Loan Companies Like Upstart, Avant, HappyMoney, Upgrade, LendingTree

ElitePersonalFinance • Loan Reviews • Loans •

Last Update: September 7, 2026

You don’t have to settle for a mediocre personal loan if you have a fair credit score. For example, plenty of lenders extend credit to borrowers with moderate credit, and under certain circumstances, you can even obtain good credit APRs.

Since many online lenders use alternative data that traditional lenders don’t always accept, your creditworthiness is more than a simple score. Therefore, your income, savings, spending habits, education, and rent history can often outweigh a weak credit score. Thus, please take the time to consider all of your options before settling for subpar financing.

Lender:	Loan Amount:	APR:	Min. Credit Score:	Best For:	Apply:
Upstart	$1,000 – $75,000	6.6% – 35.99%	300	Low credit scores, high DTI ratios	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
MoneyMutual	$100 – $5,000	5.99% – 35.99%	0	Bad or no credit	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
ZippyLoan	$100 – $15,000	5.99% – 35.99%	0	Bad or no credit	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
LendingPoint	$2,000 – $36,500	9.99% – 35.99%	580	$25,000 annual incomes	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
NextDayPersonalLoan	$100 – $40,000	Not Listed	Not Listed	Comparing bad credit loans	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Upgrade	$1,000 – $50,000	7.99% – 35.99%	580	High DTI ratios	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
PersonalLoans	$1,000 – $35,000	5.99% – 35.99%	580	Short and long-term personal loans	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
LendingTree	$1,000 – $50,000	2.49% – 35.99%	600	Obtaining a low APR	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
LendingClub	$1,000 – $40,000	7.04% – 35.89%	600	Fair credit scores, low DTI ratios	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Happy Money	$5,000 – $40,000	5.99% – 24.99%	550	A stable credit history	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
OneMain Financial	$1,500 – $20,000	18% – 35.99%	0	Low credit scores	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Avant	$2,000 – $35,000	9.95% – 35.99%	580	$20,000 annual incomes	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Peerform	$4,000 – $25,000	5.99% – 29.99%	600	Fair credit scores, low DTI ratios	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Oportun	$300 – $10,000	7.99% – 35.99%	0	Small loans	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Uprova	$300 – $5,000	34.5% – 35.99%	580	Avoiding loan origination fees	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
UniversalCredit	$1,000 – $50,000	8.93% – 35.93%	560	Low credit scores, high DTI ratios	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect

If you have fair credit, it’s challenging to obtain a cheap personal loan from a bank. For context, they typically lend to Americans with credit scores of 700 or more. However, if you have a credit score in the 600 to 690 range, don’t fret. There are plenty of affordable options available in the marketplace, and you don’t have to settle for a payday loan. For example, loan companies like Upstart, Avant, LendingTree, Upgrade, and others can help you obtain a low-cost personal loan with flexible terms.

But how do they work?

Well, first, it’s essential to define a personal loan. With fixed annual percentage rates (APRs), personal loans let you borrow a sum of money and repay the funds with equal monthly payments over typical terms of one to five years. In addition, each monthly outlay includes a portion of your principal balance and the interest owed.

More importantly, personal loan APRs often range from 5.99% to 35.99%, though individuals with the highest credit scores often obtain the lowest rates. However, with a credit score in the 600 to 690 range, you can still qualify for an APR of 10% to 15%. As evidence, LendingTree’s July 2021 Personal Loan Offers Report found that borrowers with credit scores in the 640 to 679 range received an average APR of 22.74%. However, the top 10% of borrowers in this credit score range received an average APR of 10.94%. Thus, affordable options are available if you know where to look.

Furthermore, bad credit personal loans have APRs of 15% to 35.99%, and alternative payday loans have APRs of 100% or more. As a result, if you want to obtain the best fair credit personal loan in the shortest amount of time, please consult our marketplace. With a few clicks, you can browse dozens of lenders willing to help, and inquiring won’t impact your credit score. In addition, you can also read our reviews below to learn more about what kind of offers are available.

ElitePersonalFinance Marketplace

Upstart

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $75,000

APR

6.3% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

300

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

3 or 5 Years

Fees

Origination fee of 0% – 12% of the loan amount
Late payment fee of 5% of the past-due amount or $15, whichever is greater, if payment is more than 10 calendar days late
ACH return fee of $15 per occurrence
Returned check fee of $15 per occurrence
Paper copies fee of $10 if eSign consent is withdrawn and paper records are requested
No prepayment penalty
Exact fees are disclosed in the loan agreement and may vary by creditor, loan terms, and state

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must be a U.S. resident
Minimum annual income of $12,000 is required to apply
Must provide valid personal and financial information
Must have sufficient income and ability to repay the loan
Credit history and credit profile are considered
Debt-to-income ratio and existing debt obligations may be considered
Employment history and income stability may be considered
Upstart may consider W-2, self-employment, gig, freelance, retirement, disability, Social Security, pension, and other eligible income
Upstart's model considers income, employment, education, and other factors beyond credit history
No minimum educational attainment is required
Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry is performed if you proceed with the formal application
Additional documentation may be required
Minimum loan amounts vary by state: $3,100 in Georgia, $1,500 in Hawaii, and $7,000 in Massachusetts
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Upstart does not currently publish a current average funded personal-loan amount or average borrower credit score
Upstart had more than 4 million customers as of June 30, 2026
Upstart's underwriting model evaluates more than 2,500 variables
In a 2026 comparison using Upstart data from 2025, the Upstart model approved 41% more applicants and produced rates 33% lower than a hypothetical traditional model
More than 3 million borrowers had selected debt consolidation or credit-card refinancing as their use of funds as of June 30, 2026
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Low credit scores, high DTI ratios

Terms: Your loan amount will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will qualify for the full amount. Minimum loan amounts vary by state: GA ($3,100), HI ($2,100), MA ($7,000).

Although educational information is collected as part of Upstart’s rate check process, neither Upstart nor its bank partners have a minimum educational attainment requirement in order to be eligible for a loan.

The full range of available rates varies by state. A representative example of payment terms for a Personal Loan is as follows: a borrower receives a loan of $10,000 for a term of 60 months, with an interest rate of 18.44% and a 8.64% origination fee of $864, for an APR of 22.88%. In this example, the borrower will receive $9136 and will make 60 monthly payments of $257. Your APR will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will be approved.

If you accept your loan by 5pm EST (not including weekends or holidays), you will receive your funds the next business day. Loans used to fund education related expenses are subject to a 3 business day wait period between loan acceptance and funding in accordance with federal law.

While most loans through Upstart are unsecured, certain lenders may place a lien on other accounts you hold with the same institution. It is important to review your promissory note for these details before accepting your loan.

