. Personal loans usually have repayment terms from two to seven years.
Personal and financial information. This could include your name, email address, date of birth, address, income and Social Security number.
If you’re unable to pre-qualify for a loan on your own, consider a co-signed or joint loan. Adding someone with a strong credit score and higher income can help you get approved and lower your rate. But keep in mind that a co-borrower or co-signer will be required to make loan payments if you fail to.
How long will it take to pre-qualify?
Pre-qualifying can take up to a few minutes after you submit your information. If you qualify for a loan offer, the lender will show you potential rates and terms to choose from.
Step 3: Choose your lender and loan
The best personal loan is usually the most affordable one. Carefully consider things like APR, monthly payments and fees before you accept an offer.
APR: The annual percentage rate is the total cost of borrowing and includes your interest rate and all additional fees. The lower the APR, the lower the cost of the loan.
Loan term: The loan term is how long you will be paying off the loan. A longer term can lower your monthly payments, but you’ll end up paying more in total interest than you would with a shorter-term loan.
Fees: Some lenders charge an origination fee, which is usually 1% to 10% of the loan amount. This fee increases your APR and a lender may take it upfront, effectively lowering your total loan amount.
Monthly payments: Check the monthly payment and make sure that you can comfortably afford the loan in your budget.
Features and benefits: Identify features that are important to you, like flexible payment options, help with building your credit or direct payment to creditors if you’re consolidating debt.
Personal loans from our partners
on SoFi
SoFi
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.99- 29.99%
$5K- $100K
on SoFi
on Avant
Avant
4.0
NerdWallet rating4.0
NerdWallet rating9.95- 35.99%
$2K- $35K
on Avant
on Best Egg
Best Egg
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating8.99- 35.99%
$2K- $50K
on Best Egg
on Discover
Discover
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating7.99- 24.99%
$2.5K- $40K
on Discover
on Upgrade
Upgrade
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.49- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upgrade
on Upstart
Upstart
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.8- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upstart
on SoFi
SoFi
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.99- 29.99%
$5K- $100K
on SoFi
on Avant
Avant
4.0
NerdWallet rating4.0
NerdWallet rating9.95- 35.99%
$2K- $35K
on Avant
on Best Egg
Best Egg
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating8.99- 35.99%
$2K- $50K
on Best Egg
on Discover
Discover
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating7.99- 24.99%
$2.5K- $40K
on Discover
on Upgrade
Upgrade
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.49- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upgrade
on LightStream
LightStream
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.49- 25.49%
$5K- $100K
on LightStream
on SoFi
SoFi
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.99- 29.99%
$5K- $100K
on SoFi
on Avant
Avant
4.0
NerdWallet rating4.0
NerdWallet rating9.95- 35.99%
$2K- $35K
on Avant
on Best Egg
Best Egg
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating8.99- 35.99%
$2K- $50K
on Best Egg
on Discover
Discover
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating7.99- 24.99%
$2.5K- $40K
on Discover
on Upgrade
Upgrade
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.49- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upgrade
on OneMain Financial
OneMain Financial
3.5
NerdWallet rating3.5
NerdWallet rating18.0- 35.99%
$1.5K- $20K
on OneMain Financial
on LightStream
LightStream
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.49- 25.49%
$5K- $100K
on LightStream
on Avant
Avant
4.0
NerdWallet rating4.0
NerdWallet rating9.95- 35.99%
$2K- $35K
on Avant
on SoFi
SoFi
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.99- 29.99%
$5K- $100K
on SoFi
on Best Egg
Best Egg
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating8.99- 35.99%
$2K- $50K
on Best Egg
on Upstart
Upstart
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.8- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upstart
on Upgrade
Upgrade
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.49- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upgrade
on SoFi
SoFi
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating8.99- 29.99%
$5K- $100K
on SoFi
on Avant
Avant
4.0
NerdWallet rating4.0
NerdWallet rating9.95- 35.99%
$2K- $35K
on Avant
on Best Egg
Best Egg
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating8.99- 35.99%
$2K- $50K
on Best Egg
on Discover
Discover
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating7.99- 24.99%
$2.5K- $40K
on Discover
on LightStream
LightStream
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.49- 25.49%
$5K- $100K
on LightStream
on Upstart
Upstart
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating7.8- 35.99%
$1K- $50K
on Upstart
Step 4: Gather loan documents
Once you’ve chosen a loan with the rate, term and features that best fit your needs, it’s time to complete the application. Depending on the lender, you may apply for the loan online or in person.
What do I need for my loan application?
You’ll need to provide some or all of the following:
Proof of identity, including a government-issued ID or driver’s license.
Proof of address, including a recent utility bill or lease agreement.
Proof of employment status.
Income details, including bank statements or pay stubs, and proof of additional income like retirement, alimony or child support.
Social Security number if it wasn’t submitted during pre-qualification.
If you have a co-borrower on your personal loan application, they will need to submit similar documents to verify their identity, address and income details.
» MORE: Requirements for a personal loan
Step 5: Submit your application and get funded
Submitting a formal loan application triggers a hard credit inquiry. This inquiry will shave up to five points off your score and remain on your credit report for two years.
If everything checks out, you could get same-day loan approval. If the lender requests additional documents, approval may take longer.
After you are approved, carefully read and sign the loan agreement, which lays out the loan amount, APR and terms. The lender will disburse funds once the loan agreement has been signed.
If a lender does not approve your loan application, it is required to tell you the reason for the denial or to inform you of your right to seek out that information. Knowing why your application was declined can help you improve your chances of future loan approval.
How quickly you receive the money will likely depend on the type of lender you choose. Many online lenders can provide same- or next-day funding, while some banks and credit unions may take up to a week.
» MORE: Best lenders for quick cash
Once you receive funding, expect your first loan payment to be due within 30 days. If you’ve opted into automatic payments, the funds will be debited from the bank account you provided. Add your monthly payment amount to your budget to manage your debt repayment.
on NerdWallet
on NerdWallet