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There are many different types of loans. And when you need money quickly, it can be challenging to assess the pros and cons of different options. It can also be challenging to assess which loans are right for you if you’re still building credit.

Many loans require a credit check, and your credit score may affect the interest rate and terms you are able to qualify for when borrowing a loan. But what if you have no credit or bad credit? There may be other loans available outside of personal loans from banks. Income-based loans, which evaluate your income as a primary deciding factor, may be an option to consider. These loans could give you the cash you need but also have some potential drawbacks. Here is what to know about loans based on income.

How Does a Loan Based on Income Work?

Personal loans can be used to pay for nearly any type of expense. In addition to the flexibility for use of funds, other advantages of personal loans include convenience, lower rates than credit cards (typically), and quick turnaround times. Generally, lenders will evaluate an applicant’s credit history in order to make lending decisions.

Loans based on income, also known as income-based loans, work differently. Instead of focusing on an applicant’s credit score and history, these loans take your income into account. While “income-based loans” and “loans based on income” are terms you may see when researching personal loans, these are primarily marketing terms. The companies who use these may be using income as a method of evaluating loan applications, making them an option for borrowers looking for no credit check loans.

With a loan based on income, the lender may ask for proof of income, such as a W-2, paystub, tax returns, and/or recent bank statements. You’ll also need to share personal information on the loan application, such as your address and social security number. But unlike a traditional personal loan, the evaluation may not include a credit check.

Because the lender isn’t considering credit, the terms of the loan may be different from a traditional personal loan. For example, the loan may have a high interest rate or require collateral. Collateral is when you, as a borrower, put up an item of value to back the loan in case you are unable to pay back the loan. This might be something like your car or even your house.

Whether a loan requires collateral determines whether it is a secured or unsecured loan. Both options may be part of an income-based personal loan.

Recommended: Using Collateral on a Personal Loan

Secured Loan

A secured loan is a loan that requires the borrower to put up collateral and can be an option for borrowers with poor or thin credit. These loans can take several forms:

Pawn loan. A pawnshop loan is where you put an item of value up as collateral, such as jewelry or electronics, in exchange for the loan. In addition to collateral, you’ll also have to pay the loan back with interest. If you are unable to do so, the pawn shop will then own the collateral and may sell it. Pawn loans can also be an option for those looking for no bank account loans.

Title loan. If you own your vehicle, you may be able to take out a loan for the valued amount of your car. In a title loan, you physically keep possession of your car, but the lender can hold the title of your vehicle. Interest rates for this type of loan can be very high — up to an APR equivalent of 300% — and can be risky. After all, if your income depends on your ability to drive to work, losing ownership of your car may mean that your ability to work is in jeopardy, too.

Home equity loan. If you own your home, you can borrow against the value of your home’s equity through different types of loans, including cash-out refinance, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a fixed-rate home equity loan. These types of loans can require a relatively lengthy approval process, and may not be appropriate if you need cash quickly, or if you need a relatively small loan.

Unsecured Loan

An unsecured loan does not require collateral. For this reason, this type of loan poses more risk to the lender. If you do not pay back the loan, the process to get back their money can take a long time, involve the legal system, and may be fruitless if you declare bankruptcy.

That’s why lenders may require a more extensive application, including performing a credit check on the potential borrower. If you, as a borrower, know that your credit history isn’t great or you are still building your credit, you may have fewer unsecured personal loan options.

Still, there may be some available. Knowing the pros and cons, reading the fine print, and having a clear plan for how to pay back the loan can be important in assessing which one is the right one for you.

Payday Loans

One type of loan that might be accessible for people with no or bad credit is a payday loan. This is usually a short-term, high-cost loan that is due on your next payday. Typically, payday loans are relatively small (generally under $500) and some states may have a limit as to how much people can borrow.

Payday loans are, like their name, due on your next payday or when you next get income. A payday loan typically has a relatively high interest rate may have fees as well. To ensure your loan is paid back, the lender may ask for a postdated check or money order. One of the problems with a payday loan is that if you can’t repay it on time and have to renew the loan, you can end up falling into the payday loan cycle. This can cause debt to snowball, and cost a lot of money in the long run.

