Best Personal Loans for Good and Bad Credit in California of August 2026

ElitePersonalFinance • Personal Loans by States and Cities •

Last Update: August 19, 2026

If you are a resident of California, there are several excellent options for finding the best personal loans. Online lenders, banks, and credit unions offer competitive rates and terms on installment loans in California, making it easy for borrowers to find the perfect personal loan for their needs. The best personal loans in California offer loans between $100 and $100,000 with APRs ranging from 5.99% to 36% and terms ranging from 12 to 60 months. In addition, the best personal loans in California require a minimum credit score of at least 300, making them accessible to many borrowers. Without further ado, here are the best personal loans in California, why we chose them, and their pros. & cons., eligibility criteria, and what they are best for.

Best Personal Lenders in California of August 2026

Loan Company:	Min. Credit Score:	APR:	Amount:	Apply:
SoFi	680	7.99% – 19.39%	$5,000 – $100,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
ZippyLoan	0	7.04% – 35.89%	$100 – $15,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Upstart	300	6.6% – 35.99%	$1,000 – $75,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Upgrade	580	7.99% – 35.99%	$1,000 – $50,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
LendingPoint	580	7.99% – 35.99%	$2,000 – $36,500	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Wells Fargo	700	5.99% – 21.74%	$3,000 – $100,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
U.S. Bank	660	8.24% – 20.74%	$1,000 – $50,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
First Tech Federal	660	7.70% – 18%	$500 – $50,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
PenFed	670	7.74% – 17.99%	$600 – $50,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Affirm	0	0% – 30%	Up to $17,500	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
Travis Credit Union	300 – 850	From 3.25%	From as low as $500	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
CU SoCal Credit Union	0	As low as 9.24%	$500 – $30,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect
SchoolsFirst Credit Union	580	7% – 18%	$500 – $30,000	Apply Now SSL No Credit Effect

Our Marketplace

ElitePersonalFinance Marketplace

Compare different lenders in our marketplace. Our marketplace is the largest place online to find and compare all lenders in one place. All of our lenders offer competitive rates and terms, making it easy for borrowers to find the best loan for their needs.

In addition, our marketplace includes lenders that specialize in personal loans for specific purposes such as debt consolidation, home improvement, and personal expenses.

Why Trust ElitePersonalFinance Guides?

We scrutinize over 50 lenders across California to bring our readers the best options for financial products, including personal loans. Our experienced analysts thoroughly evaluate each lender’s rates, terms, customer service, and overall trustworthiness before making any recommendations.

We only work with legit companies that adhere to state and federal regulations, ensuring the safety of our readers’ personal information and funds. Our top-tier editorial team also continually updates our guides to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.

We regularly consult with our finance experts and conduct surveys of current borrowers to bring our readers the most comprehensive information possible.

So trust ElitePersonalFinance as your go-to guide for finding the best personal loans in California of August 2026.

Best Personal Loans in California of August 2026: Key Findings

The best personal loans in California start at $100 and go up to $100,000 with a repayment plan of 12 to 84 months.

APRs for the best installment loans in California range from 5.99% to 36%. Your chosen APR varies depending on your DTI ratio, credit score, income, and other factors.

You can get a personal loan even with bad credit. However, the APR is usually higher for those with low credit scores.

To qualify for a personal loan in California, you must have a credit score of at least 300, verifiable income and employment, and a current U.S. bank account.

Some lenders specialize in specific personal loan uses such as debt consolidation, home improvement, and personal expenses.

SoFi

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$5,000 – $100,000

APR

6.99% – 35.49%

Min. Credit Score

620

Approval

< 1 Day

Terms

2 Years – 7 Years

Fees:

No origination fee is required
No prepayment penalties
No late fees
Some borrowers may choose an optional origination fee of 0% – 7% in exchange for a lower interest rate
A 0.25% AutoPay rate discount may be available
A 0.25% SoFi Plus discount may be available to eligible members
Actual APR depends on creditworthiness, loan amount, loan term, income, and other factors

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must be a U.S. citizen or other eligible status
Must reside in an eligible U.S. state
Must meet SoFi's underwriting requirements
Must have sufficient income and meet applicable debt and credit requirements
Credit history, income, employment, and other financial information may be considered
The minimum credit score may vary depending on the loan amount and the applicant's credit history and debts Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

The average SoFi Personal Loan funded in 2024 was approximately $33,000
SoFi does not publish a current average credit score for personal-loan borrowers
Loan amount, APR, and terms depend on creditworthiness, income, loan amount, loan term, and other factors
Higher credit scores generally qualify for more favorable rates

Best For

Borrowers with good to excellent credit looking for large personal loans and competitive fixed rates

SoFi is a great lender for borrowers who want no-fee, high-amount personal loans in California for good credit. SoFi offers good credit installment loans in California as low as $5,000 up to $100,000 with three or five years repayment terms. Additionally, this lender charges an APR of 7.99% to 23.43%, which is better than most lenders on our list.

To qualify for a SoFi personal loan, you must have a credit score of at least 680 and have either a job, a job offer with a start date within the next 60 days, or another reliable source of income.

