2020's Personal
Loan Winners

Whether you need to finance an XL purchase or consolidate debt, 2020's best lenders can help you get there. And while this year's winners are our partners, it in no way influenced our decisions or opinions.
Best-Of Awards > Personal Loans

Best Personal Loan for Excellent Credit

SoFi
Get Rate

on SoFi's website

Min. credit score

None

Est. APR

8.99-29.99%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Large loan amounts.
  • Joint loan option.
  • Mobile app to manage loan.

Cons

  • No option to choose initial payment date.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old in most states.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent or non-permanent resident, including DACA recipients and asylum seekers.
  • Must be employed, have sufficient income from another source, or have an offer of employment to start within the next 90 days.
  • Acceptable income sources: Employment, spouse’s income, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 0% to 7%.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Fixed rates from 8.99% APR to 29.99% APR reflect the 0.25% autopay interest rate discount and a 0.25% direct deposit interest rate discount. SoFi rate ranges are current as of 02/06/2024 and are subject to change without notice. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2022 was around $30K. Not all applicants qualify for the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed and will depend on the term you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and a variety of other factors. Loan amounts range from $5,000– $100,000. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate and reflects both your interest rate and an origination fee of 0%-7%, which will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive. Autopay: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. Direct Deposit Discount: To be eligible to potentially receive an additional (0.25%) interest rate reduction for setting up direct deposit with a SoFi Checking and Savings account offered by SoFi Bank, N.A. or eligible cash management account offered by SoFi Securities, LLC (“Direct Deposit Account”), you must have an open Direct Deposit Account within 30 days of the funding of your Loan. Once eligible, you will receive this discount during periods in which you have enabled payroll direct deposits of at least $1,000/month to a Direct Deposit Account in accordance with SoFi’s reasonable procedures and requirements to be determined at SoFi’s sole discretion. This discount will be lost during periods in which SoFi determines you have turned off direct deposits to your Direct Deposit Account. You are not required to enroll in direct deposits to receive a Loan.

Read full review
Min. credit score

None

Est. APR

8.99-29.99%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Large loan amounts.
  • Joint loan option.
  • Mobile app to manage loan.

Cons

  • No option to choose initial payment date.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old in most states.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent or non-permanent resident, including DACA recipients and asylum seekers.
  • Must be employed, have sufficient income from another source, or have an offer of employment to start within the next 90 days.
  • Acceptable income sources: Employment, spouse’s income, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 0% to 7%.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Fixed rates from 8.99% APR to 29.99% APR reflect the 0.25% autopay interest rate discount and a 0.25% direct deposit interest rate discount. SoFi rate ranges are current as of 02/06/2024 and are subject to change without notice. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2022 was around $30K. Not all applicants qualify for the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed and will depend on the term you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and a variety of other factors. Loan amounts range from $5,000– $100,000. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate and reflects both your interest rate and an origination fee of 0%-7%, which will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive. Autopay: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. Direct Deposit Discount: To be eligible to potentially receive an additional (0.25%) interest rate reduction for setting up direct deposit with a SoFi Checking and Savings account offered by SoFi Bank, N.A. or eligible cash management account offered by SoFi Securities, LLC (“Direct Deposit Account”), you must have an open Direct Deposit Account within 30 days of the funding of your Loan. Once eligible, you will receive this discount during periods in which you have enabled payroll direct deposits of at least $1,000/month to a Direct Deposit Account in accordance with SoFi’s reasonable procedures and requirements to be determined at SoFi’s sole discretion. This discount will be lost during periods in which SoFi determines you have turned off direct deposits to your Direct Deposit Account. You are not required to enroll in direct deposits to receive a Loan.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

SoFi caters to excellent-credit borrowers, with low rates, no fees and flexible payments. Customers also get perks like online forums for financial advice.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan for Good Credit

Lightstream
Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

Read full review
Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

For borrowers with excellent credit, LightStream offers low rates, no fees, large loan amounts and extended loan terms for home improvement loans.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan for Fair Credit

Upgrade
Get Rate

on Upgrade's website

Get Rate

on Upgrade's website

Min. credit score

580

Est. APR

9.99-35.99%

Loan amount

$1,000-$50,000

Pros

  • Secured and joint loans.
  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Mobile app to manage loan payments.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • Long repayment terms on home improvement loans.