Alternatives to Loans Based on Income

If you need money quickly, you may have some other options available. These could include:

Using a credit card or credit line. If you have access to credit, utilizing a credit card or credit line could help you through a financial rough patch. But because interest rates can be high, having a plan to pay back what you borrow or taking advantage of a card with a low APR can be a good strategy.

Borrowing from friends or family. Sometimes a loan from a friend or family member can be more flexible than borrowing from a lender. It can be a good idea to consider drafting an agreement, even if it’s relatively informal, regarding expectations, any interest agreements, and other conditions.

Selling things. Selling things you no longer need may help you raise cash quickly. Using local online marketplaces can be a quick way to unload things you’re not using and raise money.

Starting a side hustle. While it can take time to onboard onto a new job, applying for part-time jobs could be a potential long-term strategy to access more money. In the short-term, informal jobs such as babysitting, tutoring, or other work could help you raise the cash you need.

The Takeaway

Finding yourself in a financial lurch can be scary. But taking the time to weigh pros and cons of options may be helpful in choosing a sustainable path forward. Understanding the benefits and risks of loans based on income can help you assess whether this type of loan makes sense for your current financial circumstances.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

Photo credit: iStock/Khosrork

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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As you’re shopping around for the best terms and rates on a personal loan, you may wonder: Is it better to apply for a loan online or in person? While both options can lead you to securing a personal loan, the process and even the fees and rates can differ for an online loan application vs. in-person.

If you need help deciding which option to go with, this guide can help you figure out whether you should look at applying for a loan online vs. in person.

What Is an Online Personal Loan?

An online personal loan is a type of installment loan that you borrow and agree to pay back with interest. Personal loans are usually unsecured loans, which means you don’t have to put up collateral (such as a house) to be able to get the loan. Since unsecured loans pose more risk to lenders, interest rates tend to be higher compared to secured loans.

Personal loans are known for being flexible, and there are several ways to use a personal loan. You can use one to consolidate credit card debt or pay for home renovations, medical expenses, a vacation, a large purchase, or just about any other personal expense.

An online personal loan acts like a regular personal loan with the only difference being that the lender has a presence online. Online loans can come from traditional banks, or they may come from lenders who only operate online.

What Is an In-Person Personal Loan?

Getting an in-person personal loan allows you to obtain a personal loan with the assistance of a bank or credit union employee. They can help you through the process. From collecting documents to submitting your loan application, there’s a lot of attention that an employee can give you when you apply for one of the different types of personal loans.

Applying for a Loan Online vs In-Person

Applying for an online personal loan has never been easier or faster. Technology automates much of the process so you can know what the lender’s decision is fairly quickly — often on the same day.

Beyond the ease with which you can apply for a loan online or in person, there are a number of other factors you’ll want to consider.

Fees

Fees and rates can differ from loan to loan. Shopping around for rates and fees is going to help you compare personal loan interest rates and find the lowest personal loan origination fees and APRs out there.

While you might see low rates for online lenders, you may also be able to negotiate a low rate with the bank representative. Sometimes, having an existing relationship with the bank can help you get a lower interest rate, or even help with getting approved for a personal loan.

Approval Process

When you get to the approval process, an online loan application vs. in-person is going to be faster. This is because technology automates much of the process for approval when you apply online. Sometimes, you can receive a decision — or even funding — on the same day.

With an in-person application, you can expect to wait several days or even longer for loan approval and disbursement. Plus, not as many banks and credit unions allow you to prequalify like online lenders often do, which can give you an idea of your odds of approval and your potential rate without impacting your credit score.

Convenience

If you’re the type that can quickly fill out information online and upload documents with ease, you may just want to apply online. However, if you would prefer some help through the process of applying for a personal loan, you may consider finding a physical location of the bank or credit union instead.