When you check your rate, we check your credit report. This initial (soft) inquiry will not affect your credit score. If you accept your rate and proceed with your application, we do another (hard) credit inquiry that will impact your credit score. If you take out a loan, repayment information may be reported to the credit bureaus.

The APR calculation compares the two models based on the average APR offered to borrowers up to the same approval rate. The hypothetical credit-score only model used in Upstart’s analysis was developed in connection with the CFPB No Action Letter access-to-credit testing program and was built from a traditional credit score only model trained on Upstart platform data. APR for the scorecard was averaged for each given traditional credit score grouping.

While automated recurring payments are easy to set up, payments by check or one time electronic payments can also be used to repay a loan. Borrowers have the flexibility to choose the repayment method that works best for them.

This information is based on actual borrowers as of 4/1/2023 who identified “credit card refinancing” as their primary use of funds and paid off at least 51% of their outstanding credit card debt within 3 months of taking out the loan. Out of these actual borrowers, some could have experienced an increase or decrease in their credit score. This information reflects the overall average change in credit score points experienced by this group of borrowers as identified above.

The majority of borrowers on the Upstart marketplace are able to receive an instant decision upon submitting a completed application, without providing additional supporting documents, however final approval is conditioned upon passing the hard credit inquiry. Loan processing may be subject to longer wait times if additional documentation is required for review.

Home to artificial intelligence (AI) and an underwriting algorithm that increases approval rates and lowers APRs, Upstart uses alternative data like job history and education to determine your eligibility. As a result, if you have a fair credit score, other factors can help you obtain a cheaper-than-normal personal loan.

Upstart is neither a comparison site nor a direct lender. Instead, Upstart is a peer-to-peer (P2P) lender like LendingClub, Happy Money, and Peerform. To help you obtain financing, Upstart lets investors match their risk tolerances with borrowers’ credit scores. And since you can qualify with a credit score of at least 300, Upstart is one of the best lenders for fair and bad credit.

Also, Upstart lets you borrow $1,000 to $75,000, with APRs of 6.6% to 35.99% and terms of three to five years. However, minimum loan amounts vary by state, and borrowers in Georgia ($3,100), Hawaii ($2,100), Massachusetts ($7,000), New Mexico ($5,100), and Ohio ($6,000) have higher starting balances. In addition, the average APR for a five-year loan is 23.98%. However, unlike the other P2P lenders on our list, you should be able to access Upstart’s services in all states.

Pros:

Upstart can help you land a personal loan of $1,000 to $75,000.
Affordable APRs of 6.6% to 35.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of three to five years are available.
Upstart often has higher approval rates and lower APRs than many competitors.
You should be able to access Upstart’s services in all states.
Like Happy Money, Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Upstart’s loan origination fee is 0% to 12%.
Upstart’s insufficient funds fee is $15.
Upstart’s paper document fee is $10.
Upstart’s late payment fee is the greater of $15, or 5% of the amount due, after a 15-day grace period.
Minimum loan amounts vary by state.

The impact of COVID-19:

If you need to pause your loan payments because of the pandemic or due to other financial difficulties, you can submit an online request through Upstart’s website. In addition, you can also call the lender at 1-855-451-6753.

LendingPoint

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $36,500

APR

7.99% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

24 Months – 72 Months

Fees

Origination fee of up to 10% of the loan amount may apply depending on the state
Origination fee may be deducted from the loan proceeds
No application fee
No prepayment penalty
No fee for making extra payments
Actual fees depend on state of residence and loan offer
Actual APR and fees depend on credit profile, financial condition, loan amount, term, and other underwriting factors

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must provide a U.S. federal, state, or local government-issued photo ID
Must have a valid Social Security number
Must have minimum annual income of $35,000 from employment, retirement, or another qualifying source
Must have a verifiable personal banking account in your name
Must not reside in Nevada or West Virginia
Credit profile and credit history are considered
Debt-to-income ratio may be considered
Payment-to-income ratio may be considered
Financial condition and ability to repay are evaluated
Checking your options uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry is required for final loan approval
Additional documentation may be requested
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

LendingPoint does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
LendingPoint serves consumers across a broad range of credit profiles
The loan amount offered is based on the applicant's credit profile and financial information
Current DTI and PTI are specifically considered when determining affordability
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

$25,000 annual incomes

LendingPoint contrasts the companies above because it’s a direct lender and not a comparison site. The difference is that LendingPoint issues loans directly, while the other companies help connect you with third-party lenders. However, the product you receive is essentially the same.

LendingPoint provides personal loans that range from $2,000 to $36,500, with APRs of 9.99% to 35.99%. Moreover, terms range from two to five years. To qualify, you need to have an annual income of at least $25,000. For context, this includes employment, self-employment, and government benefits. However, like Avant, Uprova, and PersonaLoans, LendingPoint has a minimum credit score requirement of 580. Therefore, it’s a great option if you fall between fair and bad credit.

However, like OneMain Financial and Upstart, LendingPoint requires borrowers in Georgia ($3,500) to take out higher loan minimums. And like Avant, financing is unavailable in both Nevada and West Virginia. As a result, borrowers in these regions should consult the other lenders on our list.

Pros:

LendingPoint can help you land a personal loan of $2,000 to $36,500.
Flexible repayment schedules of two to five years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

LendingPoint’s loan origination fee is 0% to 6%.
LendingPoint’s late payment fee is up to $30.
LendingPoint’s insufficient funds fee is $20.
Like Avant, LendingPoint does not issue loans in Nevada or West Virginia.

The impact of COVID-19:

LendingPoint doesn’t reference any specific hardship policies. However, you can call the lender at 1-888-969-0959 or send an email to customerservice@lendingpoint .com to learn more about your options.

ZippyLoan

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$100 – $15,000

APR

5.99% - 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

1 Month – 72 Months

Fees

No fee to use ZippyLoan's loan-connecting service
No hidden fees for using ZippyLoan
APR and loan fees are determined by the individual lender
Loan costs vary based on lender, state, loan amount, credit profile, and repayment terms
Late or missed payment fees may apply according to the lender's loan agreement
No prepayment penalty
All applicable lender fees and charges are disclosed in the lender's loan agreement

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must provide proof of identity
Must have a regular source of income
Must provide personal, income, employment, and banking information requested by the lender
All credit types may be considered
Credit score and credit history may be considered
Monthly income may be considered
State of residence may affect eligibility
Lenders may verify identity, income, employment, bank-account information, and credit information
Final eligibility requirements are determined by the individual lender
Not available to residents of New York, West Virginia, or Oregon
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

ZippyLoan does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
ZippyLoan does not publish a current average borrower credit score
The lender network includes lenders serving excellent, average, and poor credit profiles
Credit history, income, state of residence, requested loan amount, and other information may affect available offers
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender

Best For

Bad or no credit

ZippyLoan is another excellent comparison site that helps you obtain safe and legit financing. For example, loan amounts range from $100 to $15,000, with typical terms of six months to five years. However, like NextDayPersonalLoan, you need to apply to see lenders’ APRs, and they often vary depending on your credit score.

