LOAN GUIDE
Personal loan
An installment loan for a defined expense or borrowing need.
What to compare
Compare APR, origination fees, the amount actually disbursed and total repayment. An unsecured loan does not require specified collateral, but repayment remains a contractual obligation.
Questions to ask
Check prepayment terms and whether a rate quote requires a hard credit inquiry. Borrow only the amount required for the expense.
Build a complete cost picture
List the amount received, repayment schedule, interest rate, fees and total amount repaid. Use the same amount and term when comparing offers. Check whether the rate can change and whether early repayment carries a charge. An estimate cannot establish approval or eligibility.
Use the Personal loan calculatorResearch providers
Our directory contains sourced identities and locations. A listing alone does not establish that a provider offers this loan type. Confirm products and terms directly.
Banks · Credit unions · Mortgage lenders
Primary resources
CFPB consumer tools · Federal Student Aid · SBA loan programs · USDA farm loan programs