Security

When it comes to security, applying online for a personal loan is as safe as any other online transaction. Yet, that might not make you feel comfortable enough to do it. If you’re not confident in transmitting personal information over the web, you might consider visiting a branch location to apply for a personal loan.

Personalized Support

Support can be seen as more attentive at an in-person branch. You can have your issues heard and the bank employee can explain things like the personal loan principal and the personal loan maturity date so they make sense.

Online support can be hit or miss, depending on the company. This is one area where an in-person experience might make you happier.

Which Is Better: Applying for a Personal Loan Online or In-Person?

If you value personalized attention, you might prefer to apply for a personal loan in person. On the other hand, if you’re tech-savvy and appreciate the speed and savings an online lender can offer, you may prefer to apply for a personal loan online instead.

At the end of the day, you’ll see advantages with each option whether you choose to apply for a loan online or in person. What’s really important is to find a loan with the most competitive terms and the lowest rate.

The Takeaway

Applying online for a personal loan may allow for a faster approval and funding process, plus you can complete the entirety of the application from the comfort of your home. If you’d rather have someone there to walk you through the process, and you have a longstanding relationship with your bank or credit union that you think could favorably impact the terms you receive, then applying in-person might be better. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference — and where you can get the best offer for a loan.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

FAQ

Is applying for a loan online safer than applying for a loan in person?

Applying for a loan online is considered as safe as applying for a loan in person. If you’re worried about sharing your personal information online, you can go into a credit union or bank branch and apply in person.

Is there a difference in cost when applying for a loan online vs in person?

Whether you’re applying for a loan online or in person, it’s a good idea to shop around for the best rates and terms. Online lenders may have lower overhead costs and be able to pass those savings on to customers. On the other hand, banks where you apply in person may be able to offer rate or fee discounts for existing customers.

Is it quicker to apply for a loan online or in person?

In most situations, it is quicker to apply for a loan online than in person. Processing is generally faster, too.

Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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The funds from a personal loan can be used for anything from paying off high-interest credit card debt to buying a new spinning bike. But how hard is it to qualify for a $3,000 personal loan? And what if you have bad credit?

Online lenders tend to cater more to borrowers with bad credit. They may also charge higher interest rates and financing fees because a borrower with bad credit is considered higher risk.

Read on to find out how to get a personal loan, what credit score you need for a personal loan, and where to go to get a loan if you have bad credit.

Can I Get a $3,000 Personal Loan with Bad Credit?

A personal loan is money borrowed from a bank, credit union, or online lender. Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, and the principal is paid back with interest in fixed monthly payments, typically over several months to seven years. Personal loans are flexible, meaning they can be used for virtually any purpose, from a cross-country move to home improvements.

Getting approved for a personal loan that is $3,000 with bad credit may mean you have to jump through a few hoops to qualify. What is bad credit? According to FICO^®, someone with a score of 580 or below is considered to have “poor” credit (their lowest rating tier) and poses a high risk to a lender.

When calculating an individual’s credit score, FICO and other rating agencies will look at a variety of factors, including whether you pay bills on time, how long you have held credit lines or loans, how much of your available credit you are currently using, how often lenders have pulled your credit report, and your history of bankruptcy or foreclosure.

A low credit score indicates that you could be at a higher risk of defaulting on a loan. To compensate for that risk, a lender may charge you a higher interest rate for a loan or credit card, or you may have to put down a deposit or provide collateral.

What Is the Typical Credit Score Required for a $3,000 Personal Loan?

While some personal loan lenders allow you to apply with a very low credit score, many require a minimum credit score of 660 or 700 to be considered for a $3,000 personal loan. Generally, the higher your credit score, the less interest you will pay.

Benefits of a $3,000 Personal Loan

The benefits of a $3,000 personal loan include flexibility and predictability. The loan can be used for pretty much anything you need, and the payments will be the same each month until the loan is paid off.

Interest Rates and Flexible Terms

The interest rate for a personal loan will typically be fixed for the term of the loan, and the repayment terms are flexible, ranging between a few months to seven (or more) years. Personal loans typically have a lower interest rate than a credit card, and the rates can be much better if you have excellent credit. You might also be able to borrow more using a personal loan versus a credit card.

