Best Personal Loans 2025
Our Featured Personal Loan Lenders:
Best for Homeowners
- Home Equity Loans, HELOCs, 2nd Mortgages, Cash Out
- 92% of Customers Discover Savings in Minutes
- Low Rates: Quick Quote & Approval
- Over $200 Billion Funded, 23 Years in Business
Lock In Today's Best Rate
Best for Flexible Equity Access
- APR: 8.99% - 29.99%1
- Borrow from $5,000 to $50,000
- Loan Terms: 2 - 4 years
- Simple and fast online application
Get Quotes & Pre-Qualify Quickly
- Home equity loans & cash out refinance
- Low rates: quick quote and approval
- Save time on documents & paperwork
- Variable-rate lines of credit
Best for Multiple Loan Types
- APR: 6.49% - 35.99%¹
- Borrow from $600 to $200,000
- Loan terms: 1 - 7 years
- Rated A+ by the BBB
Best for Home Repair Loans
- APR: 6.49% - 24.89%1
- Borrow from $1,000 - $40,000
- Loan Terms: 2 - 20 years
- Flexible payment terms and no fees/prepayment penalties
Best for Homeowners
- Home Equity Loans, HELOCs, 2nd Mortgages, Cash Out
- 92% of Customers Discover Savings in Minutes
- Low Rates: Quick Quote & Approval
- Over $200 Billion Funded, 23 Years in Business
Lock In Today's Best Rate
A Simple Guide to Personal Loans: What You Should Know
Personal loans are versatile financial tools that can be used for a wide range of purposes—from covering unexpected expenses to financing major purchases. With fixed terms and predictable payments, they provide borrowers with clarity and structure when managing their finances.
Whether you’re planning a home project, paying for education, or simply looking for flexibility, a personal loan can give you access to funds without relying on revolving credit lines.
How Personal Loans Can Be Useful
Borrowers choose personal loans for their simplicity and reliability. A personal loan may help you:
- Finance large purchases: Manage major expenses with one set monthly payment.
- Cover unexpected costs: Handle medical bills, travel, or other surprise expenses.
- Lock in stability: Enjoy a fixed interest rate for predictable payments.
- Build credit: Strengthen your credit profile with consistent, on-time repayment.
- Access funds quickly: Many lenders provide fast approval and funding.
Key Features of Personal Loans
1. Fixed Interest Rates
Most personal loans have fixed rates, so your payment amount stays the same each month. This predictability makes it easier to budget with confidence.
2. Flexible Loan Terms
Repayment periods usually range from 12 to 60 months, giving you flexibility to select a loan length that works for your goals and budget.
3. Unsecured Access
Most personal loans don’t require collateral, so you don’t need to risk your house, car, or savings to qualify.
4. Fast Funding
Many lenders provide quick approvals and deposit funds within a few business days, making personal loans useful for time-sensitive needs.
What are the Risks?
Applying for a personal loan is a serious decision, and while the process may be simple, there are still important risks to be aware of. Keeping your eyes open for potential pitfalls can save you money and stress later on. Here are the main things to watch for:
- Origination fees: Some lenders charge upfront fees, often between 0.5% and 1% of the loan amount. Others may not charge at all. Reputable lenders will disclose these fees clearly from the start.
- Interest rates: Rates can vary widely, even between borrowers at the same lender. Always ask to see the total cost of the loan over its lifetime so you know exactly how much you’ll be paying.
- Early repayment penalties: Some lenders charge a fee if you pay off your loan early, since they lose interest income. Check for these clauses before signing.
- Payday loans: Extremely high interest rates make payday loans risky and difficult to escape if payments are missed. Only use them if you’re absolutely certain you can repay on time.
- Privacy concerns: Some providers share your personal details with multiple lenders, leading to marketing calls or emails. Choose providers that give you control over how your information is used.
- Affordability: Never borrow more than you can comfortably repay. Missed payments can damage your credit score and create financial strain.
Personal loans can be highly effective tools when used responsibly. Millions of borrowers rely on them each year—just be sure you understand the terms and potential risks before moving forward.
Secured vs. Unsecured Loans
There are two main types of personal loans you’ll encounter. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right fit for your needs.
Secured Loans
These loans require collateral, such as your car, savings account, or another asset. Because the lender has security, interest rates are usually lower, and borrowers with lower credit scores may find them easier to access. The risk, however, is that if you fail to make payments, you could lose the asset you pledged.
Unsecured Loans
These are the most common type of personal loan and do not require collateral. While they protect your property, they usually carry higher interest rates since the lender assumes more risk. Missing payments can also significantly hurt your credit score.
Typical Repayment Terms
Most personal loans offer repayment terms ranging from one to seven years. The length of your loan, along with your credit score and overall financial profile, will determine the interest rate you’re offered.
- Shorter terms: Often come with higher monthly payments but may cost less overall since you pay less interest.
- Longer terms: Typically mean lower monthly payments, but the total cost can be higher because interest accrues over more time.
Always review the total repayment amount over the life of the loan—not just the monthly payment. Some lenders also offer extra protections, such as unemployment clauses, which may pause or cancel payments if your financial situation changes. Be sure to read all the fine print before signing.
