How to Get an $800 Loan Online

Loan Options to Get $800 Fast

If you need $800 quickly, the fastest option depends on what’s available in your state, how soon you can repay, and what you can qualify for based on income and banking history. Below are the main borrowing options: 

Payday Loans

A payday loan is a short-term loan that usually must be repaid in a single lump-sum payment by your next payday. These loans are typically issued in amounts ranging from $100 to $1,000, which means an $800 payday loan may not be available everywhere, as some states and individual lenders set lower borrowing limits.

The main advantage of this option is fast access to funds and minimal credit history requirements. However, there is a significant downside: the cost is higher than with traditional loan options. In addition, the short repayment period can put extra pressure on your budget.

Installment Loans

An installment loan allows you to borrow $800 and repay it in equal monthly payments over a period of 2 to 24 months. The total amount depends on the annual percentage rate (APR) and the fees specified in the agreement. No hard credit check is performed.

The advantage of this type of loan is lower monthly payments and easier budgeting. However, over a longer term, you will pay more in total interest, and if the lender considers you a higher-risk borrower, the interest rate may be significantly higher.

Personal Loans

A personal loan is an unsecured loan that can be obtained from a bank, a credit union, or 1F Cash Advance, where borrower requirements are more flexible, and the main focus is on current income. These loans are typically issued for terms of 12-60 months, repaid in equal monthly installments, and carry a fixed interest rate of 6–36% APR.

The advantages include a more predictable repayment schedule and potentially lower interest rates compared to short-term loans, while the drawbacks include more thorough data verification, possible credit profile requirements, and a limited number of lenders willing to offer smaller loan amounts.

Buy Now, Pay Later Apps

BNPL is a way to pay for purchases in installments, not to receive cash. The most common option is the pay-in-4 model: you pay 25% of the purchase price at checkout and repay the remaining amount in 3 payments. 

The main benefit is a smaller upfront payment and a clear repayment schedule. At the same time, there are limitations: BNPL is available only for certain products and retailers, and late payments may incur fees or other consequences, depending on the provider’s terms.

Cash Advance Apps

Cash advance apps allow you to get money early, without waiting for your payday. Repayment happens automatically, either by debiting your bank account on payday or by withholding the amount from your next deposit. Traditional interest does not apply, but there may be a monthly subscription fee or optional “tips.”

This is a convenient and fast way to access money through your phone, but costs can add up due to fees and subscriptions. In addition, automatic withdrawals can lead to overdrafts or failed payments if your account does not have sufficient funds.

Title Loans

A title loan is a loan in which your vehicle serves as collateral. The money usually must be repaid in a single lump-sum payment within 30 days. The average annual percentage rate on these loans exceeds 300%. You continue to drive the car, but the lender temporarily holds a security interest in it.

This type of loan may be approved even with poor credit, but the risks are high. Because of the high cost and short repayment period, any missed payment can lead to vehicle repossession or additional fees that quickly increase the total balance.

Credit Union Loans

Credit unions can be a good option for a small loan. They offer special PAL loans as an alternative to payday loans, with clear rules and limits. Through these programs, you can borrow up to $2,000 for a term of 1 to 12 months and repay the money in installments rather than in a single payment.

These loans are usually less expensive than traditional payday loans. However, there are drawbacks: you must become a member of the credit union, and the approval and funding process takes more time.

Local Charities or Federal Aid

If the $800 need is for essentials like rent, utilities, food, or medical costs, start with 211, which connects you to local assistance programs and community resources. This route is not a loan and can include referrals to nonprofits, local agencies, and emergency help programs.

It can reduce or replace the amount you need to borrow, but assistance is need-based, may require documentation, and is not guaranteed or immediate for every request.

What to Watch Out For

Before you accept any short-term or small-dollar loan, take a minute to review these key details:

• Interest rates. APRs can be high for short-term loans, so check the total amount you’ll need to repay.
• Fees. Ask about origination, late, and returned-payment fees that can increase the loan’s cost.
• Loan terms. Know your due date and whether you must repay in full or in installments.
• Repayment method. Confirm if payments are auto-withdrawn and keep enough balance to avoid overdrafts.
• Lender reputation. Research the lender, read reviews, and look for clear, licensed operations.
• State rules. Availability and limits vary by state, and some payday loans are restricted in certain states.

Tips to Improve Your Financial Situation

If you’re finding yourself relying on loans too often or feeling stuck with debt, it’s a good moment to take a fresh look at your money habits. These practical adjustments can be helpful:

• Create a simple spending plan and track it weekly
• Start a small “rainy day” savings buffer (set aside at least $10–$20 monthly)
• Look for ways to boost your income (extra shifts, side work)
• Reduce non-essentials like subscriptions and impulse buys
• Build a clear debt payoff plan with a realistic timeline