If you have a credit score of 580 or lower, you may face challenges in securing loans with favorable terms. However, several lenders specialize in bad credit loans, catering specifically to individuals with low credit scores. Below are four personal loans available for people with credit scores of 580 or below, including loan features, benefits, and tips for securing approval.
List of 4 Personal Loans To Apply To If Your Credit Score Is 580 or Lower
1. OneMain Financial
- Overview: OneMain Financial is a well-known lender offering personal loans to individuals with a range of credit scores, including those with poor credit. OneMain's loans are generally unsecured, but they also offer secured loans for borrowers looking to improve their chances of approval.
- Loan Amounts: $1,500 to $20,000
- Interest Rates: 18% to 35.99% APR
- Loan Terms: 24 to 60 months
- Pros:
- Accepts low credit scores
- Fast approval and funding (within a day in many cases)
- Offers both unsecured and secured loan options
- Cons:
- High interest rates compared to prime lenders
- Requires a branch visit in some cases for document verification and funding
Application Tip: If you can offer collateral, such as a vehicle, you may qualify for a lower interest rate with OneMain Financial. Additionally, having a co-signer could improve your approval odds and get you a better rate.
2. Upstart
- Overview: Upstart is an online lending platform that considers more than just your credit score. They use artificial intelligence to assess various factors like education and work experience, making it a good option for individuals with limited credit history.
- Loan Amounts: $1,000 to $50,000
- Interest Rates: 6.5% to 35.99% APR
- Loan Terms: 36 to 60 months
- Pros:
- Fast approval process with same-day funding available
- Considers multiple factors beyond just credit score
- No minimum credit score requirement
- Cons:
- Higher APRs for borrowers with lower credit scores
- Origination fees can go up to 8% of the loan amount
Application Tip: If you’re concerned about your credit score, Upstart might be a strong option since their AI-driven model takes a holistic look at your profile, including your education and career history.
3. Avant
- Overview: Avant specializes in personal loans for borrowers with average to below-average credit scores. Avant does not require collateral, making it accessible for those unable to provide assets as security.
- Loan Amounts: $2,000 to $35,000
- Interest Rates: 9.95% to 35.99% APR
- Loan Terms: 24 to 60 months
- Pros:
- Low minimum credit score requirement
- Quick application and funding process
- Lower interest rates than payday loans
- Cons:
- High APRs for lower credit scores
- May charge an origination fee up to 4.75%
Application Tip: Avant offers a prequalification option that doesn’t affect your credit score, allowing you to check if you qualify before committing to a full application.
4. OppLoans
- Overview: OppLoans is a lender that partners with banks to provide loans specifically tailored to those with poor credit. They also focus on quick approval times and customer education, making them a more transparent choice for those with low credit scores.
- Loan Amounts: $500 to $4,000
- Interest Rates: 59% to 199% APR
- Loan Terms: 9 to 18 months
- Pros:
- No minimum credit score required
- Fast funding, often within one business day
- Flexible approval process focused on financial habits beyond credit scores
- Cons:
- Extremely high interest rates compared to traditional loans
- Limited loan terms and amounts
Application Tip: OppLoans focuses on helping people with poor credit, so they may approve you even with a score below 580. However, consider this lender as a last resort due to the high APRs.
Key Considerations for Bad Credit Personal Loans
Before applying for a personal loan, keep in mind the following tips:
- Interest Rates and Fees: Interest rates for borrowers with bad credit can be significantly higher. Be cautious of fees, including origination and late fees.
- Loan Terms: Opt for a loan term that fits your monthly budget. Shorter terms reduce the interest paid but increase the monthly payment amount.
- Check Prequalification Options: Many lenders allow you to check if you prequalify without impacting your credit score, which can be beneficial when shopping for loans.