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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

Smiling couple shaking hands with someone over a laptop
Aug. 7, 2021 | By Lyle Daly

3 Same-Day Loans That Aren't Payday Loans

People in need of fast cash often turn to costly payday loans. Discover some alternatives that don't have sky-high interest rates.
A man sitting on his couch surrounded by plants in a sunny room while online shopping on his laptop and holding a credit card in one hand.
Aug. 4, 2021 | By Lyle Daly

Is 690 a Good Credit Score for a Personal Loan?

Your credit score is a key factor when applying for a personal loan. Here's what you can expect during the loan process with a credit score of 690.
A man standing at the counter in his sunny kitchen and typing on his laptop.
July 28, 2021 | By Dana George

Are Online Loans Safe?

Need a loan but worried about working with an online lender? Keep reading to learn how safe online loans are and how to spot a scam.
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.
Couple meeting with banker in an office.
July 10, 2021 | By Lyle Daly

5 Tips for Getting a Loan if Your Credit Score Is in the 600s

Your credit score is a significant factor when applying for a loan. Discover how you can improve your chances with a credit score in the 600s.
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.
Young couple meets with an agent.
July 5, 2021 | By Elizabeth Aldrich

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Getting an Auto Loan

Make sure to avoid overpriced warranties, compare rates from various lenders, and choose the right loan amount and term before you take out an auto loan. Read on to learn more.
A couple reviewing bills together on a laptop while sitting in their kitchen.
July 1, 2021 | By Kimberly Rotter, AFC®

5 Myths About Debt Consolidation

Don't let the myths surrounding debt consolidation hold you back from considering this strategy for paying off debt. Keep reading to learn more.
Two people driving in a car on a sunny day while looking up directions on a smartphone.
June 26, 2021 | By Brittney Myers

Experts Warn of Summer Car Shortage -- Should You Buy?

Unless you're in dire need of new wheels, it may be better to wait. Read the full article to see why.
Three people smile as they look at paperwork in an office.
June 26, 2021 | By Dana George

This Is the Smallest Personal Loan You Can Get

Personal loans are great for covering large projects like home renovations. But what if you only need a small loan? Keep reading to learn more about small personal loans and how to get them.
Someone signing loan paperwork and being handed money.
Feb. 20, 2021 | By Dana George

Do You Believe Any of These 4 Personal Loan Myths?

Considering a personal loan? Read on to learn more about the top personal loan myths making the rounds.
Stacks of coins in increasing size with blocks spelling the word FEES atop the piles.
Feb. 18, 2021 | By Dana George

5 Sneaky Personal Loan Fees to Watch Out For

Some lenders nickel and dime you with expensive fees. Here are five to look out for.
A man crouching on the floor next to tools while repairing a bathroom sink.
Feb. 12, 2021 | By Dana George

3 Times a Personal Loan Is Better Than a Credit Card

You may someday have to choose between taking out a personal loan and using a credit card. Read on to learn about the three times a personal loan trumps a credit card.
A woman sitting with her feet up on a desk in her home office and writing a to-do list in a notebook.
Feb. 12, 2021 | By Dana George

5 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Personal Loan

Before you take out a personal loan, think it through. Read on to learn what questions you should ask yourself first.
A woman reading paperwork at a table in front of large windows.
Jan. 6, 2021 | By Dana George

Many Americans Have Multiple Personal Loans. Is This a Problem?

Studies show that many Americans owe on more than one personal loan. We examine how it may have happened and when it's a problem.
A woman writes on a piece of paper while looking at bills and a laptop.
Jan. 3, 2021 | By Dana George

5 Things You Need to Do Before Applying for a Personal Loan

Do these five things before you apply for a personal loan to save time and money.
A smiling dad holding up his laughing daughter while they decorate a Christmas tree.
Nov. 18, 2020 | By Dana George

Poor Credit? Don't Fall for a Christmas Loan

Christmas loans may sound nice, but they're a bad choice for anyone with poor credit. Here's why.
A group of smiling young adults drinking cocktails at a rooftop party at sunset.
Nov. 5, 2020 | By Dana George

3 Ways Debt Consolidation Can Change Your Life

If you find yourself with high-interest debt, consolidating it can get you out of debt faster and save you thousands. Here's how it works.
A smiling mother and her young daughter playing and chasing each other in their living room.
Oct. 14, 2020 | By Dana George

5 Times a Home Equity Loan Makes Sense

Different situations call for different loans. Here are five times the best option for you may be a home equity loan.
A young couple signing up for a loan and shaking hands with a bank representative.
Oct. 8, 2020 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

LendingClub Is Ending Its P2P Lending Platform -- Now What?

LendingClub is ending its original personal loan marketplace for retail investors. What are the next steps for the company?
A woman leaning over a man's shoulder as he sits in front of a laptop with his head resting in his hand and holds up a piece of paper.
Sept. 17, 2020 | By Dana George

What to Do if You Can't Pay Your Personal Loan

If your finances are a mess and you can't pay a personal loan, your credit score will take a hit. Rather than skip payments, take these steps.