Best Personal Loans in Little Rock (AR)
We have found 116 personal loans to apply for in Little Rock, AR. Add more criteria to compare personal loans and find the best one for you.
TOP 5 banks offering personal loans in Little Rock
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How to choose the best personal loan in Little Rock, (AR)?
Personal loans can be a helpful tool for managing your finances, providing flexibility and improving your financial health. When selecting a personal loan in Little Rock, Arkansas, it's essential to find one that suits your financial needs. Here are some strategies for comparing and choosing the right personal loan in the current market.
Annual Percentage Rates
One of the crucial aspects to consider is the annual percentage rate (APR). Instead of solely focusing on the interest rate, the APR provides a more accurate representation of the overall cost of the loan, including fees. By comparing APRs, you can determine which loan will be more expensive in the long run.
In Little Rock, the APR ranges from 4.49% to 36%.
Loan Amount
If you're uncertain about the exact amount you need, researching loan amount options is beneficial. Look for lenders that offer a wide range of loan amounts, including the option to withdraw funds in parts. This flexibility is particularly useful for projects where the required funds may vary over time, such as home renovations or car repairs.
Monthly Payments
Ensure that the monthly payment fits comfortably within your budget. It's crucial to be able to cover your general expenses while also repaying the loan and interest.
Credit Requirements
While most lenders prefer borrowers with good to excellent credit scores (670 or higher), some lenders accept those with poor to fair credit. Although a higher credit score doesn't guarantee a lower interest rate, it increases your chances of approval. In Little Rock (AR), the lowest acceptable credit score is Poor (300 - 579). Tailor your search to lenders that consider your credit score to obtain the best loan terms possible.
Collateral
Most personal loans are unsecured and don't require collateral. However, some loans may require collateral, which typically results in lower interest rates due to reduced risk for the lender. If you wish to avoid high interest rates (which can reach 36% in Little Rock), consider a secured personal loan.
Origination Fee
Many lenders charge origination fees in addition to interest charges. These fees are usually a percentage of the total loan amount and can vary between lenders. Choosing a personal loan with low origination fees can save you money in the long run.
Compare and Choose the Best Personal Loan in Little Rock (AR)
To simplify your research and select a loan with optimal terms for your financial situation, compare all available loan offers side by side. The table below outlines the important characteristics of various personal loans:
Lender | APR | Loan Amount | Loan term | Origination Fee | Score Required | Apply |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LightStream | 6.49 - 21.99% | $5,000 - $100,000 | 2 - 6 years | No origination fee. | From Fair (580-669) to Fair (580-669) | Check rates On partner's site |
Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 7.24 - 25.24% | $3,500 - $40,000 | 3 - 6 years | No origination fee. | From Fair (580-669) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Upstart | 5.6 - 35.99% | $1,000 - $50,000 | 3 - 5 years | 10% | From Poor (300-579) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Payoff® | 8.99 - 29.99% | $5,000 - $40,000 | 2 - 5 years | 5% | From Good (670-739) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
LendingClub | 8.3 - 36% | $1,000 - $40,000 | 3 - 5 years | 3 - 6% | From Poor (300-579) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
SoFi | 8.24 - 23.68% | $5,000 - $100,000 | 2 - 7 years | No origination fee. | From Good (670-739) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Avant | 9.95 - 35.95% | $2,000 - $35,000 | 1 - 5 years | 4.75% | From Poor (300-579) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Prosper | 7.95 - 35.99% | $2,000 - $40,000 | 3 - 5 years | 2.41 - 5% | From Fair (580-669) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Best Egg | 7.99 - 35.99% | $2,000 - $50,000 | 3 - 5 years | 0.99 - 8.99% | From Good (670-739) to Good (670-739) | Check rates On partner's site |
Credible | 5.4 - 35.99% | $600 - $100,000 | 1 - 7 years | Depends on the lender | From Good (670-739) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On Credible.com |
We have added these specific characteristics to the table as we consider them the most important when comparing personal loans.
Tips for Increasing Personal Loan Approval Odds in Little Rock (AR)
If you're considering a personal loan in Little Rock, it's important to take steps to maximize your chances of approval. Here are five tips to increase your personal loan approval odds:
- Get Your Credit in Shape. Improving your credit score is the best way to enhance your loan approval odds. While the minimum credit score requirement in Little Rock is Poor (300 - 579), having a higher credit score increases your chances of approval.
- Increase Your Income. Lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio when assessing your application. Increasing your income improves this ratio and boosts your chances of approval. Request a raise at your job or explore part-time job opportunities to supplement your income.
- Avoid New Debt. While searching for a personal loan, avoid taking on additional debt. Lenders perceive debt as a risk, and any outstanding debts decrease your approval odds. Prioritize paying off existing debts and refrain from acquiring new ones.
- Be Realistic About Loan Amounts. Lenders are generally reluctant to provide large loan amounts due to increased risk. While the maximum amount available in Little Rock is $500,000, obtaining such a sum can be challenging. Aim for smaller loan amounts instead. Determine the precise amount you require and request the minimum necessary. The minimum loan amount offered by lenders in Little Rock is $100.
- Consider a Joint Applicant. Finding a joint applicant can increase your chances of approval. Lenders assess both credit scores and incomes when you apply with a joint applicant. Alternatively, you can seek a co-signer who agrees to pay the loan if you default. Ensure you trust your joint applicant or co-signer, as your finances will be interconnected.
Conclusion
Obtaining a personal loan may sometimes be necessary, so it's crucial to prepare in advance. By taking action today, you can maximize your odds of approval. Focus on improving your credit score, increasing your income, managing existing debts, being realistic about loan amounts, and exploring joint applicants or co-signers. These steps will increase your chances of being approved for a personal loan in Little Rock.