You can use your SoFi personal loan for various reasons – from debt consolidation to medical expenses to home improvements.

Also, SoFi installment loans in California come with no origination fees, prepayment, and late payment fees.

SoFi is one of the best online loans in California because it offers unemployment protection. If you lose your job, SoFi will work with you to lower your monthly payments or put your loan payments on hold for some time. And this is an excellent safety net for borrowers who are worried about losing their income and unable to make their loan payments.

In addition, SoFi doesn’t have an origination fee, late fee, or insufficient funds fee. Nonetheless, SoFi offers a 0.25% rate discount for enrolling in Autopay.

Additionally, SoFi is an online lender for its bank products, so you can enjoy the convenience of an online application and personal loan management.

SoFi offers installment loans in California with no origination fee, no late fees, and no prepayment penalties. You can also enjoy low-cost deposits. Additionally, SoFi provides individualized career counseling available to borrowers to aid with job searches, career transitions, and developing a solid personal brand. In addition, we offer our clients discounted estate planning and no-cost budgeting guidance.

Pros:

No origination fees.
No late fees.
No prepayment penalties.
Low-cost installment loans in California with fixed rates and terms of 24 months up to 72 months.
Accepts joint application options.
Charges APRs between 7.99% and 23.43%.
If you sign up for SoFi Money, you’ll receive a $10 bonus.

Cons:

Requires a credit score of 680 or higher to qualify.
Because of the minimum loan requirement of $5,000, many potential borrowers are kicked out from applying.

The Impact of Covid-19:

To help those who were having trouble making their loan payments, SoFi established a Special Handling Team. If you are experiencing problems making payments on time, contact SoFi at 1-855-456-7634 for more information about your options.

ZippyLoan

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$100 – $15,000

APR

Varies by Lender

Min. Credit Score

No minimum credit score

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

6 Months – 72 Months

Fees

ZippyLoan does not charge a fee to use its loan-connecting service
APR and loan costs are determined by the individual lender
Interest rates, fees, and other loan costs vary based on the lender, state, loan amount, repayment term, and borrower information
Late or missed payment fees may apply according to the lender's loan agreement
There are no prepayment penalties for the typical personal loans described by ZippyLoan

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must be a U.S. resident
Must have a regular source of income
Must provide personal, income, employment, and banking information
All credit types may be considered
Credit history, income, and state of residence may affect eligibility
The individual lender determines the final eligibility requirements
Not available to residents of New York, West Virginia, or Oregon
Not all applicants will qualify for a loan

Average Borrower Profile

ZippyLoan does not publish a current average borrower profile
The lender network serves borrowers with excellent, average, and poor credit
Credit score is one factor considered by participating lenders
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the lender and the borrower's qualifications

Best For

Borrowers with poor or less-than-perfect credit looking for personal loan offers

ZippyLoan provides the best installment loans for bad credit in California to people with bad or no credit because it offers access to financing from a vast network of lenders. To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a regular source of income.

ZippyLoan provides borrowers with loan amounts of $100 to $15,000 and terms of 6 months to 72 months. The APR on a ZippyLoan range from 7.04% to 35.89%. The actual APR you receive will be based on your creditworthiness, loan amount, and loan term.

There is no origination fee with ZippyLoan, but unlike SoFi, late fees and prepayment fees vary by lender. Even better, most lenders on the platform do not charge prepayment fees.

ZippyLoan is one of the best bad credit online loans in California because it gives borrowers, regardless of their credit, an opportunity to access online installment bad credit loans in California. And this means that ZipplyLoan is an excellent choice for those with less-than-perfect credit.

Pros:

No origination fees.
A wide range of loan amounts and terms.
Accessible to borrowers with bad or no credit.
Reasonable APRs.
Applying doesn’t affect your credit score.

Cons:

Charges late fees and prepayment fees (varies by lender).

The Impact of Covid-19:

ZippyLoan is committed to working with lenders to help borrowers impacted by Covid-19. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with their customer service team at 1-844-379-8621 or email support@zippyloan.com.

Upstart

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $75,000

APR

6.3% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

No minimum credit score in most states

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

3 or 5 Years

Fees

Loan origination fee may apply and varies by lender and loan offer
Late payment fees may apply depending on the lender and loan terms
Insufficient funds/ACH return fee may apply
There are no prepayment fees

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must reside in the United States and meet applicable state and lender requirements
No minimum credit score in most states
Upstart considers factors beyond traditional credit scores, including income, employment, education, and credit history
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements of the lender making the loan
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Upstart considers more than traditional credit-score factors when evaluating borrowers
The lending model may consider factors such as education, employment, income, and credit history
Borrowers with lower credit scores may still qualify, although they may receive higher APRs
Loan amounts, APRs, fees, and terms vary based on the borrower's qualifications and lender

Best For

Borrowers with less-than-perfect credit

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 $9,136 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.

Upstart offers the best installment loans in California for bad credit to borrowers with high DTI ratios and low credit scores. However, it would help if you had a minimum credit score of 300 to qualify, and your DTI must be below 50%.