ZipplyLoan’s financing example shows APRs of 12% to 35.99%, and only direct lenders like OneMain Financial and Uprova have higher low-end APRs. However, ZipplyLoan’s high-end APR of 35.99% meets the requirement for personal loans, so borrowers with credit scores near the low-end of the fair credit range should consider applying. And ZipplyLoan has a minimum credit score requirement of 0. Like OneMain Financial and Opportun, it’s one of three lenders on our list that explicitly approves borrowers with no credit score. Therefore, if you have bad credit, ZipplyLoan is one of the best options available. However, loans are not available in West Virginia, Oregon, New York, or the District of Columbia.

Pros:

Lenders on ZippyLoan’s site let you borrow $100 to $15,000.
Respectable APRs of 12% to 35.99% are available.
High loan amounts are available.
ZipplyLoan’s network of lenders competes for your business.
You can apply for small loans that cover emergencies.
Like OneMain Financial and Oportun, there is no minimum credit score requirement.
Checking your rate won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Like NextDayPersonalLoan, lenders on the platform determine the fees.
Some products’ APRs may exceed 35.99%.
Financing is not available in West Virginia, Oregon, New York, or the District of Columbia.

The impact of COVID-19:

Although ZippyLoan doesn’t have any specific programs related to the coronavirus pandemic, you can apply for a hardship exemption. To do so, please contact a representative at 1-844-379-8621 or send an email to support@zippyloan.com.

NextDayPersonalLoan

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$100 – $40,000

APR

5.99% - 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

1 Month - 180 Months

Fees

NextDayPersonalLoan does not charge a fee for its loan-connecting service
APR, interest charges, and lender fees vary by lender and loan offer
Late payment, nonpayment, rollover, and other fees may apply according to the lender's agreement
Actual fees are disclosed by the lender before the borrower accepts a loan
NextDayPersonalLoan does not determine lender fees or loan terms
No prepayment fee is stated by NextDayPersonalLoan; any applicable prepayment terms are determined by the lender

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18 or the age of majority in the applicant's state
Must be a U.S. resident
Typically, monthly income of at least $1,000 may be required
Typically, applicants should have current employment for at least 4 weeks
Must have a current bank account in the applicant's name
Must provide current, valid home and work telephone numbers
Must provide requested personal, banking, employment, and income information
Credit history, credit score, income, employment history, loan amount, loan term, and state may be considered
All credit types may be considered
Credit checks may be performed by participating lenders
Not available to residents of Connecticut, New Hampshire, Washington, or Vermont
Not available to active members of the military
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

NextDayPersonalLoan does not publish a current average borrower profile
The marketplace considers applicants across a range of credit profiles
Historically, most users presented with a loan offer were offered a short-term loan between $100 and $2,500
Participating lenders may consider credit history, income, employment, loan amount, loan term, and state
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender and the borrower's qualifications

Best For

Comparing bad credit loans

NextDayPersonalLoan connects applicants with some of the best lenders in the business. You can borrow anywhere from $100 to $40,000, and applying won’t impact your credit score. Moreover, the company helps streamline your search. For example, NextDayPersonalLoan is a comparison site and not a direct lender. But like ZippyLoan, Even Financial, and LendingTree, its technology allows you to view multiple loans in one place. Therefore, you can find affordable financing without doing all of the homework yourself.

However, like ZippyLoan, APRs and fees vary by lender, so you need to review their proposals to determine the applicable rates. But reputable comparison sites like PersonalLoans also have similar policies, so it’s pretty standard in the marketplace. Also, NextDayPersonalLoan should provide services in all states, and the company doesn’t list any regional restrictions.

Pros:

Lenders on NextDayPersonalLoan’s site let you borrow $100 to $40,000.
High loan amounts are available.
NextDayPersonalLoan’s network of lenders competes for your business.
You can apply for small loans that cover emergencies.
NextDayPersonalLoan’s services should be available in all states.
Checking your rate won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Like ZippyLoan, lenders on the platform determine the fees.
You need to apply to see lenders’ APRs.
Small-dollar loans will likely incur APRs similar to payday loans.

The impact of COVID-19:

Since NextDayPersonalLoan is a comparison site, it can’t amend loan agreements. As a result, you should contact your lender directly to determine if forbearance or hardship programs are available. In addition, you can also call NextDayPersonalLoan at 1-866-829-4551 for helpful advice.

Upgrade

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $50,000

APR

7.74% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

580

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

24 Months – 84 Months

Fees

Origination fee of 1.85% – 9.99% of the loan amount
Origination fee is deducted from the loan proceeds
Late payment fee of up to $10 if the full payment is not received within 15 calendar days of the due date
Failed electronic or check payment fee of $10 per occurrence
One-time title transfer fee may apply to certain secured loans; amount is determined by the local motor vehicle agency
No application fee
No prepayment penalty

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18, or 19 in Alabama and certain other states
Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or living in the U.S. on a valid visa
Must provide a verifiable bank account
Must provide a valid email address
Credit score, credit usage, and credit history are considered
Income and employment information are considered during the final review
Debt-to-income ratio and existing debt obligations may be considered
May be required to provide proof of income, identity, employment, or other documentation
W-2 employees may provide gross income; self-employed applicants may provide net income
Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry occurs after the loan is funded
Certain secured loan offers may require collateral
Loan amounts and terms may vary by state
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Upgrade does not currently publish a verified average funded personal-loan amount or average borrower credit score
Loan offers depend on credit score, credit usage history, income, requested loan amount, and other financial information
Upgrade's current personal-loan product is designed for borrowers across a range of credit profiles
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

High DTI ratios

Upgrade is another reputable lender that provides access to the best personal loans for fair credit. For example, qualifying borrowers can obtain $1,000 to $50,000, with APRs that range from 7.99% to 35.99%. In addition, terms of two to seven years are available, and like UniversalCredit, you only need a minimum credit score of 580 to get started. Also, UniversalCredit is a partner company of Upgrade, and the former is more suitable if you have bad credit. In addition, UniversalCredit’s approved borrowers have a lower average credit score and income than Upgrade. Therefore, it may be more willing to extend financing if you have a weaker credit profile.

Conversely, if you have a credit score of 600 or more, Upgrade is a great place to start. And since there is plenty of competition in the marketplace, APRs in the 10% to 15% range should be available. However, Upgrade does not issue credit in Washington, D.C., or West Virginia. And like Avant and LendingClub, borrowers in Iowa are also restricted from applying.