No Collateral Required

An unsecured personal loan does not require any collateral. Some loans require the borrower to use their car or home as an asset to guarantee the loan. The interest rate may be a little higher for an unsecured loan than it would be for a secured loan because the lender assumes more risk, but you won’t risk your car or home if you default.

Recommended: Secured vs. Unsecured Personal Loans

Fixed Monthly Payments

A personal loan will have fixed monthly payments for the life of the loan, which makes budgeting for bills easier.

Cons of a $3,000 Personal Loan

A personal loan might not be the best option depending on your situation and the loan’s purpose. Here are some of the downsides to a personal loan.

Debt Accumulation

Many people use personal loans to pay off credit card debt because the interest paid on a credit card is generally more than the interest paid on a personal loan. However, this can be a double-edged sword if clearing your credit card balances tempts you to use those cards again and rack up even more debt.

Origination Fees and Penalties

Personal loans may come with significant fees and penalties that can drive up the cost of borrowing. Though some lenders don’t charge origination fees, these fees are common and can run as high as 10% of the loan amount. If you decide to pay off the balance before the term ends, you may have to pay a penalty.

Interest Rates May Be Higher Than Other Options

This is particularly true for people who have a low credit score. In that case, a credit card might charge a lower rate than a personal loan.

If you have equity in your home, another option is a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Alternatively, a balance transfer credit card might charge a lower interest rate than you’re currently paying on your credit card balance.

Where Can I Get a $3,000 Personal Loan?

You can get a personal loan from online lenders, commercial banks, and credit unions. Online lenders offer a streamlined application process and loans are often funded within two days. You can also typically get prequalified and see your potential loan terms before you apply. An online lender might do a soft credit check to prequalify you for a loan, but your credit rating will not be affected.

Credit unions may offer lower interest rates and more flexible terms for members. Federally chartered credit unions cap annual percentage rates (APRs) at 18%, so borrowers with imperfect credit may receive lower rates than they would elsewhere. A history with a credit union might boost your eligibility.

A bank will typically require good credit to qualify for a personal loan. You may also need an account with the bank. Account holders are likely to qualify for the lowest interest rates and bigger loans. You may have to visit a branch and complete the application in person.

How to Apply for a $3,000 Personal Loan

1.    Check your credit reports. You may find errors on your reports that you can fix to boost your eligibility for lower-rate loans.

2.    Compare the terms and conditions offered by lenders. A personal loan calculator can help you determine what your payments will be.

3.    Prequalify if you can, because it won’t affect your credit score and will help you with your comparison.

4.    Consider using your car or other collateral to get a better rate with a secured loan.

5.    Use a cosigner (with good credit) to get a better rate. The cosigner’s credit rating is considered along with your own, but they must agree to pay the loan if you cannot.

6.    Gather the documents you need and apply to the best lender. Examples of documents you may be asked to provide are W-2s, paystubs, and financial statements.

$5,000 Personal Loan

Here’s an example of what your costs would be if you took out a $5,000 loan with a three year term at various APRs:

$10,000 Personal Loan

The monthly payment on a personal loan of $10,000 with an 12% APR and a three-year term would be $332.13. The loan’s total interest cost by the end of the term would be $1,957.15.

If you were to opt for the same loan amount and rate but a five-year (rather than three-year) term, the monthly payment would be $222.44 and total interest cost would be $3,346.67.

The Takeaway

A personal loan is a way to get flexible financing quickly. A personal loan can be used for nearly any purpose, and the term of the loan can range from a few months to seven or more years. Banks, credit unions, and online lenders offer these loans at varying interest rates.

Personal loans are popular for people who want to consolidate their debt or pay off credit cards that charge a higher interest rate. The requirements for a $3,000 personal loan depend on the lender, but a good credit score will typically get you a better rate.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

FAQ

What credit score is needed for a $3,000 personal loan?

A score of at least 610 to 640 is typically required to qualify for an unsecured personal loan. To qualify for a lender’s lowest interest rate, however, borrowers generally need a score of at least 800.