Upstart’s artificial intelligence (A.I.) & underwriting algorithm utilizes alternative data such as employment history and educational background to boost acceptance and decrease interest rates. Therefore, if your credit score is average, you may still qualify for a personal loan with terms that are more favorable than average. Nonetheless, Upstart is a peer-to-peer lending platform that facilitates funding by connecting investors with borrowers based on their individual risk preferences and credit histories.

As one of the best installment loans in California, Upstart lets you borrow $1,000 to $75,000 with fixed APRs of 6.6% to 35.99%. However, the minimum amounts vary by different states. In addition, you can choose repayment terms of three to five years. The best part is that there are no origination fees or prepayment fees.

However, if you make a late payment, you will be charged a fee of 5% of the outstanding balance or $15, whichever is greater. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a legit personal loan in California and have average credit, Upstart is a great option.

Pros:

Very accessible to borrowers with high DTI ratios and low credit scores.
Applying won’t have any effect on your credit score.
Upstart has flexible payment options of 3 or 5 years.
Upstart requires a low minimum credit score of 300.
Affordable APRs start at 6.6%.

Cons:

If you make a late payment, you will be charged a fee of 5% of the outstanding balance or $15, whichever is greater.
Upstart charges an origination fee of between 0% and 10%.
Upstart charges an insufficient funds fee of $15.
Upstart charges paper document fees of $10.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Upstart is committed to helping borrowers impacted by Covid-19. Don’t hesitate to contact their customer service team at 1-855-451-6753 for assistance if you have been affected. Alternatively, you can request assistance through Upstart’s website here.

Upgrade

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $50,000

APR

7.74% – 35.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

24 Months – 84 Months

Fees

Origination fee of 1.85% – 9.99%, deducted from the loan proceeds
No application or upfront fees
Late fee of up to $10 if the full payment is not received within 15 calendar days of the due date
$10 fee may apply for failed electronic or check payment attempts
A one-time title transfer fee may apply to certain secured loans
There are no prepayment fees

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18, or older if required by the applicant's state
Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or living in the U.S. on a valid visa
Must provide verifiable bank account information
Must provide a valid email address
Eligibility is based on factors including credit score, credit usage, payment history, loan amount, and loan term
Joint applications are accepted for eligible loan offers
Not all applicants will qualify, and certain loan offers may not be available in all states

Average Borrower Profile

Upgrade does not publish a current average borrower profile
Upgrade considers the applicant's overall financial profile rather than credit score alone
Factors considered include credit score, credit usage, payment history, loan amount, and loan term
Borrowers with a range of credit profiles may qualify
The APR and loan terms offered depend on the applicant's qualifications and other factors

Best For

Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, and borrowers looking for fixed-rate personal loans

Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 7.99% – 35.99%. All personal loans have a 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. The lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. Loans feature repayment terms of 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 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 in your account 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 on your loan may be higher or lower, and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. The actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed-rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early.

If you are looking for a personal loan in California that does fast funding, then Upgrade is a great option. With Upgrade, you can have the money in as little as one day. All you need is a credit score of 580 and an annual income of $78,000.

As one of the best online loans in California, Upgrade lets you borrow from $1,000 to $50,000 with APRs ranging from 7.99% to 35.99%. The best part is that you can choose repayment terms of 2 to 7 years. However, the origination fee is 1.85% to 9.99%. In addition, if you make a late payment, you will be charged a cost of $10 after a 15-day grace period.

In addition, Upgrade is an excellent lender for installment loans in California to borrowers with less perfect credit. With Upgrade, you can get a personal loan with a credit score of 580. So, if your credit score is not the best, but you need a personal loan, then Upgrade is a great option.

Pros:

Fast funding.
No prepayment fees.
Flexible repayment terms.
Allows co-signer options.

Cons:

An origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%.
Late payment fee of $10 after a 15-day grace period.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Upgrade offers a chat-on option to borrowers experiencing challenges making payments due to Covid-19. Alternatively, you can contact Upgrade at 1-844-319-3909 or email the lender at support@upgrade.com.

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% may apply depending on the borrower's state
No application fee
No prepayment penalty
No charge for making extra payments
Origination fees and other applicable costs are disclosed before accepting the loan
Actual APR and loan terms depend on credit profile, financial condition, and other underwriting factors
Interest rates are fixed for the life of the loan

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18 or the age of majority in the applicant's state
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Must have a valid U.S. bank account
Must have a valid Social Security number
Must provide requested personal and financial information
Credit score, credit history, income, debt-to-income ratio, and other financial factors may be considered
Must meet LendingPoint's underwriting requirements
Not available to residents of certain states
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

LendingPoint does not publish a current average personal-loan borrower profile
The approved loan amount is based on the applicant's individual credit profile and financial information
LendingPoint considers factors including debt-to-income ratio and payment-to-income ratio
Credit history, income, and other financial factors affect the loan offer
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Borrowers looking for unsecured personal loans with flexible terms and no prepayment penalty

LendingPoint is an excellent option for personal loans in California for average credit if you have a credit score of 580 or higher and an annual income of at least $35,000.