Pros:

Like UniversalCredit, Upgrade can help you land a personal loan of $1,000 to $50,000.
Affordable APRs of 7.99% to 35.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of two to seven years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Upgrade’s loan origination fee is 1.85% to 9.99%.
Upgrade’s insufficient funds fee is $10.
Upgrade’s late payment fee is $10 after a 15-day grace period.
Financing is not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

Upgrade provided loan assistance to borrowers dealing with financial hardship throughout the pandemic. And if you still require relief, Upgrade recommends that you log into your account to connect with a representative. Likewise, you can also call Upgrade at 1-844-319-3909 or send an email to support@upgrade.com.

Upgrade Disclaimer:

Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 7.74%-35.99% and a 1.85%-9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. For certain discounts, collateral may be required. Repayment terms from 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 unsecured 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 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 and other terms of your loan may vary and you may not be presented with multiple offers. If offered, your loan terms, including your rate, will depend on credit score, credit usage history, loan amount, and other factors. Late payments or other fees, as noted in your Borrower Agreement, may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. Certain loan offers may not be available in all states.

After acceptance, your funds will be sent within one (1) business day of clearing necessary verifications. Funds availability is dependent upon your bank’s transaction processing time and may take up to 2 weeks if sent directly to third party creditors.

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Happy Money

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$5,000 – $50,000

APR

8.95% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

24 Months – 60 Months

Fees

Origination fee of 2% – 12% may apply
The origination fee is deducted from the loan proceeds
No application fee
No early or extra payment fees
No check processing fees
No returned check fees
No annual fees
Late, bounced-check, failed-ACH, or other lender fees may apply according to the applicable loan agreement
Actual origination fee depends on loan amount, term, and credit quality

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must have a valid Social Security number
Must have a valid checking account
Must meet the credit-review and underwriting requirements of Happy Money's lending partners
Credit score and credit history are considered
Income is considered
Existing debt levels and credit usage are considered
Loan amount and term depend on the applicant's financial profile
State of residence may affect eligibility and available rates
Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry appears when the loan is issued
Currently, loans are not offered in Iowa or Nevada
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Happy Money does not currently publish a current average funded-loan amount or average borrower credit score
Happy Money has served more than 350,000 customers
Happy Money has facilitated more than $7 billion toward customers' financial goals
The Payoff Loan is primarily designed for credit-card debt consolidation
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Low APR

Happy Money is a lot like Upstart, LendingClub, and Peerform because it’s a P2P lender. However, the company can still help you find the best personal loans for fair credit. Investors on the platform offer $5,000 to $40,000, with APRs of 5.99% to 24.99% and terms of two to five years. Moreover, Happy Money is the only lender on our list that doesn’t charge late payment fees, and like Even Financial, you can apply with a credit score as low as 550.

However, the lender’s qualification criteria are stricter than its competitors. For example, you need a credit history that spans three years or more, and you can’t have any current delinquencies. Furthermore, Happy Money is also like Upstart because loan minimums vary by state. For example, you have to borrow at least $5,100 in New Mexico and $6,100 in Maryland. In addition, Happy Money doesn’t provide loans in Massachusetts, and like Avant and LendingPoint, borrowers in Nevada can’t apply.

Pros:

Happy Money can help you land a personal loan of $5,000 to $40,000
Affordable APRs of 5.99% to 24.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of two to five years are available.
You don’t have to worry about late payment fees.
Loan proceeds sent to creditors for debt consolidation can receive APR discounts of 0.25% to 1%.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Happy Money’s loan origination fee is 0% to 5%.
You need to borrow at least $5,000.
You need a more extended credit history than some other lenders.
You can’t apply if you live in Massachusetts or Nevada.

The impact of COVID-19:

Happy Money has relief programs that can help borrowers dealing with COVID-19 disruptions or other means of financial hardship. To inquire about the available options, you can call Happy Money at 1-949-346-8740 or send an email to success@happymoney.com.

PersonalLoans

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$250 – $35,000

APR

5.99% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

1 Months – 72 Months

Fees

No fee to use PersonalLoans.com's loan-connecting service
Origination fee may apply and is determined by the individual lender
Other lender fees may apply depending on the loan offer and agreement
Late payment fees may apply according to the lender's terms
Returned payment and other lender fees may apply
PersonalLoans.com does not determine lender fees or loan costs
All applicable fees must be disclosed by the lender before the borrower accepts the loan

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must have a valid Social Security number
Must be a legal U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Must have full-time employment, be self-employed, or receive regular disability or Social Security benefits
Must have a valid checking account for most loan offers
No minimum credit score is required to submit a loan request
Must generally not have accounts more than 60 days late
Must generally not have active or recent bankruptcies
Must generally not have a pattern of late payments
Must generally not have debt that cannot be covered by current income
Must generally not have recently charged-off accounts
Some lenders may require income verification such as a pay stub
Individual lenders may have additional eligibility requirements
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

PersonalLoans.com does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount or average borrower credit score
The lender network accepts loan requestors with all credit scores
Applicants with good or excellent credit may receive more favorable terms
PersonalLoans.com states that its network generally serves borrowers with different credit profiles
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender and the borrower's qualifications

Best For

Short and long-term personal loans

As another excellent option for borrowers that don’t want to be stuck conducting research, PersonalLoans is like Even Financial because it’s a well-known comparison site that helps you find tailored offers that fit your budget. For example, lenders on the site extend financing from $1,000 to $35,000, with APRs that range from 5.99% to 35.99%. You can also repay your loan over maturities that range from 90 days to six years, and like Avant, Uprova, and LendingPoint, you shouldn’t have any trouble obtaining financing if you have a credit score of at least 580. However, most qualifying borrowers have at least $2,000 in monthly income.

Furthermore, PersonalLoans is excellent if you want loans for short and long-term purposes since most personal loan providers have terms of one to five years. However, with maturities of 90 days and up, PersonalLoans helps you find the perfect loan for any task. And like Even Financial, you should be able to access PersonalLoans’ services in all states. Therefore, if you need a short-term loan with an affordable APR, PersonalLoans may be right. However, you can’t go wrong with either option.

Pros:

Lenders on PersonalLoans’ site offer financing of $1,000 to $35,000.
Affordable APRs of 5.99% to 35.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of 90 days to six years are available.
Like Even Financial, you should be able to access PersonalLoans’ services in all states.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Lenders on PersonalLoans’ site have 1% to 5% loan origination fees.
Other fees vary by lender.

The impact of COVID-19:

Since PersonalLoans is a comparison site, it doesn’t issue loans directly. Moreover, the lenders on PersonalLoans platform determine their deferral and forbearance policies independently. As a result, you need to contact your lender directly to determine the available options.