Cons

  • Origination fee.
  • No option to choose your payment date.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 580.
  • Minimum number of accounts on credit history: One account.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 75%, including mortgage payments.
  • Minimum length of credit history: Two years.
  • Minimum income requirement: None. Lender accepts income from alimony, retirement, child support, Social Security, disability benefits and other sources.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 1.85% to 9.99%.
  • Late Fee: $10.
  • Failed payment fee: $10.

Disclaimer: Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 9.99%-35.99%. All personal loans have a 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. Loans feature repayment terms of 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 loan with a 36-month term and a 17.59% APR (which includes a 13.94% yearly interest rate and a 5% one-time origination fee), you would receive $9,500 in your account and would have a required monthly payment of $341.48. Over the life of the loan, your payments would total $12,293.46. The APR on your loan may be higher or lower and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. Actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early. Personal loans issued by Upgrade's bank partners. Information on Upgrade's bank partners can be found at https://www.upgrade.com/bank-partners/.

Read full review
Min. credit score

580

Est. APR

9.99-35.99%

Loan amount

$1,000-$50,000

Pros

  • Secured and joint loans.
  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Mobile app to manage loan payments.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • Long repayment terms on home improvement loans.

Cons

  • Origination fee.
  • No option to choose your payment date.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 580.
  • Minimum number of accounts on credit history: One account.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 75%, including mortgage payments.
  • Minimum length of credit history: Two years.
  • Minimum income requirement: None. Lender accepts income from alimony, retirement, child support, Social Security, disability benefits and other sources.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 1.85% to 9.99%.
  • Late Fee: $10.
  • Failed payment fee: $10.

Disclaimer: Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 9.99%-35.99%. All personal loans have a 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. Loans feature repayment terms of 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 loan with a 36-month term and a 17.59% APR (which includes a 13.94% yearly interest rate and a 5% one-time origination fee), you would receive $9,500 in your account and would have a required monthly payment of $341.48. Over the life of the loan, your payments would total $12,293.46. The APR on your loan may be higher or lower and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. Actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early. Personal loans issued by Upgrade's bank partners. Information on Upgrade's bank partners can be found at https://www.upgrade.com/bank-partners/.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

Upgrade is designed for borrowers with fair credit, offering financial help like credit monitoring and education in addition to loans with competitive rates.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan for Bad Credit

Avant
Get Rate

on Avant's website

Get Rate

on Avant's website

Min. credit score

550

Est. APR

9.95-35.99%

Loan amount

$2,000-$35,000

Pros

  • Accepts borrowers across the credit spectrum.
  • Low income requirement.
  • Fast approval and funding.
  • Hardship program for borrowers in need.
  • Seven-day customer service availability.

Cons

  • Origination fee.
  • No co-signed, joint or secured loans.
  • No rate discounts.
  • No large loan amounts.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 550. Avant uses FICO score version 8.0 and VantageScore version 3.0 from TransUnion.
  • Minimum monthly net income: $1,200. This lender accepts income from employment alimony, retirement, child support, Social Security payments or disability benefits.
  • Must be a resident of a state where Avant’s loans are available.
  • Must provide a Social Security number.
  • Must have a personal bank account in your name.
  • No active bankruptcies.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 5 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: Up to 9.99%.
  • Late fee: $25.
  • Nonsufficient funds fee: $15.

