Wells Fargo Personal Loans: 2021 Review

To review Wells Fargo personal loans, NerdWallet collected data from the lender’s website, confirmed details with several customer service representatives and compared the lender with others that seek the same customer or offer a similar personal loan product. Loan terms and fees may vary by state.

Wells Fargo offers personal loans with plenty of benefits for qualified borrowers. Not only do the loans have competitive rates and minimal fees, but they also come in a wide range of amounts and repayment terms, so borrowers can better customize the loan to fit their needs.

Existing customers will see the most perks, though. Borrowers who make payments from a Wells Fargo account may qualify for a rate discount, and those with a Wells Fargo certificate of deposit or savings account have the option to use those assets to secure their loan.

Wells Fargo doesn't offer pre-qualification, which is a drawback for borrowers who want to see rates and loan amounts they may qualify for.

» MORE: Pre-qualify with multiple lenders at one time on NerdWallet

Wells Fargo is best for borrowers who:

• Have fair or good credit (630 to 719 FICO score).

• Are existing Wells Fargo customers.

• Want to add a co-borrower to their application.

• Are looking to fund a home improvement project.

Wells Fargo at a glance

» COMPARE: Best bank loans

Where Wells Fargo stands out

Competitive rates: Wells Fargo’s annual percentage rates are lower on average than many of its competitors'. If you have good credit and are an existing customer, you could get an especially attractive rate.

Customers who make automatic payments from a Wells Fargo account can qualify for a customer relationship discount on their APR, ranging from 0.25%-0.50%. The discount amount depends on the type of account you have with the lender.

Offers joint and secured loans: Borrowers can add a co-borrower to their application, and existing customers have the option to secure a loan with a Wells Fargo CD or savings account. Both options could lead to a lower rate or a higher loan amount.

Direct payment to creditors: Wells Fargo will send your loan proceeds directly to your creditors when you get a debt consolidation loan. This means you don’t have to worry about sending the money yourself, though you should follow up with creditors to confirm all debts have been paid in full.

Wide range of repayment terms: Borrowers can choose from a number of repayment term options. For loans under $5,000, one- to three-year terms are available. For loans of $5,000 or more, borrowers can make payments for up to seven years. For secured loans, borrowers can choose up to a 10-year term.

Combined with the lender’s large loan amounts, these repayment terms make Wells Fargo one of the best banks for a home improvement loan.

Where Wells Fargo falls short

No soft credit check: Wells Fargo doesn't offer the option to pre-qualify, which lets you see potential loan amounts, rates and terms without affecting your credit score. Though not all banks offer soft credit checks, some do, as do most online lenders.

Noncustomers must apply at a branch: If you’re not a customer at Wells Fargo but want to apply for a personal loan, you must visit a local branch to do so. Current customers can apply online or by phone.

Charges late fee: Wells Fargo charges a $39 late fee for missed payments. That's the only fee the lender charges, but it’s steep compared with other lenders.

» MORE: Best fair-credit lenders

How to qualify for a Wells Fargo loan

Wells Fargo doesn't publicly disclose many of its borrower requirements. Borrowers with good and excellent credit scores (690 or higher FICO) will likely qualify for the lowest rates. To apply, you need:

• Your Social Security number.

• Contact details, including a permanent address, email and phone number.

• Employment and income; documentation may be required to verify this information.

• Monthly mortgage or rent payment amount.

Loan example: A four-year, $12,000 loan with a 23.4% APR would cost $387 in monthly payments. You would pay $6,576 in total interest on that loan.

How to get a Wells Fargo loan

Apply on Wells Fargo

Existing customers can fill out an application on Wells Fargo’s website or call customer service. New customers must visit a branch to apply.

Pre-qualify on NerdWallet

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