Is it possible to get a $3,000 loan with bad credit?

Some lenders, particularly online lenders, will extend personal loans to people with bad credit. In fact, some online lenders will specifically advertise personal loans for borrowers with bad credit. However, the terms may include high interest rates and fees.

What’s the monthly payment on a $3,000 personal loan?

The monthly payment on a $3,000 personal loan will depend on the loan term and the interest rate. For example, the monthly payment on a two-year $3,000 loan with an annual percentage rate (APR) of 12% would be $141.22.The monthly payment on a $3,000 loan with a six-year term and an APR of 12% would be $58.65.

Photo credit: iStock/nortonrsx

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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If you’re strapped for cash and have a hard time qualifying for traditional loans, or you live in an underbanked area, you may be considering a pawnshop loan. They appear to be a convenient option for fast cash, but they can also come with significant disadvantages, including high fees.

Before putting your valuables down in pawn, learn more about what pawnshop loans are and how they work.

What Is a Pawnshop Loan?

A pawnshop loan is a secured, or collateralized, loan. To borrow the money, you must produce an item of value as collateral – such as a piece of jewelry, a musical instrument, electronics, or an antique – that provides backing for the loan. You and the seller agree to a loan amount and a term. If you don’t pay back the loan (plus fees) within the agreed amount of time, the pawnshop can sell the item to recoup their losses.

Pawnshops will typically offer you 25% to 60% of the resale value of an item. The average size of a pawnshop loan is $150 with a term of around 30 days.

Aside from the need for collateral, there are few other requirements to qualify for a pawnshop loan. You typically don’t need to prove your income or submit to a credit check.

Recommended: No Credit Check Loans Guide

How Do Pawnshop Loans Work?

Pawnshops don’t charge interest on the loans they offer. However, the borrower is responsible for paying financing fees that can make the cost of borrowing higher than other loan options.

Regulations around what pawnshops can charge vary by state, but you could end up paying the equivalent of many times the interest charged by conventional loans.

Say you bring in a $600 guitar to a pawnshop, and they offer you 25% of the resale value, or $150. On top of that, let’s say the pawnshop charges a financing fee of 25% of the loan. That means you’ll owe $37.50 in financing fees, or $187.50 in total.

If you agree to the loan, the pawnbroker will typically give you cash immediately. They’ll also give you a pawn ticket, which acts as a receipt for the item you’ve pawned. Keep that ticket in a safe place. If you lose it, you may not be able to retrieve your item.

You’ll usually have 30 to 60 days to repay your loan and claim your item. According to the National Pawnbrokers Association, 85% of people manage to do this successfully. When a borrower pays off a pawnshop loan, they can retrieve the item they put in pawn. For those who don’t, the pawnshop will keep the item and put it up for sale. There is no other penalty for failing to pay off your loan, but you do lose your item permanently.

Recommended: Can You Get a Loan Without a Bank Account?

The Pros and Cons of Pawnshop Loans

In general, it’s best to seek traditional forms of lending, such as a personal loan from a bank, credit union, or online lender, if you can. These loans tend to be cheaper and can help you build credit. However, if you need cash the same day and you don’t qualify for other loans, you might consider a pawnshop loan. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to help you make your decision.

Pros of a Pawnshop Loan

•   Access to cash quickly. When you agree to a pawnshop loan, you can typically walk out with cash in hand immediately.

•   No qualifications. The ability to provide an object of value is often the only qualification for a pawnshop loan.

•   Failure to pay doesn’t hurt credit. While you will certainly lose the item that you put in pawn if you don’t pay back your loan, there are no other ramifications. Your credit score will not take a hit.

•   Loans aren’t sent to collections. If you don’t pay back your loan, no collections agency will hound you until you pay.

Recommended: How Do Collection Agencies Work?

Cons of a Pawnshop Loan

•   High fees. The financing fees associated with pawnshop loans can be much more expensive than traditional methods of obtaining credit, including credit cards and personal loans. Consider that the average annual percentage rate (APR) on a personal loan is currently 12.21%, whereas pawnshop financing fees, when converted into an APR, can be 200% or more.