LendingTree

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $50,000

APR

Varies by Lender

Min. Credit Score

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

Varies by Lender

Fees

No fee to compare personal-loan offers through LendingTree
Origination fees may apply depending on the lender and loan offer
Origination fees vary by lender, loan amount, and repayment term
Late payment fees may apply according to the lender's loan agreement
Returned payment and other lender fees may apply
LendingTree does not determine lender fees, APRs, or loan terms
All applicable fees are disclosed by the individual lender before accepting an offer

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18 or the age of majority in the applicant's state
No universal minimum credit score applies across the LendingTree marketplace
Must provide accurate personal, income, employment, and financial information
Credit score and credit history may be considered
Annual income may be considered
Debt-to-income ratio may be considered
Length of credit history may be considered
Employment stability may be considered
Loan amount and requested repayment term may affect eligibility
Checking offers generally uses a soft credit inquiry
A hard credit inquiry may be required by the selected lender during final approval
Each lender has its own qualification and underwriting requirements
Not all applicants will receive an offer

Average Borrower Profile

LendingTree users who received at least one personal-loan offer in 2025 had an average credit score of 653
The average self-reported income was $70,551
The average requested loan amount was $14,365
The average age of the oldest credit account was 11.5 years
The average offered loan amount across all credit scores was $13,575 in Q2 2026
Average offered amount was $17,715 for excellent credit, $10,045 for fair credit, and $7,766 for poor credit
These figures represent LendingTree marketplace users and lender offers, not guaranteed funded-loan amounts

Best For

Obtaining a low APR

As one of the most well-known loan comparison sites, LendingTree partners with companies like Upstart, Happy Money, and LendingPoint. When you visit the site, you can input your specific metrics and browse the available options that meet your criteria. Moreover, anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 is available, and APRs of 2.49% to 35.99% are pretty respectable. As a rough estimate of what you can expect, LendingTree breaks down its average APRs by credit score:

760 or more often results in an average APR of 8.83%.
720 to 759 often results in an average APR of 12.95%.
680 to 719 often results in an average APR of 17.54%.
640 to 679 often results in an average APR of 22.74%.

Thus, LendingTree is like LendingClub and Peerform because it has a minimum credit score requirement of 600. However, platform lenders like Upstart and Happy Money have minimum credit score requirements of 300 and 550. As a result, applicants with credit scores below 600 may qualify under certain circumstances. Also, you should be able to access LendingTree’s services in all states. However, if you want to shop around and increase your chances of obtaining a lower APR, please consult our marketplace.

Pros:

Financiers on LendingTree’s site offer loans of $1,000 to $50,000.
Affordable APRs of 2.49% to 35.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of one to five years are available.
You should be able to access LendingTree’s services in all states.
Like PersonalLoans, applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Financiers on LendingTree’s site have loan origination fees of 0% to 3%.
Other charges vary by lender.

The impact of COVID-19:

Since LendingTree is a comparison site, it doesn’t issue loans directly. Moreover, the lenders on LendingTree’s platform determine their deferral and forbearance policies independently. As a result, you need to contact your lender directly to determine the available options. For more information, LendingTree created an exhaustive list outlining lenders’ recent policies.

OneMain Financial

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,500 – $30,000

APR

11.99% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

24 Months – 60 Months

Fees

Origination fee of 1% – 10% of the loan amount, or a flat fee of $25 – $500, depending on state
Late payment fee of $5 – $30, or 1.5% – 15% of the payment or delinquent portion, depending on state and applicable law
Returned check fee of $25
Lien recording fee may apply to secured loans
Title/request-for-title fees may apply to secured auto loans
UCC financing statement filing and release fees may apply to secured loans
Reasonable attorney fees may apply for judicial action where permitted by the loan agreement
No prepayment penalty

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must meet OneMain Financial's credit and underwriting requirements
No single minimum credit score is required
Must have sufficient income to support the requested loan payment
Income, monthly expenses, and ability to repay are considered
Credit history and overall financial picture are considered
Must provide proof of identity
Must provide proof of residence
Must provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns
Employment and income stability may be considered
Secured and unsecured loan options may be available
Collateral may be required for certain loan offers
Loan amount, APR, fees, and eligibility can vary by state
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

OneMain Financial does not currently publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
OneMain works with borrowers across a wide range of credit scores
Credit score is not the only factor considered; OneMain evaluates the borrower's overall financial picture
Income, expenses, credit history, and ability to repay may affect the loan offer
Borrowers may qualify for secured or unsecured loan options
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state

Best For

Low credit scores

Bad credit lenders like ZippyLoan and Oportun often compete with OneMain Financial. For example, all three have a minimum credit score requirement of 0, and their low-end APRs are higher than most of the lenders on our list. As a result, if your credit score is closer to poor than fair, all three can help you obtain an affordable personal loan.

OneMain Financial lets you borrow anywhere from $1,500 to $20,000, with APRs of 18% to 35.99% and terms of two to five years. And like ZippyLoan and Oportun, applying won’t impact your credit profile.

However, borrowers in Alabama ($2,100), California ($3,000), North Dakota ($2,000), Ohio ($2,000), and Virginia ($2,600) have higher loan minimums. And like Upstart and LendingPoint, applicants in Georgia also have to borrow more than the stated minimum ($3,100 unless you’re a current customer). In addition, the maximum loan amount in North Carolina is $7.500 for new customers, and OneMain Financial currently provides financing in 44 states.

Pros:

OneMain Financial can help you land a personal loan of $1,500 to $20,000.
Flexible repayment schedules of two to five years are available.
Like ZippyLoan and Oportun, there is no minimum credit score requirement.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

OneMain Financial’s low-end APR is higher than other lenders on our list.
OneMain Financial’s loan origination fee is 1% to 10%, or $25 to $500.
OneMain Financial’s late payment fee is 1.5% to 15%, or $5 to $30.
OneMain Financial’s insufficient funds fee is $10 to $50.
Minimum and maximum loan amounts vary by state.
Financing is not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

To help its customers stay afloat during the pandemic, OneMain Financial offered payment deferrals and waived late fees. In addition, the loan company also donated funds to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). And if you find yourself requiring further assistance, OneMain Financial recommends that you call the loan company at 1-800-961-5577.

