Personal Loan
A personal loan is an amount of money you can borrow to use for a variety of purposes. For instance, you may use a personal loan to consolidate debt, pay for home renovations, or plan a dream wedding. Personal loans can be offered by banks, credit unions, or online lenders. The money you borrow must be repaid over time, typically with interest. Some lenders may also charge fees for personal loans.
- Personal loans are loans that can cover a number of personal expenses.
- You can find personal loans through banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
- Personal loans can be secured, meaning you need collateral to borrow money, or unsecured, with no collateral needed.
- Personal loans can vary greatly when it comes to their interest rates, fees, amounts, and repayment terms.
A personal loan allows you to borrow money to pay for personal expenses and then repay those funds over time. Personal loans are a type of installment debt that allows you to obtain a lump sum of funding. For example, you might use a personal loan to cover:
- Moving expenses
- Debt consolidation
- Medical bills
- Wedding expenses
- Home renovations or repairs
- Funeral costs
- Vacation costs
- Unexpected expenses
These loans are different from other installment loans—such as student loans, car loans, and mortgage loans—that are used to fund specific expenses (i.e. education, vehicle purchase, and home purchase).
To get a personal loan, you need to apply to a lender. Again, this can be a bank, credit union, or online personal loan lender.
Generally, you would first complete an application. The lender reviews it and decides whether to approve or deny it. If approved, you’ll be given the loan terms, which you can accept or reject. If you agree to them, the next step is finalizing your loan paperwork.
When that’s done, the lender will fund the loan, which means paying you the proceeds. Depending on the lender, these may arrive through a direct deposit into your bank account or a check. After the loan is funded, you can use the money as you see fit. You then have to begin repaying the loan according to the terms established in your loan agreement.
The first place to look for personal loans may be your current bank or credit union. Your personal banker can advise you on what types of personal loans may be available and the borrowing options for which you’re most likely to qualify.
Personal loans can also be found online. Numerous lenders offer personal loans online. You can apply electronically, get a decision in minutes and, in some cases, get funding in as little as 24 to 48 hours after loan approval.
When comparing personal loans online or off, pay close attention to the details. Specifically, consider the following:
- Interest rate
- Fees
- Repayment terms
- Borrowing limits (minimum and maximum)
- Collateral requirements