You can qualify for a loan of $2,000 to $36,500 with an APR of 7.99% to 35.99%. The best part is that you can choose repayment terms of 2 to 7 years, and there is no origination fee.

There is, however, a late payment fee of up to $30 and an insufficient funds fee of $20. In addition, LendingPoint requires that you have a current, active Social Security number and that you can prove your identity with a government-issued I.D.

The quick approval time and adaptable requirements that LendingPoint provides make it one of the best online installment loans in California for average credit. Compared to loans mediated through banks, the installment loans made by LendingPoint’s direct lenders carry a higher degree of safety. However, they don’t provide other forms of credit, such as credit cards or personal lines of credit, and only offer online installment loans in California.

Furthermore, applying for a loan at LendingPoint will not affect your credit score, as the company only does a soft pull on your credit report.

Pros:

No origination fee.
Flexible repayment terms.
Fast approval time.
Applying does not affect your credit score.

Cons:

Late payment fee of up to $30.
Insufficient funds fee of $20.
An origination fee of 0% to 7%.

The Impact of Covid-19:

LendingPoint doesn’t have a specific hardship program for borrowers experiencing challenges making payments due to Covid-19. However, you can contact LendingPoint at 1-888-969-0959 or email the lender at customerservice@lendingpoint.com.

Wells Fargo

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$3,000 – $100,000

APR

6.74% – 26.74%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Same Day

Terms

12 Months – 84 Months

Fees

No origination fee
No closing fee
No prepayment penalty
No application fee
Late fees may apply
A 0.25% relationship rate discount may be available with a qualifying Wells Fargo consumer checking account and Autopay
Actual APR depends on credit history, loan amount, and loan term
The lowest advertised rate assumes excellent credit history
Only existing Wells Fargo customers can apply for a personal loan

Qualification Criteria

Minimum age: 18
Must be an existing Wells Fargo customer for at least 12 months
Must meet Wells Fargo's credit approval requirements
Must provide employment, income, and other requested information
Credit history and ability to repay are considered
Must meet applicable Wells Fargo eligibility requirements
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile

Wells Fargo does not publish a current average personal-loan borrower profile
Credit history, loan amount, loan term, and other financial information are considered when determining the APR
The lowest advertised APR assumes excellent credit history
Actual loan amount, APR, fees, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Existing Wells Fargo customers looking for large personal loans with competitive fixed rates

Wells Fargo customers get access to the best installment loans in California for excellent credit of $3,000 to $100,000 with the best rates and terms. However, to be eligible, you must have a credit score of at least 700 and a maximum DTI ratio of 49%.

You can choose a loan term of 1 to 7 years with no origination fees or prepayment penalties. The only fees you need to be aware of are the late payment fee of $39 and the insufficient fund fee of $35. In addition, you must have either employment income or government benefits to qualify.

Applying for installment loans in California at Wells Fargo is a simple process that can be done online or in person at their branches. After you submit your application, you will typically receive a decision within 1 to 7 days.

The best part about taking out a loan with Wells Fargo is that you can get a 0.25% interest rate discount if you set up automatic payments from a Wells Fargo checking or savings account.

Remember that Wells Fargo will conduct a thorough credit check after applying.

Wells Fargo is distinctive in that it allows joint loan application options. In addition, this can increase your chances of being approved and help you get a better interest rate. You also have an equal amount of responsibility for paying back the debt.

Even better, Wells Fargo has 1,445 locations in California- so you’re never too far from speaking to a loan specialist.

Pros:

Joint application options.
No origination fees or prepayment penalties.
0.25% interest rate discount for setting up automatic payments.
Flexible loan terms of between 1 and 7 years.

Cons:

Late payment fee of $39.
Insufficient funds fee of $35.
Performs hard credit checks, which can impact your credit score.
Requires excellent credit rating of at least 700.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Wells Fargo has several options for borrowers experiencing hardships due to Covid-19. These include deferring payments, waiving late fees, and temporarily reducing interest rates. You can contact Wells Fargo at 1-866-828-5047 to discuss your options.

U.S. Bank

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$1,000 – $50,000

APR

9.24% – 24.99%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

12 Months – 84 Months

Fees:

No origination fee
No prepayment penalty
No collateral is required
There are no hidden costs or fees advertised for the personal loan
Automatic payments may qualify borrowers for an APR discount
Actual APR depends on credit score, loan amount, loan purpose, repayment term, and automatic payment selection
Rates and terms are subject to credit approval and program guidelines

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must meet U.S. Bank's credit and underwriting requirements
Must provide a Social Security number
Must provide home address and employment information
Credit score, debt-to-income ratio, credit history, and other factors are considered
Applicants may apply with a joint applicant
Checking your rate initially uses a soft credit inquiry and does not affect your credit score
A full credit report is requested after submitting a formal application
Not all applicants will qualify
Loan availability may vary by state and loan program

Average Borrower Profile:

U.S. Bank does not publish a current average personal-loan borrower profile
Credit score, debt-to-income ratio, credit history, and other financial factors affect approval and pricing
The lowest advertised APR is generally available to highly qualified borrowers
Actual loan amount, APR, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Borrowers looking for a no-origination-fee personal loan with fast approval decisions and flexible repayment terms

U.S. Bank is the most excellent option for current members, while new clients are limited to loans of up to $25,000 over five years. Existing customers can get the best good credit installment loans in California of up to $50,000.