Avant

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$2,000 – $35,000

APR

9.95% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

550

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

24 Months – 60 Months

Fees:

Administration fee of up to 9.99% of the loan amount
Administration fee is deducted from the loan proceeds
Administration fee is treated as part of the loan principal and accrues interest
No application fee
No prepayment penalty
Late payment fees may apply according to the applicable state and loan agreement
Returned or dishonored payment fees may apply according to the applicable state and loan agreement
Actual fees may vary based on state law and the loan agreement

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must have a valid personal checking or savings account
Must provide verifiable personal and financial information
Credit score, credit history, income, and employment stability may be considered
Outstanding debt and ability to repay may be considered
A credit score as low as 550 may qualify
Avant customers typically have credit scores between 550 and 700
Checking your loan options does not impact your credit score
Additional documentation may be requested during the application process
Loan eligibility, minimum loan amount, APR, and terms may vary by state
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

Avant customers who take out personal loans typically have credit scores between 550 and 700
Borrowers with credit scores as low as 550 may qualify
Income, employment stability, outstanding debt, and credit history may affect eligibility
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state

Best For

$20,000 annual incomes

Rivaling competitors like LendingPoint, Uprova, and PersonaLoans, Avant has a minimum credit score requirement of 580. Therefore, it’s a great option if you have less-than-stellar credit. However, Avant states that most approved borrowers have credit scores in the 600 to 700 range.

You can borrow anywhere from $2,000 to $35,000, with APRs of 9.99% to 35.99% and terms of two to five years. Avant’s low-end APRs are higher than its main competitors, but like PersonaLoans and LendingPoint, the maximum loan amount is in the mid-$30,000 range. As a result, if your credit score is closer to good than fair and you need to borrow $35,000, PersonaLoans may help you obtain the cheapest rate.

In addition, you need an annual income of $20,000 or more to qualify. And like LendingPoint, Avant doesn’t accept applicants in West Virginia or Nevada. Furthermore, financing is unavailable in Vermont, Colorado, New York, Hawaii, and Iowa. But Avant is highly transparent about its terms and fees, which is a plus in our book. Thus, you can trust the company if you need a reliable personal loan.

Pros:

Avant can help you land a personal loan of $2,000 to $36,500.
Flexible repayment schedules of two to five years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Avant’s low-end APR is higher than other lenders on our list.
Avant’s loan origination fee is up to 4.75%.
Avant’s late payment fee is up to $25 after a 10-day grace period.
Avant’s insufficient funds fee is $15.
Loans are not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

Avant offered relief programs to help support struggling borrowers throughout the pandemic. Moreover, if you find yourself unable to make your scheduled loan payments, you can call the lender at 1-800-712-5407. In addition, you can also send an email to support@avant.com.

LendingClub

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $60,000

APR

5.96% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

24 Months – 84 Months

Fees

Origination/processing fee of 0% – 8% of the loan amount
Origination/processing fee is determined at the time of application
No application fee to check your rate
No prepayment penalty
Late payment fees may apply according to the loan agreement
Other fees may apply depending on the loan agreement and state
Actual APR, fees, loan amount, and terms depend on creditworthiness, loan amount, term, and other factors

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must meet LendingClub Bank's credit and underwriting requirements
Must provide accurate personal and financial information
Credit history and creditworthiness are considered
Income and debt obligations may be considered
Debt-to-income ratio and ability to repay may be evaluated
Applicants may be required to provide proof of income or other supporting documents
Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry may occur if the loan is issued
Some applicants may apply with a co-borrower
Sufficient investor commitment may be required for loan funding
Loan amounts, APRs, and terms may vary by state
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Average loan principal: $19,234
Average APR: 17.63%
Average origination fee: 6%
Average loan term: 36 Months
These figures are based on LendingClub borrower data from April 2025 through June 2025
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Smooth Online Experience

LendingClub checks off many of the boxes that determine a reliable lender. And with personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $40,000 and APRs of 7.04% to 35.89% LendingClub is a gateway to affordable financing. In addition, like Upstart, Happy Money, and Peerform, LendingClub is a P2P lender that connects borrowers with investors. As a result, while its minimum credit score requirement of 600 is like LendingTree and Peerform’s minimum standard, investors with higher risk tolerances may be willing to lend to borrowers with slightly lower credit scores. Thus, it’s prudent to apply if you’re right on the borderline.

You can choose from maturities that range from three to five years, and while undisclosed late payment fees often apply, there is a 15-day grace period. Moreover, while qualification disclosures are limited, a steady income and a respectable credit score should be enough to have LendingClub seriously consider your application. However, like Avant and Upgrade, loans are unavailable in Iowa.

Pros:

LendingClub can help you land a personal loan of $1,000 to $40,000.
Affordable APRs of 7.04% to 35.89% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of three to five years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

LendingClub’s loan origination fee is 3% to 6%.
You may incur a late payment fee after a 15-day grace period.
Like Avant and Upgrade, you can’t apply if you live in Iowa.

The impact of COVID-19:

LendingClub offered delayed payment programs to members in financial need during the pandemic. If you want to apply for relief, you can call LendingClub’s special care line at 1-877-644-4446.

Peerform

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$100 – $3,000

APR

Varies by Lender

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

Varies by Lender

Fees:

No fee to submit a loan request through Peerform
Origination fees are determined by the individual lender
Interest and finance charges are determined by the individual lender
Late payment fees may apply according to the lender's loan agreement
Renewal or rollover fees may apply where permitted by the lender
Any applicable fees must be disclosed by the lender before the loan is accepted
Peerform does not determine lender fees, APRs, or repayment terms
No prepayment fee is specified by Peerform; applicable terms depend on the lender

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must provide the personal and financial information requested in the application
Must provide valid identification information
Must provide banking information for loan funding
Ability to repay the loan may be considered by the lender
Credit history may be reviewed by participating lenders
Some lenders may use traditional credit bureaus such as Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion
Some lenders may use alternative credit bureaus
Income and other financial information may be considered
Individual lenders determine their own eligibility requirements
Peerform does not make credit or loan decisions
Loan availability varies by state
Not all applicants will be connected with a lender
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

Peerform does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
Peerform does not publish a current average borrower credit score
The lender network may consider borrowers with poor or limited credit
Participating lenders may consider income, credit history, ability to repay, and other financial information
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the individual lender

Best For

Fair credit scores, low DTI ratios

Peerform’s P2P loans are like Upstart, Happy Money, and LendingClub’s products. The money comes from individuals, groups of individuals, or institutional investors, and Peerform handles the approval process and services the loans. You can borrow anywhere from $4,000 to $25,000, with APRs of 5.99% to 29.99% and terms of three to five years. And like Happy Money, Peerform’s high-end APRs are below 35.99%. Therefore, both P2P companies are great for borderline borrowers who often obtain APRs near the high-end ranges.

However, like LendingTree and LendingClub, you need a credit score of at least 600 to qualify. In addition, you must have a DTI ratio of less than 40%, at least one bank account and revolving credit line, and one year of credit history. Furthermore, you can’t have any delinquencies, bankruptcies, collections, or tax liens within the last 12 months. Also, applicants in New York and Colorado can’t obtain loans with APRs that exceed 15.99% and 12%, respectively. In addition, you can’t use Peerform if you live in West Virginia, North Dakota, Vermont, Wyoming, Washington, D.C., or Connecticut.