Disclaimer: Personal loan funds are generally deposited via ACH for delivery next business day if approved by 4:30 pm CT Monday-Friday. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $35,000. APR ranges from 9.95% to 35.99%. Loan lengths range from 24 to 60 months. Administration fee up to 9.99%. If approved, the actual loan terms that a customer qualifies for may vary based on credit determination, state law, and other factors. Minimum loan amounts vary by state. Administration fee is deducted from the loan proceeds and paid to the Lender. Any administration fee of 5% or less of the initial loan amount is not refundable. Administration fee amount in excess of 5% of the initial loan amount is refundable on a prorated basis over the remaining term of the loan when and if the loan is paid in full prior to its original maturity date. A partial prepayment does not trigger a refund of any administration fee amount. Borrower recognizes that the Administration fee is deemed part of the loan principal and is subject to the accrual of interest. Example: A $5,700 loan with an administration fee of 9.99% and an amount financed of $5,130.57, repayable in 36 monthly installments, would have an APR of 29.95% and monthly payments of $217.66. New Mexico consumer brochure (hyper linked to - https://assets.ctfassets.net/vrxttq978is8/1eS8eJhH54ycK7fhPa7hUk/bd189960ce122598d8c7551d2fb96fad/NM_Consumer_Information_Brochure_and_Loan_Rate_and_Fee_Disclosure.pdf) for common terms and definitions and regulations around rates and fees. Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank.

Read full review
Min. credit score

550

Est. APR

9.95-35.99%

Loan amount

$2,000-$35,000

Pros

  • Accepts borrowers across the credit spectrum.
  • Low income requirement.
  • Fast approval and funding.
  • Hardship program for borrowers in need.
  • Seven-day customer service availability.

Cons

  • Origination fee.
  • No co-signed, joint or secured loans.
  • No rate discounts.
  • No large loan amounts.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 550. Avant uses FICO score version 8.0 and VantageScore version 3.0 from TransUnion.
  • Minimum monthly net income: $1,200. This lender accepts income from employment alimony, retirement, child support, Social Security payments or disability benefits.
  • Must be a resident of a state where Avant’s loans are available.
  • Must provide a Social Security number.
  • Must have a personal bank account in your name.
  • No active bankruptcies.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 5 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: Up to 9.99%.
  • Late fee: $25.
  • Nonsufficient funds fee: $15.

Disclaimer: Personal loan funds are generally deposited via ACH for delivery next business day if approved by 4:30 pm CT Monday-Friday. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $35,000. APR ranges from 9.95% to 35.99%. Loan lengths range from 24 to 60 months. Administration fee up to 9.99%. If approved, the actual loan terms that a customer qualifies for may vary based on credit determination, state law, and other factors. Minimum loan amounts vary by state. Administration fee is deducted from the loan proceeds and paid to the Lender. Any administration fee of 5% or less of the initial loan amount is not refundable. Administration fee amount in excess of 5% of the initial loan amount is refundable on a prorated basis over the remaining term of the loan when and if the loan is paid in full prior to its original maturity date. A partial prepayment does not trigger a refund of any administration fee amount. Borrower recognizes that the Administration fee is deemed part of the loan principal and is subject to the accrual of interest. Example: A $5,700 loan with an administration fee of 9.99% and an amount financed of $5,130.57, repayable in 36 monthly installments, would have an APR of 29.95% and monthly payments of $217.66. New Mexico consumer brochure (hyper linked to - https://assets.ctfassets.net/vrxttq978is8/1eS8eJhH54ycK7fhPa7hUk/bd189960ce122598d8c7551d2fb96fad/NM_Consumer_Information_Brochure_and_Loan_Rate_and_Fee_Disclosure.pdf) for common terms and definitions and regulations around rates and fees. Avant branded credit products are issued by WebBank.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

Avant targets borrowers with bad credit scores, offering relatively low starting rates, flexible payment features and an option to refinance to a lower rate.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan From a Bank

Marcus by Goldman Sachs
See my rates

on NerdWallet's secure website

See my rates

on NerdWallet's secure website

Min. credit score

740

Est. APR

6.99-24.99%

Loan amount

$3,500-$40,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Option to pre-qualify with a soft credit check.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.