In addition, borrowers with a credit score of at least 800 are eligible for the best APRs when they borrow $10,000 or more for a term of one to three years. A credit score of 660 or higher is required for approval. However, auto-pay is not mandatory. Also, you’ll need to link an external checking or savings account to your U.S. bank account for seamless, automated payments.

U.S. Bank conducts a soft credit check on applicants so that the application process won’t impact your credit score.

Once approved, you can choose a loan term of 1 to 7 years. However, non-customers get a maximum period of 5 years. The best part is that you can receive your funds as soon as one day after being approved.
U.S. Bank doesn’t charge origination or prepayment fees. However, there is a late payment fee of $10. The best way to avoid this is by signing up for autopayments from a U.S. Bank checking or savings account.

The U.S. Bank offers a 0.5% APR discount for Autopay. Additionally, the U.S. Bank has 469 branches in California, which makes it easy to speak to a loan specialist.

Pros:

You can get your loan funds as soon as one day after approval.
No origination fees or prepayment penalties.
0.5% APR discount for Autopay from a U.S. Bank checking or savings account.
Flexible loan terms of between 1 and 7 years.
Applying for a loan doesn’t affect your credit score.

Cons:

Late payment fee of $10.
New customers can only borrow a maximum of $25,000.
Requires a good credit score to be eligible for the highest amounts.

The Impact of Covid-19:

As a result of the epidemic, U.S. Bank established forbearance programs to aid borrowers. Large personal loans were one of the many financial instruments insured by the policies. Contact U.S. Bank’s pandemic helpline at 1-888-287-7817 for up-to-date policy information or email mobile@usbank.com for support.

First Tech Credit Union

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$500 – $50,000

APR

6.99% – 18.00%

Min. Credit Score

Not specified

Approval

Instant Approval

Terms

6 Months – 84 Months

Fees:

No application fee
No origination fee
No prepayment penalty
No annual fee
Optional loan payment protection may be available for fixed-rate loans
Actual APR depends on credit history, loan amount, loan term, and other factors
Membership is required and subject to approval

Qualification Criteria:

Minimum age: 18
Must be a First Tech Federal Credit Union member
Must meet First Tech's credit and underwriting requirements
Must provide valid identification
Must provide employment and income information
Credit score, income, loan amount, loan term, and overall financial health may be considered
Membership is subject to approval
Applicants with less-than-perfect credit may still qualify
Not all applicants will qualify

Average Borrower Profile:

First Tech does not publish a current average personal-loan borrower profile
Personal-loan eligibility depends on the applicant's financial profile
Credit score, income, loan amount, and loan term are factors used to determine the applicable rate
Actual loan amount, APR, and repayment terms depend on the applicant's qualifications

Best For

Borrowers looking for low fixed-rate personal loans with flexible repayment terms

First Tech Federal Credit Union offers some of California’s best good credit personal loan rates, with APRs starting at just 7.7%. However, to qualify for these rates, you’ll need an excellent credit score of at least 660. The credit union also offers a 0.25% APR reduction if you agree to Autopay from a First Tech account.

You can apply online in just a few minutes and get a decision within 24 hours. You can choose a loan term of 5 to 12 years if approved. First Tech Federal Credit Union doesn’t charge origination, prepayment, or late fees.

In addition, First Tech Federal Credit Union offers some of the best customer services in the industry, with 24/7 support available by phone, email, or live chat.

Pros:

No origination fees.
No prepayment fees.
No late fees.
Competitive APRs start at just 7.7%.
0.25% APR discount for Autopay from a First Tech account.
Excellent customer service.

Cons:

It would help if you had an excellent credit score to qualify for the best rates.
Not all applicants will receive a decision within 24 hours.

The Impact of Covid-19:

First Tech Federal Credit Union has established forbearance programs to assist borrowers impacted by the pandemic. Contact their customer service team at 855-855-8805 for up-to-date information on these programs.

PenFed

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$600 – $50,000

APR

As low as 8.99% APR

Min. Credit Score

650

Approval

Several days

Terms

6 Months – 5 Years

Fees

No origination fees.
No prepayment penalties.
Late penalties apply.

Qualification Criteria

Be at least 18 years of age.
Have recurring employment income or government benefits.
Become a PenFed member.

Best For

Flexible repayment terms (6 months to 5 years).

PenFed offers some of California’s best credit personal loan rates, with APRs starting at just 7.74%. You can choose a loan term of 1 to 5 years if approved. PenFed doesn’t charge origination fees but late payments and non-sufficient fund fees of $29 and $35, respectively.

