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Personal Loans Articles

When you're trying to get out of debt, a personal loan may be right for you. Get more information about personal loans and whether they are a good fit for your situation.
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Recent Articles

A man working on his laptop sitting in a cafe.
Sept. 24, 2022 | By Dana George

3 Reasons to Think Twice Before Committing to a Loan With a Balloon Payment

A loan with a balloon payment keeps monthly payments low. Keep reading to learn why that may not be enough to make a balloon loan a good option.
A couple discusses their finances with a bank associate.
Sept. 21, 2022 | By Dana George

3 Ways to Ensure 'Loan Grading' Works in Your Favor

Lenders use loan grading to determine the terms of your loan. Here are three ways to score the highest possible grade.
A group of wedding attendees in formal attire smile and toast their drinks.
Sept. 7, 2022 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

Getting Married? Here's the Best Type of Personal Loan to Cover the Party

There are many different types of personal loans that can help you meet your goals. Read on to find out the best type for a wedding.
A woman sitting in front of her couch with her laptop and celebrating with her hand in the air.
Aug. 31, 2022 | By Dana George

Interest Rates for Personal Loans Have Fallen. Is Now a Good Time to Borrow?

For the first time in 50 years, the average personal loan rate has dropped below 9%. Keep reading to find out if now is a good time to apply.
A couple signing paperwork with a realtor in a new house.
Aug. 29, 2022 | By Brittney Myers

Have Big Plans? Here Are 5 Times Your Personal Credit May Not Be Enough

A personal credit history is a pillar of modern personal finance. But it's not always enough. Read on to see some cases where you may need more than your credit.
A man sitting at a desk in front of a laptop and making a phone call while holding up and reading a piece of paper.
Aug. 24, 2022 | By Dana George

4 Alternatives to Short-Term Loans

Short-term loans, like those offered by payday lenders, often come with APRs over 400%. Keep reading to learn more about alternatives available to you.
Car salesman assisting couple with car purchase.
Aug. 15, 2022 | By Brittney Myers

People Are Waiting Weeks for New Cars. Here's How to Make Sure You Don't Miss Out

The car market is in the middle of a perfect storm of shortages and delays. Consider this advice before heading to the dealership.
A couple look over loan documents with their loan officer.
Aug. 7, 2022 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

Americans Are Borrowing Money to Buy Crypto. Should You?

One out of 4 crypto investors have taken out loans to invest in cryptocurrencies. Read on to find out if it's a good idea.
A person sitting at a desk and filling out paperwork.
Aug. 6, 2022 | By Lyle Daly

Dave Ramsey Says Debt Consolidation Doesn't Solve Anything. Is He Right?

Debt consolidation is a popular way to get out of debt. Learn why Dave Ramsey doesn't think it's a good idea and see if his logic makes sense.
A couple talking to a bank officer at a desk.
July 6, 2022 | By Dana George

Thinking of Taking Out a Loan Right Now? Here’s Why That May Be Risky

Debt always carries a measure of risk. Here's what one writer hopes you'll consider before borrowing.
A person driving a car.
June 7, 2022 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

Falling Behind on Your Car Payments? Here Are Your Options

Worried about your car payments? Here are options that can help.
A couple smiles as they enter their new house carrying moving boxes.
April 25, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

86% of Americans Would Live in a Tiny Home. Should You Buy One?

Tiny homes are appealing because they can make living costs more affordable. But is a tiny house for you? Find out what you need to know before buying one.
An adult sits at a desk at home looking through financial documents.
March 19, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

Buy Now, Pay Later Loans Will Soon Appear on Credit Reports

Buy now, pay later loans offer a convenient way for consumers to pay for larger purchases. Soon, BNPL data will appear on consumer credit reports. Find out more.
A couple talking to a bank officer at a desk.
Sept. 26, 2021 | By Kimberly Rotter, AFC®

Can You Get a Loan for $10,000?

Several types of loan can get you $10,000 when you need it. The best loan type partly depends on why you need the money.
Young woman having serious discussion with another person
Sept. 23, 2021 | By Dana George

How to Ask Someone to Cosign a Loan

Asking someone to cosign on a loan is huge. If you're going to do it, make sure you do it right. Here's how.
Young woman looks at her bills with a worried facial expression.
Sept. 3, 2021 | By Dana George

Where Can I Get a Payday Loan?

In some states, finding a payday lender is as easy as finding the nearest strip mall. But why borrow money at astronomically high rates when you have better options?
A young couple looks unsure about signing a financial document in a financer's office.
Sept. 1, 2021 | By Dana George

What Are Payday Loans?

Payday loans are short-term high-interest loans with an average interest rate of 400%. In this expert review, we discuss how they work and possible alternatives.
A woman stands in her kitchen, looking stressed as she stares at some bills.
Aug. 18, 2021 | By Natasha Etzel

Bad News: Taking a Better-Paying Job Could Cost You Big Bucks

Considering a higher-paying job? It may come with hidden expenses, which can add up. Find out more.
A person leans out the passenger side's window of a red car, smiling.
Aug. 13, 2021 | By Dana George

Millions Have Applied for Auto Loans Through Ally in 2021. Should You?

In the midst of a pandemic, Ally auto loans has managed to rack up a record number of vehicle loans. Read more about what sets Ally apart from the competition.
A couple talking to a bank officer at a desk.
July 28, 2021 | By Dana George

Should You Get a Personal Loan? 6 Questions to Ask

Before applying for a personal loan, make sure you know the answers to these six questions.
Man and woman working on a kitchen remodel.
July 21, 2021 | By Brittney Myers

What to Do About Home Improvement Delays and Shortages

Manufacturing delays and labor and material shortages are impacting renovation costs. Here are a few tips for handling those costs.
Two people sitting on a bed and looking at paperwork next to an open laptop.
July 11, 2021 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Debt Consolidation Loan

Before you apply for a debt consolidation loan, pull your credit report, check your credit score, and calculate your monthly payment to make sure it's worth it.
A young adult turning the key in the ignition of a car.
July 10, 2021 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

How Much Should You Spend on a Car? Here's How to Find Out

The monthly cost of car ownership includes your loan payments, interest charges, maintenance expenses, insurance, and more. Here's what you need to know.
A couple sit on the floor in a room with no furniture surrounded by paperwork and bills.
July 9, 2021 | By Lyle Daly

5 Reasons to Get a Debt Consolidation Loan

Unsure if you should apply for a debt consolidation loan? Here are the best reasons to get one.
A woman sitting in the driver's seat of a new car and talking to a salesman through the window.
July 6, 2021 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

4 Times You Might Want to Make a Small Down Payment on a Car

If you can get a car loan with a low interest rate and can afford bigger monthly payments, it might be wise to save some of your cash for unexpected expenses.