How Much Can You Borrow?
The amount you can borrow depends heavily on your credit profile and financial circumstances. Stronger credit scores typically qualify for larger loan amounts and lower rates, but even modest loans can help build credit over time if managed responsibly.
Loan amounts can reach up to $100,000 with some lenders, though most personal loans average around $15,000 in the U.S. The best approach is to borrow only what you need and have a clear plan for how you’ll use the funds.
Steps to Applying for a Personal Loan
Getting a personal loan online is straightforward, and the process can often be completed in just a few steps. Here’s what to expect along the way:
- Set your budget: Decide on a monthly payment you can comfortably afford, and avoid offers that push you beyond that limit.
- Check your credit score: Knowing where you stand helps you understand what loan amounts and rates you may qualify for.
- Compare lenders: Research reputable online lenders and marketplaces to see who offers the best fit for your needs.
- Provide basic details: Share your personal information and desired loan amount with the lender or marketplace.
- Review your options: You’ll typically see a selection of offers with different rates, terms, and repayment lengths.
- Choose your loan: Once you pick an offer, the lender will run a hard credit check to finalize your approval.
- Finalize and fund: After approval, sign your agreement and your funds are deposited—often within just a few days.
How to Choose the Right Lender
With so many options available, choosing the right lender can feel overwhelming. One way to simplify the process is to use a loan marketplace, which lets you compare offers from multiple providers in one place. You can also do your own independent research. Either way, keep these key points in mind before signing any agreement:
- Check eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet the lender’s age, income, and credit score criteria before applying to avoid unnecessary hard credit checks.
- Review reputation: Look at independent reviews on sites like TrustPilot or feedback on loan marketplaces. A strong reputation shows the lender values transparency and customer service.
- Compare rates and fees: Interest rates and fees vary from lender to lender. Comparing multiple offers ensures you’re getting the most competitive deal.
- Read the fine print: Always review the full loan terms so you understand repayment schedules, additional charges, and any penalties that may apply.
*Tip: Start by exploring the table of our top partners above, then scroll down to read detailed reviews of each pick. Comparing features, benefits, and offers side by side makes it easy to find the personal loan that fits you best.
AmeriSave Home Equity Loans Overview:
AmeriSave lets homeowners convert equity into cash with a fixed-rate home equity loan (HELOAN), all while keeping your existing mortgage intact. It’s positioned for big expenses, debt consolidation, home improvements, or other goals — delivering the lump sum you need with predictable payments.
Loan Key Features:
- Loan Amounts: From $25,000 up to $500,000, depending on eligibility.
- Combined Loan-to-Value (CLTV): Borrow up to 90% of CLTV in many cases.
- Interest Rates: Fixed rates (exact rate depends on credit, property, and underwriting).
- Repayment Terms: Options include 20-year or 30-year fixed terms, with interest-only periods possible for some configurations.
- Fees & Closing Costs: Closing costs and third-party fees (such as appraisal and title) apply, with the option to roll many of these into the loan.
- No Origination Fee: AmeriSave advertises zero hidden fees and no origination fees.
Eligibility & Requirements:
- Credit Score: Minimum ~640 FICO is typically required for home equity eligibility.
- Property Type: 1–4 unit homes, condos, second homes, and some investment properties may be eligible.
- Equity Required: The existing mortgage balance plus the new loan must stay within property value constraints (based on CLTV).
- Documentation: Income verification, property details, tax returns, and mortgage statements are required.
- State Availability: Not all programs are offered in every state.
Application Process:
- Prequalification: You can check rate estimates without a hard credit pull.
- Property Valuation: An appraisal or automated valuation is required to confirm your property’s value.
- Closing & Funding: After approval, closing occurs and funds are disbursed in a single lump sum. Closing costs may be rolled into the loan.
- Timeline: The typical timeline depends on appraisal, underwriting, and document turnaround; closings often take about 25–30 days.
Repayment & Benefits:
- Fixed Payments: Once locked in, payments remain steady over the term.
- Keeping Your Primary Mortgage: Your original mortgage stays intact — this loan is a second lien on your home.
- Potential for Bundling Costs: Some closing and third-party costs may be financed into the loan to reduce out-of-pocket burden.
- Predictability: Since it’s a fixed loan, you avoid surprises from variable rate swings common in HELOCs.
Achieve Home Equity Loans Overview:
Achieve offers home equity loans designed to help homeowners consolidate debt, lower monthly payments, and keep their existing mortgage intact. With fixed-rate options, flexible repayment terms, and a focus on debt relief, Achieve provides borrowers with predictable payments and the opportunity to save thousands annually.
Loan Key Features:
- Loan Amounts: $15,000 to $300,000, depending on eligibility and state availability.
- Interest Rates: Fixed APRs range from 6.240% to 14.000%, based on credit profile and underwriting.
- Loan Terms: 10, 15, 20, or 30 years available.
- Fees: Closing fees from $750 to $6,685 may apply, including up to 3.5% origination and $725 underwriting fee (state dependent). No prepayment penalties.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Credit Score: Minimum 600 for debt consolidation; 640 for longer terms; 700+ for cash-out options.