To qualify for a loan, you’ll need a credit score of at least 670. You’ll also need a two-year credit history, a minimum of two accounts, and no bankruptcies. Borrowers typically make $55,000 annually and have a debt-to-income ratio of 40%.

In addition, PenFed offers excellent customer service, with 24/7 support available by phone, email, or live chat.

Nonetheless, PenFed has implemented several forbearance programs to assist borrowers impacted by the pandemic.

Pros:

No origination fees.
Competitive APRs start at just 7.74%.
You can choose a loan term of 1 to 5 years.
Excellent customer service.

Cons:

You’ll need a credit score of at least 670 to qualify.
Late payment and non-sufficient fund fees of $29 and $35, respectively.
It would help if you had a two-year credit history and no bankruptcies.

The Impact of Covid-19:
PenFed has established forbearance programs to assist borrowers impacted by the pandemic. Contact their customer service team at 1-800-247-5626 for up-to-date information on these programs.

Affirm

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount:

Up to $17,500

APR:

0% – 30%

Terms:

1 – 48 months

Min. Credit Score:

Instant Approval:

Money Down:

Fees:

Best For:

Clothing, Makeup, Home Decor

Credit Check:

Affirm offers some of California’s best installment loans for bad credit, with APRs starting at just 7.74%. You can choose a loan term of 1 to 4 years if approved. Affirm doesn’t charge origination, late payment, or repayment fees.

To qualify for a loan, you’ll need a credit score of at least 670. You’ll also need to be at least 18 years old (or 19 in Alabama or Nebraska if you are a ward of the state), possess a valid SSN, and have an SMS-capable phone number from the United States or a U.S. territory.

In addition, Affirm offers excellent customer service, with 24/7 support available by phone, email, or live chat.

Nonetheless, Affirm has implemented several forbearance programs to assist borrowers impacted by the pandemic.

Pros:

No origination fees.
No late payment fees.
No repayment fees.
Competitive APRs start at just 7.74%.
You can choose a loan term of 1 to 4 years.
Excellent customer service.

Cons:

You’ll need a credit score of at least 670 to qualify.

The Impact of Covid-19:
Affirm has established forbearance programs to assist borrowers impacted by the pandemic. Contact their customer service team at 855-423-3729 for up-to-date information on these programs.

Travis Credit Union

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

As low as $500

APR

From 3.25%

Min. Credit Score

300 – 850

Approval

Not disclosed.

Terms

12 – 60 months

Fees

Does not charge prepayment fees.
Does not require collateral.
Charges an origination fee of 0% – 20%.

Qualification Criteria

Be 18 years old and above.
A valid email address.
Co-applicant’s personal information (if applicable)
Social Security Number, or any valid form of validation.
Possess an SMS-capable phone number from the United States or a U.S. territory.
Fill in your credentials at the Travis Credit Union’s online portal.

Average Borrower Profile

Not disclosed.

Best For

Home improvement projects

Travis Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution headquartered in Vacaville, California, that serves people in the counties of Alameda, Colusa, Merced, Contra Costa, Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Stanislaus. This lender has 24 branches.

Travis Credit Union has more than 217,000 members and more than $4.2 billion in assets, making it the 12th largest credit union in California.

Travis offers bad credit personal loans in California with APRs as low as 3.25% and terms of 12 to 60 months. There is no prepayment fee, and collateral is not required.

To qualify, you must be 18 years old or older, have a valid email address, and possess a Social Security Number or any other valid form of identification. You’ll also need an SMS-capable phone number from the United States or a U.S. territory.

You’ll also need their personal information if you apply with a co-applicant.
Travis Credit Union does charge an origination fee of 0% to 20%, depending on your creditworthiness.

Pros:

No prepayment fee.
Collateral is not required.
Competitive APRs are as low as 3.25%.
Flexible terms of 12 to 60 months.

Cons:

An origination fee of 0% to 20%.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Travis Credit Union implemented a hardship program for those impacted by Covid-19. You can contact their customer service team at 800-877-8328 for more information.

C.U. SoCal Credit Union

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$500 – $30,000

APR

As low as 9.24%

Min. Credit Score

Approval

Terms

12 – 120 months

Fees

Does not charge prepayment fees.
Does not require collateral.
Does not charge loan origination fees.
Does not charge late payment fees.

Qualification Criteria

Be 18 years old and above.
A genuine email address.
Social Security Number or another recognized means of verification
Have an American or American territory-based SMS-capable phone number.
Fill in your credentials at the C.U. SoCal Credit Union’s online portal.

Average Borrower Profile

Not disclosed.

Best For

No-fee personal loans

The Credit Union of Southern California (C.U. SoCal) is a premier financial cooperative dedicated to helping people in Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County realize their dreams and secure their financial destinies.

C.U. SoCal offers bad credit unsecured personal loans in California of $500 to $30,000 with APRs as low as 9.24%. There are no prepayment or origination fees, and you can choose terms of 12 to 120 months.

Qualifying for a loan is easy–you must be 18 years old or older, have a genuine email address, and a Social Security Number or another recognized means of verification. You must also have an American or American territory-based SMS-capable phone number.

