The 10 Best Personal Loans For People With Bad Credit

People with bad credit often face limited borrowing options and high interest rates. But some lenders specifically offer personal loans for those with lower credit scores—without sky-high fees or unrealistic requirements. Whether you're looking to consolidate debt, cover emergency expenses, or fund a significant purchase, here are 10 of the best personal loans for people with bad credit.

1.     Upgrade

Best for: Fast approval with flexible terms

Minimum Credit Score: 560

Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000

APR: 8.49% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 2 – 7 years

Origination Fee: 1.85% – 9.99%

Upgrade is one of the most accessible lenders for people with poor or fair credit. The prequalification process takes just a few minutes, and funds are typically sent within one day of approval. It also offers direct payment to creditors for debt consolidation.

Good to know: Upgrade offers hardship plans if you run into financial difficulties.

2.     OneMain Financial

Best for: In-person service with no minimum credit score

Minimum Credit Score: None

Loan Amounts: $1,500 – $20,000

APR: 18.00% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 2 – 5 years

Origination Fee: Varies by state

OneMain is one of the few lenders that accepts applicants with no credit or poor credit. While the rates can be higher, approval is more flexible, and you can visit one of their 1,400+ branches if you prefer face-to-face service.

Heads up: Some loans may require collateral, like a car.

3.     Avant

Best for: Simple, fast loans for fair credit

Minimum Credit Score: 580

Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $35,000

APR: 9.95% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 1 – 5 years

Origination Fee: Up to 4.75%

Avant is a straightforward choice if your score is above 580. The platform focuses on speed—funds are often deposited the next business day. It's ideal for borrowers who don't qualify for top-tier rates but want a straightforward, no-frills loan process.

4.     LendingPoint

Best for: Customizable payment dates

Minimum Credit Score: 600

Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $36,500

APR: 7.99% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 2 – 5 years

Origination Fee: 0% – 8%

LendingPoint takes more than just your credit score into account. They consider income and job history, so it's possible to qualify with a recent credit setback. You can also choose your payment date, which helps with budgeting.

5.     Upstart

Best for: Nontraditional underwriting

Minimum Credit Score: 580

Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000

APR: 7.8% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 3 or 5 years

Origination Fee: Up to 12%

Upstart evaluates more than just your credit score. It uses artificial intelligence to factor in your education, employment, and income, making it easier for some borrowers with bad credit to qualify.

Consider this: Higher origination fees can apply if your credit profile is weak.

6.     SeedFi (Borrow & Grow Plan)

Best for: Building credit while borrowing

Minimum Credit Score: No minimum

Loan Amounts: $300 – $4,000 (with savings component)

APR: Up to 29.99%

Repayment Terms: 7 – 27 months

Origination Fee: $0

SeedFi is designed to help you borrow and save simultaneously. A portion of the loan is given upfront, and the rest is locked in a savings account until you finish repaying. Perfect for those working on credit repair.

7.     NetCredit

Best for: Small loans and fast funding

Minimum Credit Score: Varies

Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $10,000

APR: 19.99% – 155%

Repayment Terms: 6 – 60 months

Origination Fee: Depends on location

NetCredit has a fast online application and is willing to work with low credit scores. Rates can be steep, especially in states with fewer lending regulations, but it may still be better than payday loans or overdraft fees.

Tip: Check your rate and terms before committing—they vary widely.

8.     Oportun

Best for: Limited or no credit history

Minimum Credit Score: None

Loan Amounts: $300 – $10,000

APR: Up to 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 6 – 46 months

Origination Fee: Varies

Oportun is known for serving borrowers who are new to credit. It has physical branches in some states and also offers loans online. If you're building credit for the first time or recovering from financial issues, this is a solid pick.

9.     Best Egg

Best for: Secured personal loan options

Minimum Credit Score: 600

Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $50,000

APR: 8.99% – 35.99%

Repayment Terms: 3 – 5 years

Origination Fee: 0.99% – 8.99%

Best Egg offers both unsecured and secured loans. If your credit score is holding you back, their secured option (backed by your vehicle) could lower your rate and improve your chances of approval.

10.                        Universal Credit

Best for: Bad credit borrowers who want extra tools

Minimum Credit Score: 560

Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000

APR: 11.69% – 35.93%

Repayment Terms: 3 – 5 years

Origination Fee: 5.25% – 9.99%

The same parent company runs both Universal Credit and Upgrade, but adds credit monitoring, educational tools, and budgeting help. It's built for borrowers actively trying to improve their financial standing.

How To Choose A Personal Loan When You Have Bad Credit?

Here’s what to check before applying:

Prequalify without affecting your score: Use soft credit check tools offered by most lenders to see your rate and approval odds before applying.

Watch out for high fees: Some lenders charge origination fees up to 12%. Compare the total cost, not just the APR.

Avoid predatory lenders: Stay away from loans with APRs over 100% or those requiring upfront payments.

Consider a co-signer or secured loan: If you're getting denied, adding a co-signer or offering collateral can improve your chances.

Final Thoughts: Getting Started

If you’re ready to apply, start by checking your rate with a few lenders that offer prequalification—like Upgrade, LendingPoint, and Avant. This won’t impact your credit and helps you compare offers side by side.

For smaller loans, flexible repayment plans, or unique savings features, SeedFi and Oportun are great options. If you want a traditional lender with in-person help and personalized service, OneMain Financial could be your best bet.

Make sure the monthly payment fits your budget, consider the total loan cost, and never rush into a loan without reading the terms. With the right lender, even borrowers with bad credit can access fair and manageable financing.