Cons

  • No co-sign or joint loan option.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 740 FICO.
  • Must have U.S. bank account.
  • Must provide Social Security number or Individual Tax ID number.

Available Term Lengths

  • 3 to 6 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Your loan terms are not guaranteed and are subject to our verification of your identity and credit information. Rates range from 6.99% to 24.99% APR, and loan terms range from 36 to 72 months. For NY residents, rates range from 6.99%-24.74%. Only the most creditworthy applicants qualify for the lowest rates and longest loan terms. Rates will generally be higher for longer-term loans. To obtain a loan, you must submit additional documentation including an application that may affect your credit score. The availability of a loan offer and the terms of your actual offer will vary due to a number of factors, including your loan purpose and our evaluation of your creditworthiness. Rates will vary based on many factors, such as your creditworthiness (for example, credit score and credit history) and the length of your loan (for example, rates for 36 month loans are generally lower than rates for 72 month loans). Your maximum loan amount may vary depending on your loan purpose, income and creditworthiness. Your verifiable income must support your ability to repay your loan. Marcus by Goldman Sachs is a brand of Goldman Sachs Bank USA and all loans are issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch. Applications are subject to additional terms and conditions. Receive a 0.25% APR reduction when you enroll in AutoPay. This reduction will not be applied if AutoPay is not in effect. When enrolled, a larger portion of your monthly payment will be applied to your principal loan amount and less interest will accrue on your loan, which may result in a smaller final payment. See loan agreement for details.

Read full review
Min. credit score

740

Est. APR

6.99-24.99%

Loan amount

$3,500-$40,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Option to pre-qualify with a soft credit check.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.

Cons

  • No co-sign or joint loan option.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 740 FICO.
  • Must have U.S. bank account.
  • Must provide Social Security number or Individual Tax ID number.

Available Term Lengths

  • 3 to 6 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Your loan terms are not guaranteed and are subject to our verification of your identity and credit information. Rates range from 6.99% to 24.99% APR, and loan terms range from 36 to 72 months. For NY residents, rates range from 6.99%-24.74%. Only the most creditworthy applicants qualify for the lowest rates and longest loan terms. Rates will generally be higher for longer-term loans. To obtain a loan, you must submit additional documentation including an application that may affect your credit score. The availability of a loan offer and the terms of your actual offer will vary due to a number of factors, including your loan purpose and our evaluation of your creditworthiness. Rates will vary based on many factors, such as your creditworthiness (for example, credit score and credit history) and the length of your loan (for example, rates for 36 month loans are generally lower than rates for 72 month loans). Your maximum loan amount may vary depending on your loan purpose, income and creditworthiness. Your verifiable income must support your ability to repay your loan. Marcus by Goldman Sachs is a brand of Goldman Sachs Bank USA and all loans are issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch. Applications are subject to additional terms and conditions. Receive a 0.25% APR reduction when you enroll in AutoPay. This reduction will not be applied if AutoPay is not in effect. When enrolled, a larger portion of your monthly payment will be applied to your principal loan amount and less interest will accrue on your loan, which may result in a smaller final payment. See loan agreement for details.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

Among banks that offer personal loans, Marcus stands out for low rates, no fees, flexible payment options and a transparent online application process.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan for Home Improvement

Lightstream
Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

Read full review
Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

Read full review

Why this LENDER made the list

For borrowers with excellent credit, LightStream offers low rates, no fees, large loan amounts and extended loan terms for home improvement loans.

Read our methodology

Best Personal Loan for Fast Funding

Lightstream
Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Get Rate

on LightStream's website

Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

Read full review
Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

6.99-25.29%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • No fees.
  • Rate discount for autopay.
  • Long repayment terms and large loan amounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Rate Beat program and Experience Guarantee.