C.U. SoCal is a unique personal loans lender that does not charge late payment fees.

Pros:

No prepayment fee.
No origination fee.
No late payment fee.
Competitive APRs are as low as 9.24%.
Flexible terms of 12 to 120 months.

Cons:

Higher monthly payments.
High-interest rates if you have poor credit.

The Impact of Covid-19:

C.U. SoCal has implemented a hardship program for those impacted by Covid-19. You can contact their customer service team at 866-287-6225 for more information.

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

Check Rates SSL No Credit Effect

Loan Amount

$100 – $50,000

APR

7% – 18%

Min. Credit Score

580

Approval

1 – 7 days

Terms

4 – 60 months

Fees

Does not charge prepayment fees.
Does not charge loan processing fees.
An origination fee of 1% – 8%.
Does not charge late payment fees.

Qualification Criteria

Be 18 years old and above.
Maintain a positive status with your SchoolsFirst FCU account.
Have a credit score of between 580 and 840.
Submit a loan application and check your credit.

Average Borrower Profile

Pays $3.01 per $100 borrowed.
Pays an APR of 5.25%.
Has an average term loan of 36 months.

Best For

Consolidating higher-interest debt.

SchoolsFirst FCU was established in 1934 when a group of people working in schools came together to form a Member-owned cooperative. Headquartered in Tustin, CA, SchoolsFirst FCU has 69 locations across the state. In 2021, the credit union recorded a total of $29 billion in assets, making it one of the largest credit unions in California.

SchoolsFirst FCU offers average credit installment loans in California of $100 to $50,000 with 4 to 60 months terms. The credit union does not charge prepayment or loan processing fees, and you can get a competitive rate as low as 7% APR with an autopay discount.

Qualifying for a loan is easy–you must be 18 years old or older and maintain a positive status with your SchoolsFirst FCU account. It would help if you also had a credit score between 580 and 840.

To apply for a loan, submit an online application or go to their branches and check your credit.

Pros:

No prepayment fee.
No processing fee.
Competitive rates as low as 7% APR.
Flexible terms from 4 to 60 months.

Cons:

Higher monthly payments.
High-interest rates if you have poor credit.

The Impact of Covid-19:

SchoolsFirst FCU has implemented a hardship program for those impacted by Covid-19. You can contact their customer service team at 800-462-8328 for more information.

The Best Personal Loan Rates for Good Credit in CA of August 2026

The best personal loans in California for good credit were chosen after carefully considering APR, loan amount, and fees. Visit our Marketplace now to see all our top picks for this category of loans in one convenient location.

Here are our top picks for the best personal loan lenders for good credit in California:

SoFi
Penfed
Wells Fargo
First Tech Federal Credit Union

The Best Personal Loan Rates for Bad Credit in CA of August 2026

Borrowers with poor credit histories typically have no credit history or a low credit score. Think <600. There will be more stringent monthly payment terms, longer wait times for funds to be deposited, and interest rates in the 15%+ range if you have bad credit. Learn more about the lenders we suggest by visiting our Market.

Here are our top picks for the best personal loan rates for bad credit in California:

ZippyLoan
Affirm
CU SoCal Credit Union
Travis Credit Union

Best Debt Consolidation Loan Rates in CA of August 2026

Borrowers with credit ratings of 690 or above are often offered the greatest terms on debt consolidation loans in California. It is possible to obtain a loan with an annual percentage rate of less than 9%, with no origination or prepayment costs, and for amounts up to $2 million. You can find a full directory of the top debt consolidation companies in our Marketplace.

Here are our top picks for the best debt consolidation loan rates in California:

SchoolsFirst Credit Union
PenFed Credit Union

Best Secured Loan Rates in CA of August 2026

If you have collateral to back up your loan, the lender will likely offer you cheaper interest rates and view you as less dangerous. Visit our Marketplace to see all of our recommended secured loan providers.

Here are our best picks for the best-secured loan rates in California of August 2026:

U.S Bank
LendingPoint
Wells Fargo

Best Banks in CA of August 2026

The best California banks offer competitive annual percentage rates (APRs), flexible loan terms, lightning-fast approval timeframes, and no loan origination or prepayment costs. Additionally, it’s essential to choose a bank with branches near you.

Here are our best picks for the best banks in California of August 2026:

Bank of America
Wells Fargo
Chase Bank

Best Credit Unions in CA of August 2026

The best credit unions in California offer APRs of as low as 7% for personal loans, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest charges over your loan. Additionally, most credit unions require no origination or prepayment fee, and you can qualify for a lower rate if you have autopay set up from your checking account.

Here are our best picks for the best credit unions in California of August 2026:

SchoolsFirst FCU
PenFed Credit Union
Navy Federal Credit Union
Travis Credit Union

How to Find the Best Personal Loans in CA

Finding the best personal loans in California requires extensive research in the following areas:

Compare Fees, Terms, and Loan Cap Options

Reading the fine print of your loan agreement is essential to learn about any upfront costs, such as origination fees, that could significantly affect your budget. So, if you borrow $10,000 for personal reasons and the origination cost is 4%, your total due will be $10,400 at the start of the loan, plus the interest for the first month. Prepayment penalties and late fees are two different things to watch out for.