Pros:

Peerform can help you land a personal loan of $4,000 to $25,000.
Affordable APRs of 5.99% to 29.99% are available.
Flexible repayment schedules of three to five years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Peerform’s loan origination fee is 1% to 5%.
Peerform’s late payment fee is the greater of $15, or 5% of the amount due after a 15-day grace period.
Peerform’s insufficient funds fee is $15.
Peerform’s check processing fee is $15.
Financing is not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

Peerform doesn’t reference any specific hardship policies. However, you can call the lender at 1-800-338-8049 or send an email to support@peerform.com to learn more about your options.

Oportun

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$2,525 – $18,500

APR

Varies by Lender

Min. Credit Score

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

24 Months – 64 Months

Fees

Administrative fee of up to 10% of the loan principal
The administrative fee may be lower depending on loan size and term
Administrative fee is included in the loan cost and APR calculation
No prepayment penalty
No balloon payment
Payments are generally scheduled biweekly or semi-monthly
Actual loan costs and fees vary by loan amount, term, state, and lending partner

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must provide a valid Social Security number or applicable identification
Must provide verifiable income
Income is verified for all applicants
Must demonstrate the ability to repay the loan
Credit history is not required to qualify
Credit reports are requested and considered for all applicants
Debt obligations and income may be considered
Employment and financial information may be reviewed
Must provide requested personal, banking, and identification information
Prequalification does not affect your credit score
A credit inquiry is performed when you submit the application for final approval
Loan availability, amount, and terms vary by applicant and state
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

The average unsecured personal loan originated by Oportun during Q1 2026 was $3,360
The weighted-average term at origination was 38 months
The weighted-average APR at origination was 35.3%
Oportun does not publish a current average borrower credit score
Oportun verifies income and evaluates ability to repay for all applicants
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications and state

Best For

Small loans

Oportun is like ZippyLoan and OneMain Financial because it has a minimum credit score requirement of 0. However, Oportun’s loans are capped at $10,000, while ZippyLoan and OneMain Financial offer up to $15,000 and $20,000, respectively. Conversely, Oportun’s low-end APR is 7.99%, while ZippyLoan and OneMain Financial’s are 12% and 18%. As a result, there is a trade-off between loan amounts and APRs, and the best option depends on your specific needs. For context, borrowers in select states with excellent credit scores can obtain a low APR of 7.99%. However, this option isn’t available in all states, and APRs of 30%+ are more common.

Oportun lets you borrow anywhere from $300 to $10,000, with APRs of 7.99% to 35.99% and terms of one to four years. In addition, with loan amounts starting at $300, Oportun is one of the best options available if you need a small cash infusion and don’t want to incur alternative payday loan APRs of 36% or more. However, personal loans of more than $6,000 are not available for new customers in 11 states.

Pros:

Oportun can help you land a personal loan of $300 to $10,000.
Affordable APRs of 7.99% to 35.99% are available in select states.
Flexible repayment schedules of one to four years are available.
Like ZippyLoan and OneMain Financial, there is no minimum credit score requirement.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Oportun’s loan origination fee is $0 to $300.
Oportun’s late payment fee is the lesser of $10, or 5% of the amount due after a 10-day grace period.
Oportun’s insufficient funds fee is $15.
Oportun’s administrative fee is $75 for loans greater than $5,000.
Loans are not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

To help its customers forge through the pandemic, Oportun offered financial assistance to qualifying borrowers. Moreover, if you find yourself unable to make your payments, Oportun recommends that you call the loan company at 1-866-488-6090.

Uprova

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$300 – $5,000

APR

Varies by Lender

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

9 Months – 36 Months

Fees:

No application fee
No origination fee
No prepayment penalty
No hidden fees
Finance charges are prorated if the loan is paid in full before the due date
Late-payment and insufficient-funds consequences are governed by the Consumer Loan & Arbitration Agreement
Actual finance charges, APR, repayment schedule, and other loan costs are disclosed in the Consumer Loan & Arbitration Agreement
No collateral is required

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must be a U.S. resident
Must have steady employment income or regular qualifying benefits
Must have an active checking account in the applicant's name
Must provide personal and financial information required for underwriting
No minimum credit score is required to apply
Credit information may be reviewed as part of the underwriting process
Income, ability to repay, and overall financial information are considered
Applicants with bad or limited credit may still qualify
Applicants with more than two active loans from alternative lenders cannot be assisted
Only one Uprova loan may be outstanding at a time
Availability and eligibility vary based on location and underwriting requirements
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

Uprova does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
Uprova serves borrowers across the credit spectrum, including borrowers with poor or no credit
Returning customers who qualify may receive higher loan amounts, lower APRs, and longer terms
Uprova's current VIP program reports approval rates 24.5% higher than for first-time borrowers
VIP customers qualify for lower APRs 20% more often than first-time borrowers
Actual loan amount, APR, finance charges, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Avoiding loan origination fees

Like ZippyLoan, Oportun, and NexyDayPersonalLoan, Uprova is one of five lenders on our list that provide financing of less than $1,000. Loans range from $300 to $5,000, with APRs of 34.5% to 35.99%, and terms of nine months to three years. And like Avant, LendingPoint, and PersonaLoans, the minimum credit score to qualify is 580. However, since financing maxes at $5,000, applicants in need of larger loans should look elsewhere.

As a positive, Uprova is the only lender on our list that doesn’t charge loan origination fees. For context, companies subtract the charge from your loan amount. So if you take out a $10,000 loan with a 3% origination fee, you receive the net proceeds of $9,700, and you pay interest on the gross proceeds of $10,000. Therefore, avoiding it is beneficial. On top of that, there are no application or prepayment fees, but Uprova does charge a $25 insufficient funds fee and often levies late payment fees. Also, financing is only available in 28 states.

Pros:

Uprova extends credit of $300 to $5,000.
Uprova’s personal loans have APRs of 34.5% to 35.99%.
There are no loan origination fees.
Checking your rate won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

Late payment fees often apply.
A $25 insufficient funds fee often applies.
Financing is not available in all states.

The impact of COVID-19:

Although the pandemic didn’t affect Uprova’s policies, you can still inquire about potential loan deferments. To seek help, you can call Uprova at 1-866-362-3444.

