Personal Loans — May 2026

Best Personal Loans of May 2026

No collateral. Fixed rate. Up to $50,000. Compare verified lenders and check your rate in minutes — no hard pull.

Compare Loan Offers Bad Credit Options
6.99%
Starting APR
$50,000
Max Loan Amount
1–3 days
Avg. Funding Time
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Buyer's Guide

How to Compare Personal Loans

Not all personal loans are equal. Focus on these four factors to find the best deal for your situation.

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APR Range

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) includes interest plus fees. Always compare APRs — not just interest rates — for an apples-to-apples comparison. Top lenders start at 6.99% for excellent credit borrowers.

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Origination Fees

Some lenders charge 1%–8% of the loan amount upfront. Others charge zero. A lower rate with a high origination fee can cost more than a slightly higher rate with no fee. Do the math before you sign.

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Loan Terms

Terms typically range from 2 to 7 years. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less total interest. Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase total cost. Match the term to your budget.

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Minimum Credit Score

Lenders set their own minimums. Some require 680+, others work with scores as low as 580. Checking your score before applying helps you target lenders likely to approve you and offer competitive rates.

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More Personal Loan Guides

Best Personal Loans
Our editor picks ranked by APR, funding speed, and borrower accessibility. Updated monthly.
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Bad Credit Loans
Lenders that work with scores below 640. Options for poor credit, no credit, and recent derogatory marks.
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FAQ

Personal Loan Questions Answered

A personal loan is an unsecured loan — no collateral required — that lets you borrow a fixed amount at a fixed interest rate and repay over a set term, typically 2 to 7 years.
Most lenders prefer a credit score of 650 or higher, but many offer loans to borrowers with scores as low as 580. Rates and terms vary significantly by credit score.
Many online lenders can fund your loan within 1 to 3 business days after approval. Some lenders offer same-day or next-day funding for qualified applicants.
Personal loans can be used for nearly any purpose: debt consolidation, home improvement, medical bills, moving expenses, or major purchases. Most lenders do not restrict use.
Personal loan APRs typically range from 6.99% to 35.99% depending on your credit score, income, loan amount, and term. Borrowers with excellent credit qualify for the lowest rates.