Cons

  • No option to pre-qualify.
  • No direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660, but can vary depending on the loan purpose and amount.
  • Maximum debt-to-income ratio: 50%.
  • Minimum credit history: 3 years.
  • Income sources accepted: Employment, retirement, rental income, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and has a U.S. bank account.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Rates quoted are with AutoPay. Your loan terms are not guaranteed and may vary based on loan purpose, length of loan, loan amount, credit history and payment method (AutoPay or Invoice). AutoPay discount is only available when selected prior to loan funding. Rates without AutoPay are 0.50% points higher. To obtain a loan, you must complete an application on LightStream.com which may affect your credit score. You may be required to verify income, identity and other stated application information. Payment example: Monthly payments for a $10,000 loan at 7.99% APR with a term of 5 years would result in 60 monthly payments of $202.72. Some additional conditions and limitations apply. Advertised rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Truist Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. © 2024 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist Bank.

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Why this LENDER made the list

In addition to low rates and no fees, LightStream offers same-day funding for applications accepted by midafternoon.

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Best Personal Loan for Flexible Terms

SoFi
Get Rate

on SoFi's website

Min. credit score

None

Est. APR

8.99-29.99%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Large loan amounts.
  • Joint loan option.
  • Mobile app to manage loan.

Cons

  • No option to choose initial payment date.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old in most states.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent or non-permanent resident, including DACA recipients and asylum seekers.
  • Must be employed, have sufficient income from another source, or have an offer of employment to start within the next 90 days.
  • Acceptable income sources: Employment, spouse’s income, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 0% to 7%.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Fixed rates from 8.99% APR to 29.99% APR reflect the 0.25% autopay interest rate discount and a 0.25% direct deposit interest rate discount. SoFi rate ranges are current as of 02/06/2024 and are subject to change without notice. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2022 was around $30K. Not all applicants qualify for the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed and will depend on the term you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and a variety of other factors. Loan amounts range from $5,000– $100,000. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate and reflects both your interest rate and an origination fee of 0%-7%, which will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive. Autopay: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. Direct Deposit Discount: To be eligible to potentially receive an additional (0.25%) interest rate reduction for setting up direct deposit with a SoFi Checking and Savings account offered by SoFi Bank, N.A. or eligible cash management account offered by SoFi Securities, LLC (“Direct Deposit Account”), you must have an open Direct Deposit Account within 30 days of the funding of your Loan. Once eligible, you will receive this discount during periods in which you have enabled payroll direct deposits of at least $1,000/month to a Direct Deposit Account in accordance with SoFi’s reasonable procedures and requirements to be determined at SoFi’s sole discretion. This discount will be lost during periods in which SoFi determines you have turned off direct deposits to your Direct Deposit Account. You are not required to enroll in direct deposits to receive a Loan.

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Min. credit score

None

Est. APR

8.99-29.99%

Loan amount

$5,000-$100,000

Pros

  • Multiple rate discounts.
  • Fast funding.
  • Large loan amounts.
  • Joint loan option.
  • Mobile app to manage loan.

Cons

  • No option to choose initial payment date.
  • High minimum loan amount.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old in most states.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent or non-permanent resident, including DACA recipients and asylum seekers.
  • Must be employed, have sufficient income from another source, or have an offer of employment to start within the next 90 days.
  • Acceptable income sources: Employment, spouse’s income, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.

Available Term Lengths

  • 2 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: 0% to 7%.
  • Late fee: None.

Disclaimer: Fixed rates from 8.99% APR to 29.99% APR reflect the 0.25% autopay interest rate discount and a 0.25% direct deposit interest rate discount. SoFi rate ranges are current as of 02/06/2024 and are subject to change without notice. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2022 was around $30K. Not all applicants qualify for the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed and will depend on the term you select, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and a variety of other factors. Loan amounts range from $5,000– $100,000. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate and reflects both your interest rate and an origination fee of 0%-7%, which will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive. Autopay: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. Direct Deposit Discount: To be eligible to potentially receive an additional (0.25%) interest rate reduction for setting up direct deposit with a SoFi Checking and Savings account offered by SoFi Bank, N.A. or eligible cash management account offered by SoFi Securities, LLC (“Direct Deposit Account”), you must have an open Direct Deposit Account within 30 days of the funding of your Loan. Once eligible, you will receive this discount during periods in which you have enabled payroll direct deposits of at least $1,000/month to a Direct Deposit Account in accordance with SoFi’s reasonable procedures and requirements to be determined at SoFi’s sole discretion. This discount will be lost during periods in which SoFi determines you have turned off direct deposits to your Direct Deposit Account. You are not required to enroll in direct deposits to receive a Loan.