Take a look at the loan conditions, second. Generally speaking, interest rates and monthly payments go down as loan periods get longer (from 30 to 60 months, for example). With a shorter loan term, you can expect to pay more monthly, but your interest will be reduced. It is essential to do the math and ensure that your monthly loan payments will be affordable before applying.

Lastly, it would help if you also thought about the maximum amount you can lend and how long it will take to pay it back. Many financial institutions may lend between $500 and $100,000, with funds disbursed in as little as one working day.

Evaluate Loan Conditions Based on Credit Rating

The typical minimum credit score required to apply for a personal loan is 580. Three central credit reporting agencies exist Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. All three provide complete credit reports on annualcreditreport.com. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to view your credit score and information.

Shop Different Lenders

Shop for multiple lenders once you have settled on your desired interest rates, loan terms, and borrowing maximums. Your local bank has the advantage of being the initial option, but online banks and credit unions should also be considered.

Numerous reliable loan providers serving California borrowers can be found on our site.

In addition to these leading indicators, our site details approval cycles, terms, fees, qualification criteria, typical borrowers, and pros/cons for each lender.

How to Qualify For The Best Personal Loans in CA

There are a few things you should take into account before applying for installment loans in California:

Credit Score: Your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders will consider when evaluating your loan application. To qualify for the best personal loans in California, you must have a credit score between 300 and 850. A higher credit score indicates to lenders that you’re a lower-risk borrower, which could lead to a lower interest rate on your loan.

Income and Debt-to-Income Ratio: Lenders will also consider your income and debt-to-income ratio (DTI) when evaluating your loan application. Your DTI measures how much debt you have relative to your income. A lower DTI indicates to lenders that you’re a lower-risk borrower and may lead to a lower interest rate on your loan. To qualify for the best personal loans in California, you must have a DTI of 50% or less.

Employment Status: Lenders will also consider your employment status when evaluating your loan application. If you’re employed, you’re more likely to be able to repay your loan on time. To qualify for the best personal loans in California, you need to be employed full-time or have a regular source of income.

Collateral: Some lenders may require collateral for personal loans in California. Collateral is an asset that you agree to put up as security for the loan. Collateral, like a home or car, may be required when qualifying for a secured loan. Investment accounts, stamp collections, rare goods, and anything else of worth that the bank could sell to recoup nonpayment are also acceptable kinds of collateral.

Average Credit Score in CA

The average credit score in California is 680, which is lower than the national average of 698. The average credit score in California ranges from 670 to 739. A credit score of 690 or above is considered good, while a credit score of 630 or below is considered harmful.

Average Personal Loan Debt in CA

The average personal loan debt in California is $17,064, which is higher than the national average of $17,000. California’s average personal loan debt ranges from $10,000 to $25,000.

Personal Loan Debt-to-Income Ratio in CA

The average DTI for personal loans in California is 36%, which is lower than the national average of 39%. California’s average DTI for personal loans ranges from 33% to 40%. A DTI of 50% or less is considered good, while a DTI of 43% or higher is considered flawed.

How Do We Pick these Lenders?

To pick the best personal loans in California, we deeply evaluated over 50 lenders, scrutinizing them for factors such as:

Minimum credit score required
Loan amounts offered
Interest rates
Repayment terms
Fees
Prepayment penalties
Application process
Qualifications
Borrower demographics

Our editorial team then reviews the best personal loan offers from these lenders and narrows the list to only those that offer the best terms and rates. We then create detailed reviews of these lenders to help you compare your options and choose the best lender for your needs.

Nonetheless, we also pay close attention to the reputation of a company. Only those with a good reputation make it onto our best-of lists.

In addition, our team at ElitePersonalFinance updates and regularly revises these lists, ensuring that only the best personal loans in California are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Credit Score do I Need to Get a $20,000 Personal Loan in CA?
You will need a credit score of 640 or higher to get approved for a personal loan of $20,000 in California. You won’t get approved for the best rates if you have average or below-average credit.

What Credit Score do I Need to Get a $30,000 Personal Loan in CA?
You’ll need a credit score of 660 or higher to get approved for a personal loan of $30,000 in California. Nonetheless, to qualify for a personal loan of $30,000 or more, you’ll typically need good credit and proof that you make enough monthly money to make the installments.

How Much Personal Loan can I Get with a Credit Score of 700 in CA?
With a credit score of 700, you can access $50k – $100k and more installment loans in California. It’s not just your credit score that determines how much money you’ll obtain, but also things like your income, work status, the nature of the loan you acquire, and the lender.

Conclusion

When looking for personal loans in California, it’s important to compare different lenders to find the best rates and terms. Our team has researched and reviewed the best personal loan companies in the state so you can decide which one is right for you. Our list of the best personal loans in California will help you find the right loan for your needs.

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