- Residency: Must be U.S. resident and property owner; loans not available in all states.
- Property: Owner-occupied home required, with combined loan-to-value typically capped at 75%.
- Insurance: Property insurance required; flood insurance if in a flood zone.
Application Process:
- Speed and Ease: Prequalification in minutes; funding averages 15–18 business days including closing and rescission.
- Documents: Proof of income, homeownership, and identification required.
- Funding Speed: Typical funding within 2–3 weeks, depending on loan situation.
Repayment Options & Benefits:
- Monthly Payments: Fixed installments tailored to loan term.
- Debt Relief: Average member savings reported at $10,000 per year by consolidating high-interest debt.
- Flexibility: Early payoff allowed with no penalty, and solutions available if HE loan isn’t the best fit.
Rocket Mortgage Home Equity Loans Overview:
Rocket Mortgage offers fixed-rate home equity loans (second mortgages) that let homeowners access cash while keeping their original mortgage intact. You receive a lump sum, repay via fixed installments, and maintain stability in monthly payments. Their digital platform and reputation in mortgage lending give added comfort to many borrowers.
Loan Key Features:
- Loan Amounts: $45,000 minimum up to $500,000 in many cases.
- Repayment Terms: Options include 10, 15, 20, or 30 years.
- Interest Rates: Fixed for the life of the loan; exact rates depend on credit, LTV, and underwriting.
- Loan Type: Second lien (your existing mortgage stays in place, plus this loan).
- Fees & Closing Costs: No application fee is generally required; borrowers pay appraisal, title, and other closing costs.
Eligibility & Requirements:
- Credit Score: Minimum around 680 FICO required.
- Combined LTV / Equity Caps: • FICO ~680 → up to ~80% CLTV • FICO ~700 → up to ~85% CLTV • FICO ~740+ → up to ~90% CLTV in some cases
- Debt-to-Income (DTI): Must be under 50%.
- Property Type & Ownership: Primary residences, second homes, and some investment properties may qualify.
- Minimum Loan Requirement: At least $45,000 in most states (higher in some states such as Iowa).
Application Process:
- Speed & Convenience: Applications can be started online through Rocket’s digital platform with a streamlined process.
- Appraisal / Valuation: A full appraisal is usually required, though automated valuations may apply in certain cases.
- Document Review & Underwriting: Rocket reviews income, credit, debts, and property information for approval.
- Funding & Closing: After approval, closing occurs and the lump sum is disbursed. Timeline depends on appraisal and document processing.
Repayment & Benefits:
- Fixed Payments: Monthly payments remain constant throughout the life of the loan.
- Leverage Existing Mortgage: Your original mortgage stays intact; this is an additional lien.
- Large Access to Equity: Higher maximum loan amounts and flexible LTV tiers allow access to substantial equity.
Credible Personal Loans Overview:
Credible's platform connects you with multiple lenders, allowing you to compare personalized rates in one convenient place—without sharing your data or impacting your credit score. SoFi's platform is completely free, with no hidden fees, and provides prequalified rates in just two minutes.
Loan Key Features:
- Loan Amounts: $600 to $200,000, depending on lender.
- Interest Rates: 6.49% to 35.99% APR, fixed rates.
- Loan Terms: 12 to 120 months, based on lender policy.
- Fees: Origination fees may apply, no platform fees.
- Best Rate Guarantee: $200 gift card if a better rate is found.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Credit Score: Minimums vary, many lenders accept 580–640.
- Residency: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, 18+.
- Income: Proof of steady income usually required.
Application Process:
- Speed and Ease: Quick online form with prequalification.
- Documents: ID, proof of income, and employment verification.
- Funding Speed: Same-day to a few days, varies by lender.
Repayment Options:
- Monthly Payments: Fixed installments for loan term.
- Flexibility: Autopay discounts and terms vary by lender.
LightStream Personal Loans Overview:
LightStream, a division of Truist Bank, is a highly trusted lender known for offering some of the largest loan amounts in the industry with very competitive rates. Its “Lending Uncomplicated” approach provides borrowers with a fast, fully digital, and paperless process. With no fees, a unique Rate Beat Program, and same-day funding available, LightStream stands out as a reliable choice for borrowers with strong credit seeking large, flexible loans.
Loan Key Features:
- Loan Amounts: $5,000 to $100,000.
- Interest Rates: Fixed APRs starting at 6.49% with AutoPay.
- Loan Terms: 24 to 144 months; up to 240 months for select purposes.
- Fees: No origination, late, or prepayment fees.
- Rate Beat: Will beat competitor rates by 0.10%.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Credit Score: Minimum around 660; best offers for 700+.
- Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, age 18+.
- Income: Requires proof of steady income and strong financial history.
- Prequalification: Not available; requires full application with hard pull.
Application Process:
- Speed and Ease: Fully online with approvals often in minutes.
- Documents: Proof of identity, income, and financial history.
- Funding Speed: Same-day deposits available if completed before cutoff.
Repayment Options:
- Monthly Payments: Fixed installments for the loan term.
- Flexibility: Early payoff allowed with no penalties.