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Why this LENDER made the list

In addition to low rates and no fees, SoFi's flexible payment options include the ability to change your due date and suspend payments if you lose your job.

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Best Personal Loan for Debt Consolidation

Discover
Get Rate

on Discover's website

Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

7.99-24.99%

Loan amount

$2,500-$40,000

Pros

  • No origination fee.
  • Fast funding.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • Wide variety of repayment term options.
  • Available nationwide.

Cons

  • No rate discount.
  • Late fee.
  • No co-sign or joint loan option.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660.
  • Minimum annual household income: $25,000. Income can come from employment, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must provide a valid U.S. address and email address.
  • Must be 18 years old with a valid Social Security number.

Available Term Lengths

  • 3 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: $39.

Disclaimer: This is not a commitment to lend from Discover Personal Loans. Your APR will be between 7.99% and 24.99% based on creditworthiness at time of application for loan terms of 36-84 months. For example, if you get approved for a $15,000 loan at 12.99% APR for a term of 72 months, you'll pay just $301 per month. You must have a minimum individual or household annual income of $25,000, be over 18 years of age, and have a valid US SSN to be considered for a Discover personal loan. Loan approval is subject to confirmation that your income, debt-to-income ratio, credit history and application information meet all requirements. Our lowest rates are available to consumers with the best credit. Many factors are used to determine your rate, such as your credit history, application information and the term you select. State restrictions may apply. A Discover personal loan is intended for personal use and cannot be used to pay for post-secondary education, to pay off a secured loan, or to directly pay off a Discover credit card. If your application is approved, we will send funds after you accept the loan. Your bank or creditor may take more days to process the funds. Discover makes loans without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status.

Read full review
Min. credit score

660

Est. APR

7.99-24.99%

Loan amount

$2,500-$40,000

Pros

  • No origination fee.
  • Fast funding.
  • Direct payment to creditors with debt consolidation loans.
  • Wide variety of repayment term options.
  • Available nationwide.

Cons

  • No rate discount.
  • Late fee.
  • No co-sign or joint loan option.

Qualifications

  • Minimum credit score: 660.
  • Minimum annual household income: $25,000. Income can come from employment, retirement, alimony, child support, Social Security payments and disability benefits.
  • Must provide a valid U.S. address and email address.
  • Must be 18 years old with a valid Social Security number.

Available Term Lengths

  • 3 to 7 years

Fees

  • Origination fee: None.
  • Late fee: $39.

Disclaimer: This is not a commitment to lend from Discover Personal Loans. Your APR will be between 7.99% and 24.99% based on creditworthiness at time of application for loan terms of 36-84 months. For example, if you get approved for a $15,000 loan at 12.99% APR for a term of 72 months, you'll pay just $301 per month. You must have a minimum individual or household annual income of $25,000, be over 18 years of age, and have a valid US SSN to be considered for a Discover personal loan. Loan approval is subject to confirmation that your income, debt-to-income ratio, credit history and application information meet all requirements. Our lowest rates are available to consumers with the best credit. Many factors are used to determine your rate, such as your credit history, application information and the term you select. State restrictions may apply. A Discover personal loan is intended for personal use and cannot be used to pay for post-secondary education, to pay off a secured loan, or to directly pay off a Discover credit card. If your application is approved, we will send funds after you accept the loan. Your bank or creditor may take more days to process the funds. Discover makes loans without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status.

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Why this LENDER made the list

Discover caters to borrowers who want to consolidate debt, offering low rates, no origination fees, flexible payment options and direct payments to creditors.

Read our methodology

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