Best Personal Loans in the USA for Bad Credit
Best Personal Loans in the USA for Bad Credit (2025 Guide)
If you’re struggling with a low credit score and need a personal loan, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans face financial hurdles every year — from unexpected medical bills to emergency repairs — and finding a reliable loan can be challenging when your credit isn’t perfect.
The good news? Several lenders in the USA specialize in personal loans for bad credit and offer fast, flexible options tailored to your financial situation.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best personal loans in the USA for bad credit in 2025, what to look for, and how to improve your chances of approval.
What Is a Bad Credit Personal Loan?
A bad credit personal loan is a type of unsecured loan designed for borrowers with a credit score below 600. These loans don’t require collateral and are typically used for:
Debt consolidation
Emergency expenses
Medical bills
Car repairs
Moving costs
Even with bad credit, you can still qualify for a loan with the right lender — but expect higher interest rates and stricter terms.
Top Lenders Offering Bad Credit Personal Loans in the USA
1. LendingPoint
Credit Score Requirement: 580+
Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $36,500
APR Range: 9.99% – 35.99%
Funding Time: As fast as the next business day
Why It’s Great: LendingPoint focuses on more than just your credit score and evaluates your income, job history, and financial potential.
2. Upgrade
Credit Score Requirement: 560+
Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000
APR Range: 8.49% – 35.99%
Funding Time: Within 24 hours of approval
Why It’s Great: Upgrade offers flexible terms and the option to directly pay off credit cards to help with debt consolidation.
3. OneMain Financial
Credit Score Requirement: No minimum required
Loan Amounts: $1,500 – $20,000
APR Range: 18.00% – 35.99%
Funding Time: Same-day funding available
Why It’s Great: OneMain has physical branches across the U.S., and they’re known for working with subprime borrowers.
4. Avant
Credit Score Requirement: 580+
Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $35,000
APR Range: 9.95% – 35.99%
Funding Time: Next business day
Why It’s Great: Avant is fast, easy to apply, and offers transparent terms — ideal for borrowers with fair to poor credit.
5. OppLoans
Credit Score Requirement: No minimum
Loan Amounts: $500 – $4,000
APR Range: 59% – 160% (Installment loan)
Funding Time: As soon as the same day
Why It’s Great: While APR is high, OppLoans is more affordable than payday lenders and reports to credit bureaus — helping you rebuild your credit.
Key Features to Look for in a Bad Credit Loan
When choosing a personal loan for bad credit, consider the following:
Soft Credit Check for Prequalification: Avoid hard inquiries until you’re sure you qualify.
No Prepayment Penalty: So you can pay off the loan early and save on interest.
Clear APR and Fee Structure: Watch out for origination fees, late fees, and hidden costs.
Fast Funding: Ideal if you’re in a financial emergency.
Reports to Credit Bureaus: Helps improve your credit score if payments are made on time.
Tips to Get Approved for a Bad Credit Loan
Even if your credit score isn’t great, you can still increase your chances of approval:
Apply for a lower amount – Smaller loans are easier to approve.
Add a co-signer – If possible, apply with someone who has better credit.
Improve your debt-to-income ratio – Pay off small debts if you can.
Use online lenders – Many fintech lenders are more flexible than banks.
Avoid payday loans – High interest and fees can trap you in a cycle of debt.
Final Thoughts: Find the Right Lender for Your Needs
If you have bad credit and need a personal loan in the USA, there are reputable lenders willing to work with you — no scams, no payday traps. The key is to compare offers, read the fine print, and choose a loan that fits your budget.
At Lending Capital, we help connect you to trusted lenders offering fast personal loans even with poor credit. Apply online today and get a decision in minutes — no perfect credit required!