UniversalCredit

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $50,000

APR

11.69% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

36 Months – 60 Months

Fees:

Origination fee of 5.25% – 9.99% of the loan amount
Origination fee is deducted from the loan proceeds
No prepayment penalty or fee
Late payment and other fees may apply according to the Borrower Agreement
Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly
Actual APR, fees, and loan terms depend on credit score, credit usage history, loan amount, and other factors
Certain loan offers may not be available in all states

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must provide accurate personal and financial information
Must provide a valid Social Security number
Must have a valid U.S. residential address
Must have sufficient income and ability to repay the loan
Credit score and credit history are considered
Credit usage history is considered
Existing debt obligations may be considered
Income verification may be required
Identity verification may be required
Checking your rate uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A hard credit inquiry is performed when the loan is funded
Additional supporting documents may be required
Final approval is conditional on verification of the information provided
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

Universal Credit does not publish a current average funded-borrower loan amount
Universal Credit does not publish a current average borrower credit score
Universal Credit is powered by Upgrade, Inc., which reports more than 7 million customers served since 2017
Upgrade, Inc. reports more than $40 billion in credit provided to customers
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Low credit scores, high DTI ratios

UniversalCredit is an affiliate of Upgrade, and the lender can help you obtain affordable financing. Loans range from $1,000 to $50,000, with APRs of 8.93% to 35.93% and terms of three to five years. However, since UniversalCredit is friendlier to borrowers with weak credit scores, it’s a solid option if you’re on the borderline between fair and bad credit.

The average borrower has a credit score of 638 and an annual income of $60,000, and these are less than Upgrade’s metrics, which come in at 678 and $78,000, respectively. As a result, UniversalCredit is like OneMain Financial because its approval process isn’t as strict.

To qualify, you need a minimum credit score of 560, and your DTI ratio can’t exceed 75%. You also need a valid email address and bank account. Borrowers incur loan origination fees of 4.25% to 8%. However, there are no prepayment penalties. Also, Upgrade’s services are not available in Washington, D.C., Iowa, and West Virginia. Therefore, while UniversalCredit doesn’t list any state restrictions, it may deny applicants in similar regions.

Pros:

UniversalCredit can help you land a personal loan of $1,000 to $50,000.
Affordable APRs of 8.93% to 35.93% are available.
UniversalCredit accepts borrowers with lower average incomes and credit scores than Upgrade.
Flexible repayment schedules of three to five years are available.
Applying won’t impact your credit score.

Cons:

You incur a loan origination fee of 4.25% to 8%.
There may be some state restrictions.

The impact of COVID-19:

UniversalCredit doesn’t list any pandemic-related programs. However, since Upgrade provided loan assistance during the outbreak, UniversalCredit should have similar policies. To learn more, you can call UniversalCredit at 1-877-418-9765 or email support@universal-credit.com.

Can I Get a Personal Loan If I Have Fair Credit?

Yes. The lending market is highly flexible, and more lenders are opening their doors to borrowers with fair credit. Credit scoring models continue to evolve, making it easier for borrowers to get approved than in years past. Instead of just looking at your credit score, lenders now take a holistic approach and examine your entire financial situation. For example, they look at your work history, education, spending activity, and savings balance. More importantly, fair credit APRs max at 35.99%.

How Much Can I Borrow and What APR Will I Receive?

Since fair credit borrowers often fall in the middle of the high-low range, you should be able to qualify for an APR of 10% to 15%. As evidence, LendingTree’s July 2021 Personal Loan Offers Report found that borrowers with credit scores in the 640 to 679 range received an average APR of 22.74%. However, the top 10% of borrowers in this credit score range received an average APR of 10.94%. As a result, alternative metrics like your income, savings, spending habits, education, and rent history can help you obtain cheaper rates.

As for loan amounts, lenders usually extend up to $100,000. However, your qualifying amount often depends on your income. As a result, lenders should respond favorably if you have a predictable salary and cash flow.

Do Credit Unions Offer Personal Loans?

Yes. Credit unions are similar to online lenders, and they have expanded their qualification criteria to compete in today’s marketplace. As a result, credit unions consider your work history, education, spending activity, and savings balance.

For more information, please consult our marketplace. You’ll find several reliable lenders there, and you can even organize your search by state.

Do Banks Offer Personal Loans?

Some do, and some don’t. However, the ones that do often have high credit score requirements. For example, TD Bank and Wells Fargo offer personal loans, but their minimum credit score requirements are 700 and 660, respectively. Moreover, the average approved borrower often has an even higher credit score.

What’s the Difference Between a Secured and a Co-Signer Personal Loan?

A secured personal loan requires upfront collateral. You can use your home equity, emergency savings, or retirement assets. Similarly, a co-signer acts as a guarantor and promises to repay the debt if you default. Both options are suitable if they result in better loan terms. However, it’s important only to make these commitments if you’re sure that you can repay the loan.

How Do I Find the Best Fair Credit Personal Loan?

To find the best personal loan in the shortest amount of time, we recommend trying loan comparison sites. For example, Even Financial curate personalized offers with the highest chance of success. Moreover, they also have options for borrowers with bad credit.

If that fails, don’t give up. Tomorrow is full of new possibilities, and the more you work on your credit score, the more lenders will reward you for your efforts. And in no time, better offers will come your way.

Furthermore, it never hurts to try. You’d be surprised at how often lenders approve borrowers who assume they won’t qualify. As a result, please consult our marketplace to see what offers are available. Moreover, since applying doesn’t impact your credit score, you have nothing to lose by shopping around.

Loan Options For Borrowers With Borderline Credit Scores

If your credit score is below 600, other products may be more appropriate. For example, bad credit personal loans typically have 15% to 35.99% APRs. However, companies like BadCreditLoans, ZippyLoan, and Avant often have higher approval rates, and our guide on the best bad credit personal loans can help you find the most suitable option.

Conversely, if your credit score exceeds 690, you may obtain an APR of 5% to 10%. Furthermore, our guide on the best good credit personal loans reviews more than 20 lenders that issue loans to borrowers with good credit, and companies like SoFi and Marcus by Goldman Sachs don’t charge any fees. As a result, it’s wise to use your good credit score to your advantage.

Why Did We Select These Lenders?

We analyzed more than 100 lenders to determine which companies have the best products and the lowest APRs. And while fair credit scores are typically between 600 and 690, we wanted to provide options for borrowers at or slightly below the low-end range to make their search a little easier. Therefore, the products above cover the entire fair credit lending market and should meet the needs of most borrowers.

Conclusion

If you have fair credit, you can still obtain an affordable loan with an APR of 10% to 15%. For example, we found most fair credit scores are well above lenders’ minimum requirements, so you shouldn’t have any trouble obtaining multiple offers. However, the key is to apply to several lenders and comparison sites to uncover which companies offer the best rates. Since applying doesn’t require a commitment and won’t hurt your credit score, shopping around helps lower your APR. As a result, we hope that our guide allows for a smoother search process.

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