Let’s be real—when you need money fast and your credit score is under 600, most lenders slam the door in your face. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
I’ve helped people with bad credit get loans for years, and here’s what I’ve learned: some lenders WILL work with you—if you know where to look.
This guide covers:
- The 5 best lenders for bad credit (real approvals, not scams)
- How to avoid loan sharks and predatory lenders
- Tricks to boost your approval odds—even with a 500 credit score
- Alternatives if you can’t get a loan (some don’t check credit at all)
5 Best Personal Loans for Bad Credit (2025)
These lenders actually approve people with poor or no credit history.
1. Upstart
- Minimum credit score: 300 (yes, really)
- Loan amounts: $1,000 – $50,000
- APR: 6.40% – 35.99%
- Why it’s good: Uses AI to look beyond credit scores (considers education, job history).
Best for: Borrowers with thin credit files (young adults, immigrants).
2. OneMain Financial
- Minimum credit score: None (but usually 550+)
- Loan amounts: $1,500 – $20,000
- APR: 18% – 35.99%
- Why it’s good: In-person branches (you can talk to a real human).
Best for: People who want face-to-face service (not just online).
3. Avant
- Minimum credit score: 580
- Loan amounts: $2,000 – $35,000
- APR: 9.95% – 35.99%
- Why it’s good: Fast funding (money as soon as next day).
Best for: Emergency expenses (car repairs, medical bills).
4. LendingPoint
- Minimum credit score: 580
- Loan amounts: $2,000 – $36,500
- APR: 7.99% – 35.99%
- Why it’s good: Soft credit check first (won’t hurt your score to apply).
Best for: People who don’t want hard inquiries on their credit report.
5. OppLoans
- Minimum credit score: None (but high APR)
- Loan amounts: $500 – $4,000
- APR: 59% – 160% (yes, it’s steep)
- Why it’s good: No credit check (approves based on income).
Best for: Last-resort borrowing (only if you can’t get approved elsewhere).
How to Avoid Predatory Lenders
Some companies prey on bad credit borrowers with:
- 400%+ APRs (payday loans)
- Hidden fees
- Automatic rollovers (traps you in debt)
Red flags to watch for:
🚩 No credit check at all (usually means insane interest)
🚩 Upfront fees (real lenders deduct fees from your loan)
🚩 Pressure to sign immediately
Rule of thumb: If the APR is over 36%, run.
How to Get Approved (Even With Bad Credit)
1. Apply With a Co-Signer
A family member with good credit can boost your approval odds and lower your APR.
2. Show Proof of Income
Lenders care more about whether you can pay than your credit score. Provide:
- Pay stubs
- Bank statements
- Tax returns (if self-employed)
3. Start Small
Ask for $1,000 instead of $10,000. Smaller loans are easier to get.
4. Try Credit Unions
Local credit unions often have more flexible approval than big banks.
Alternatives If You Can’t Get a Loan
✔ Payday Alternative Loans (PALs)
- Offered by federal credit unions
- Max $2,000, APR capped at 28%
- Must be a credit union member (usually easy to join)
✔ Borrow From Family/Friends
- No interest, no credit check
- Draw up a contract (avoid misunderstandings)
✔ Side Hustle Cash
- Sell unused items (Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp)
- Gig work (Uber, DoorDash, TaskRabbit)
✔ Title Loans (Only If Desperate)
- Use your car title as collateral
- Risky (lose your car if you can’t pay)
Bottom Line
Yes, you can get a personal loan with bad credit—but shop carefully. Stick with reputable lenders (like the 5 above), avoid payday traps, and only borrow what you can repay.
Next steps:
- Check your credit score (free on Credit Karma)
- Pre-qualify with 2-3 lenders (soft checks don’t hurt your score)
- Compare offers—don’t just take the first one