•   Loans are relatively small. The average size of a pawnshop loan is just $150. If you need money to cover a more costly expense, you may end up scrambling for cash elsewhere.

•   You won’t build credit. Pawnshop loans are not reported to the credit reporting bureaus, so paying them off on time doesn’t benefit your credit.

•   You may lose your item. If you can’t come up with the money by the due date, you’ll lose the item you put in pawn. (Same if you lose your pawn ticket.)

Pros and Cons at a Glance

What Is a Pawnshop Title Loan?

A pawnshop title loan is a loan in which you use the title of your car as collateral for your loan. You can typically continue driving your vehicle over the course of the loan agreement. However, as with other pawnshop loans, if you fail to repay your loan on time, the pawnbroker can seize your car.

Typical Requirements to Get a Loan Through a Pawnshop

There are typically few requirements to get a pawnshop loan, since the loan is collateralized by the item you put in pawn and the pawnbroker holds on to that item over the course of the loan. However, pawnbrokers do want to avoid dealing in stolen goods, so they may require that you show some proof of ownership, such as a receipt.

Alternative Loan Options

There are a number of benefits of personal loans that make them a good alternative to pawnshop loans. Personal loans are usually unsecured, meaning there is usually no collateral required for a personal loan. Lenders will typically run a credit check, and borrowers with good credit scores usually qualify for the best terms and interest rates. That said, some lenders offer personal loans for people with bad credit.

If you qualify for a personal loan, the loan amount will be given to you in a lump sum, which you then typically repay (plus interest) in monthly installments over the term of the loan, often two to seven years. The money can be used for virtually any purpose.

Personal loans payments are reported to the credit reporting bureaus, and on-time payments can help you build a positive credit profile.

The Takeaway

If you only need a small amount of money, you don’t qualify for other credit, or if you’re looking for a loan without a bank account, you may consider a pawnshop loan. Just beware that they are potentially costly alternatives to other forms of credit.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

FAQ

How is a loan obtained through a pawnshop?

To borrow money from a pawnshop you must present an item of value that can act as collateral for the loan. The pawnbroker may then provide a loan based on the value of that item.

What happens if you don’t pay back your pawnshop loan?

If you fail to pay back your pawnshop loan on time, you won’t be able to reclaim the item you put up as collateral for the loan. The pawnshop will sell it to recoup their losses.

What’s the most a pawnshop loan will pay?

On average, a pawnshop will loan you about 25% to 60% of an item’s resale value. The average pawnshop loan is $150 and is repaid in about 30 days.

Photo credit: iStock/miriam-doerr
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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The average credit card balance in the U.S. increased by 10% in 2023 to $6,5013, according to Experian’s 2023 Consumer Credit Review. And according to a November 2023 Bankrate survey, a full 49% of cardholders carry credit card debt from month to month. Considering the average credit card interest rate in the U.S. today is 24.71%, carrying a credit card balance can get costly. The question is, how do you get out from under high-interest credit card debt?

One method to consider is taking out a personal loan (ideally with a lower rate than you’re paying on your credit cards) and using the funds to pay off your credit card debt. If you’re currently paying off multiple cards, this approach also simplifies repayment by giving you just one bill to keep track of and pay each month. Still, there are pros and cons to consider if you’re thinking about getting a personal loan to pay off credit cards. Read on to learn more.

How Using a Personal Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt Works

Personal loans are a type of unsecured loan. There are a number of uses of personal loans, including paying off credit card debt. Loan amounts can vary by lender and will be paid to the borrower in one lump sum after the loan is approved. The borrower then pays back the loan — with interest — in monthly installments that are set by the loan terms.

Many unsecured personal loans come with a fixed interest rate (which means it won’t change over the life of the loan), though there are different types of personal loans. An applicant’s interest rate is determined by a set of factors, including their financial history, credit score, income, and other debt. Typically, the higher an applicant’s credit score, the better their interest rate will be, as the lender may view them as a less risky borrower. Lenders may offer individuals with low credit scores a higher interest rate, presuming they are more likely to default on their loans.

