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Best Credit Unions for Personal Loans in 2026

Credit union personal loans have low rates, a wide range of loan amounts and less stringent borrowing requirements. However, you must be a credit union member to get a loan.

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Jackie Veling, Nicole Dow

Does Debt Consolidation Hurt Your Credit?

Debt consolidation has the potential to help and hurt your credit score, but the overall effect should be positive if you're able to pay off your debt.

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Jackie Veling, Bev O'Shea

What Is Credit Insurance?

Credit insurance ensures the lender continues to receive payments if you can’t make them. You probably don't need it.

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Nicole Dow, Robin Hartill, CFP®

Personal Loan vs. Credit Card: What’s the Difference?

Personal loans give you a lump sum for large purchases. Credit cards work better for smaller, everyday expenses.

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Annie Millerbernd, Ronita Choudhuri-Wade

What Is APR on a Personal Loan And How Does It Work?

The annual percentage rate on a personal loan includes interest and fees and lets you compare total costs among loans.

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Jackie Veling, Laura McMullen

Can’t Repay a Payday Loan? Here’s What to Do

Defaulting on a payday loan could drain your bank account and trigger collection calls. Try to settle the debt if you can.

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Nicole Dow, Jackie Veling

Christmas Loans and Other Ways to Borrow for the Holidays

A Christmas loan is one way to pay for expenses this time of year, but compare financing options to find the most affordable one.

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Ronita Choudhuri-Wade, Laura McMullen

Secured vs. Unsecured Loan: What’s the Difference?

Many personal loans are unsecured, but some lenders offer secured loans that are backed by collateral.

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Jackie Veling, Laura McMullen

Payday Alternative Loans (PALs): A More Affordable Option Than Payday Loans

PALs, offered by some federal credit unions, cost less than traditional payday loans and give borrowers more time to repay.

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Jackie Veling, Nicole Dow

8 Types of Personal Loans and When They’re Best

Common types of personal loans include unsecured, debt consolidation and joint loans.

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Nicole Dow

What Is a Personal Line of Credit?

A line of credit is a loan that works like a credit card: You borrow only as much as you need and pay interest only on what you use.

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Nicole Dow, Robin Hartill, CFP®

Should You Take a Pawnshop Loan?

Pawnshop loans are cheaper than payday or title loans when you need fast cash. Still, consider alternatives first.

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Jackie Veling, Nicole Dow

Car Title Loans: Risks and Alternatives

Car title loans provide fast funds, but they're expensive and can put you in a cycle of debt. Consider other options first.

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Sean Pyles

What Is a Debt Management Plan?

A debt management plan groups several credit card debts into one payment, cuts your interest rate and creates a three- to five-year repayment plan.

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Jackie Veling, Sean Pyles

What Is a Lending Circle and How Does It Work?

A lending circle loan can be an interest-free way to borrow money and build credit.

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Nicole Dow, Laura McMullen

Balance Transfer Card or Personal Loan: Which Is Right for You?

Compare two smart ways to consolidate debt: a balance transfer or a personal loan.

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Jackie Veling