What is a Personal Loan and How Does it Work

What is a personal loan?

A personal loan is an unsecured loan, paid back in equal monthly payments with a fixed interest rate. Unsecured personal loans don’t require collateral and are generally used to consolidate debts, repay tax debts, cover necessary home repairs, moving expenses, wedding costs, and other large one-time expenses.

How do I qualify for a personal loan?

The minimum eligibility requirements to be pre-approved for a personal loan are: (1) be a U.S. Citizen or a resident of the U.S. or its territories, (2) be at least 18 years old, (3) have a checking account, (4) have a veritable, steady source of income.

What is the difference between a secured and unsecured personal loan?

A secured loan requires collateral for approval. This means that the lender will secure an asset (a car, home, etc.) to take in case the borrower defaults on the loan. An unsecured loan doesn’t require collateral.

How much and for how long can I borrow?

Generally, an unsecured personal loan is between $5,000 and $15,000. The repayment terms for personal loans are typically up to 60 months.

How long does the loan request process take?

A loan request may take a few minutes to process once you have submitted your application.

When will I receive my funds after my loan is approved?

Once you have signed the loan agreement, your funds could be available as soon as the next business day. The actual timeframe may vary depending on the lender’s deposit process.

I already have a loan, can I get another?

Depending on several factors, you might be able to get another loan. You’ll have to apply again for another personal loan online.

Personal Loan Application

How do I apply for a personal loan?

Applying for a personal loan online is easy. Step 1. Fill out the loan application (selecting a loan amount, and providing basic personal information, along with the required documentation); Step 2. Submit the application and get approved.

Does it cost anything to apply for a personal loan?

There is no cost associated with applying for personal loans online, whether you are approved or not.

What documents are needed to apply for a personal loan?

You’ll need to submit some documents which help lenders authenticate your identity and determine your financial stability. These documents typically include: (1) a valid form of I.D.; (2) proof of income (bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns); (3) proof of address.

Credit Score and Personal Loan

Will my credit score be affected if I apply for a personal loan?

When you apply for a loan, lenders will begin with a soft pull of your credit score. Soft credit pulls don’t affect your score. Later on, during the loan approval process, lenders may do a hard pull of your credit history for further detail. Hard credit pulls can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.

If my credit score is less-than-excellent, can I get a personal loan?

Yes, personal loans for bad credit are available from certain lenders at 1F Cash Advance.

Personal Loan Repayment

How and when do I repay the personal loan?

Your lender establishes the payment plan. Generally, they are set up to be on a monthly basis. Your repayment will be accessible through the online system that your lender provides. Additionally, some lenders may accept your payment by phone. Electronic fund transfers are available with all our lenders. You can set up the specific date on which your payment will be withdrawn from your bank account automatically.

What happens if I can’t repay my personal loan?

If you have insufficient funds to repay your loan, you will be assessed additional fees. Also, missed payments can be reported to the credit agencies, which can negatively impact your credit score.

Are there penalties if I pay back my personal loan earlier?

Some lenders may collect a prepayment penalty fee if you pay back your loan earlier. When you are reviewing the online loan offers from lenders, check to see if they charge prepayment penalties.