When using a personal loan to pay off credit card debt, the loan proceeds are used to pay off the cards’ outstanding balances, consolidating the debts into one loan. This is why it’s also sometimes referred to as a debt consolidation loan. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate than the credit cards. By consolidating credit card debt into a personal loan, a borrower’s monthly payments can be more manageable and cost less in interest.

Finally, using an unsecured personal loan to pay off credit cards also has the benefit of ending the cycle of credit card debt without resorting to a balance transfer card. Balance transfer credit cards offer an introductory rate that’s lower or sometimes even 0%. This might seem like an appealing offer. But if the balance isn’t paid off before the promotional offer is up, the cardholder could end up paying an even higher interest rate than they started with. Plus, balance transfer cards often charge a balance transfer fee, which could ultimately increase the total debt someone owes.

Recommended: Balance Transfer Credit Cards vs Personal Loans

Understanding Credit Card Debt vs. Personal Loan Debt

At the end of the day, both credit card debt and personal loan debt are both simply money owed. However, personal loan debt is generally less costly than credit card debt. This is due to the interest rates typically charged by credit cards compared to those of personal loans.

The average credit card interest rate is 24.71%. Meanwhile, the average personal loan interest rate is 12.21%. Given this difference in average interest rates, it can cost you much more over time to carry credit card debt, which is why taking out a personal loan to pay off credit cards can be an option worth exploring.

Keep in mind, however, that the rate you pay on both credit cards and personal loans is dependent on your credit history and other financial factors.

Taking Out a Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Pros and Cons

While on the surface it may seem like taking out a personal loan to pay off credit card debt could be the best solution, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well. Here’s a look at the pros and cons:

How Frequently Can You Use Personal Loans to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?

Taking out a personal loan to pay off credit cards generally isn’t a habit you want to get into. Ideally, it will serve as a one-time solution to dig you out of your credit card debt.

Applying for a personal loan will result in a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your credit score. If you apply for new loans too often, this could not only drag down your credit score but also raise a red flag for lenders.

Additionally, if you find yourself repeatedly re-amassing credit card debt, this is a signal that it’s time to assess your financial habits and rein in your spending. Although a personal loan to pay off credit cards can certainly serve as a lifeline to get your financial life back in order, it’s not a habit to get into as it still involves taking out new debt.

So You’ve Decided to Apply for a Personal Loan to Pay Off a Credit Card. Now What?

The steps for paying off a credit card with an unsecured personal loan aren’t particularly complicated, but having a plan in place is important. Here’s what you can expect.

Getting the Whole Picture

It can be scary, but getting the hard numbers — how much debt is owed overall, how much is owed on each specific card, and what the respective interest rates are — can give you a sense of what personal loan amount might be helpful to pay off credit cards.

Choosing a Personal Loan to Pay off Credit Card Debt

These days, you can do most — or all — personal loan research online. A personal loan with an interest rate lower than the credit card’s current rate is an important thing to look for. Origination fees, which can add to a person’s overall debt and possibly throw off their payoff plan, is another thing to watch out for.

Paying Off the Debt

Once an applicant has chosen, applied for, and qualified for a personal loan, they’ll likely want to immediately take that money and pay off their credit card debt in full.

Be aware that the process of receiving a personal loan may differ. Some lenders will pay off the borrower’s credit card companies directly, while others will send the borrower a lump sum that they’ll then use to pay off the credit cards themself.

Hiding Those Credit Cards

One potential risk of using a personal loan to pay off credit cards is that it can make it easier to accumulate more debt. The purpose of using a personal loan to pay off credit card debt is to keep from repeating the cycle. Consider taking steps like hiding credit cards in a drawer and trying to use them as little as possible.

Paying Off Your Personal Loan

A benefit of using a personal loan for debt consolidation is that there is only one monthly payment to worry about instead of several. Not missing any of those loan payments is important — setting up autopay or a monthly reminder/alert can be helpful.

Budgeting Debt Payoff

Before embarking on paying off credit card debt, a good first step is making a budget, which can help you better manage their spending. You might even find ways to free up more money to put toward that outstanding debt.

If you have more than one type of debt — for instance, a personal loan, student loan, and maybe a car loan — you may want to think strategically about how to tackle them. Some finance experts recommend taking on the debt with the highest interest rate first, a strategy known as the avalanche method. As those high-interest-rate debts are paid off, there is typically more money in the budget to pay down other debts.

Another approach, known as the snowball method, is to pay off the debts with the smallest balances first. This method offers a psychological boost through small wins early on, and over time can allow room in the budget to make larger payments on other outstanding debts.

Of course, for either of these strategies, keeping current on payments for all debts is essential.

Where Can You Get a Personal Loan to Pay off Credit Cards?

If you’ve decided to get a personal loan to pay off credit cards, you’ll next need to decide where you can get one. There are a few different options for personal loans: online lenders, credit unions, and banks.

Online Lenders

There are a number of online lenders that offer personal loans. Many offer fast decisions on loans, and you can often get funding quickly as well.

While securing the lowest rates often necessitates a high credit score, there are online lenders that offer personal loans for those with lower credit scores. Rates can vary widely from lender to lender, so it’s important to shop around to find the most competitive offer available to you. Be aware that lenders also may charge origination fees.

Credit Unions

Another option for getting a personal loan to pay off credit cards is through a credit union. You’ll need to be a member in order to get a loan from a credit union, which means meeting membership criteria. This could include working in a certain industry, living in a specific area, or having a family member who is already a member. Others may simply require a one-time donation to a particular organization.

Because credit unions are member-owned nonprofits, they tend to return their profits to members through lower rates and fees. Additionally, credit unions may be more likely to lend to those with less-than-stellar credit because of their community focus and potential consideration of additional aspects of your finances beyond just your credit score.

Banks

Especially if you already have an account at a bank that offers personal loans, this could be an option to explore. Banks may even offer discounts to those with existing accounts. However, you’ll generally need to have solid credit to get approved for a personal loan through a bank, and some may require you to be an existing customer.

You may be able to secure a larger loan through a bank than you would with other lenders.

Recommended: Credit Unions vs. Banks

The Takeaway

High-interest credit card debt can be a huge financial burden. If you’re only able to make minimum payments on your credit cards, your debt will continue to increase, and you can find yourself in a vicious debt cycle. Personal loans are one potential way to end that cycle, allowing you to pay off debt in one fell swoop and hopefully replace it with a single, more manageable loan.

Remember, however, personal loans aren’t for everyone. While they typically have lower interest rates than credit cards, they are still debt and need to be considered carefully and used responsibly.

Ready for a personal loan to pay off credit card debt? With lower fixed interest rates on loans of $5K to $100K, a SoFi Personal Loan for credit card debt could substantially decrease your monthly bills.

FAQ

Can you use a personal loan to pay off credit cards?

Yes, it is possible to use a personal loan to pay off credit cards. The process involves applying for a personal loan (ideally one with a lower interest rate than you are paying on your credit cards) then using the loan proceeds to pay off your existing credit card debt. Then, you will begin making payments to repay the personal loan.

How is your credit score impacted if you use a personal loan to pay off credit cards?

When you apply for a personal loan, the lender will conduct what’s known as a hard inquiry. This can temporarily lower your credit score. However, taking out a personal loan to pay off credit cards could ultimately have a positive impact on your credit if you make on-time payments, if the loan improves your credit mix, and if the loan helps you pay off your outstanding debt faster.

What options are available to pay off your credit card?

Options for paying off credit card debt include:

•   Taking out a personal loan (ideally with a lower interest rate than you’re paying on your credit cards) and using it to pay off your balances.

•   Using a 0% balance transfer credit card.

•   Exploring a debt payoff strategy like the snowball or avalanche method.

•   Consulting with a credit counselor.

•   Enrolling in a debt management plan.

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