Best Personal Loans in Illinois
We have found 115 personal loans in Illinois. Compare and choose the best loan for your purpose.
TOP 5 banks offering personal loans in Illinois
- Bank name
- Total Assets
- Branches
How to choose the best personal loan in Illinois?
When it comes to personal loans, they can serve as a valuable tool for addressing financial gaps, enhancing flexibility, and improving your overall financial well-being. Therefore, it is essential to find a loan that suits your specific financial needs. To choose the best personal loan in Illinois, consider the following strategies:
- Annual Percentage Rates (APR). Take into account the Annual Percentage Rates (APR), which include both the interest rate and fees associated with the loan. Comparing APRs instead of solely focusing on interest rates provides a more accurate understanding of the total cost over time. In Illinois, APRs range from 4.49% to 36%.
- Evaluate Loan Amount Options. Research different loan amount options and select a lender that offers a suitable range for your needs. In Illinois, personal loans are available from $100 to $500,000. Opting for a lender that allows partial loan withdrawals, where interest is charged only on the amount utilized, can be advantageous for projects with fluctuating funding requirements, such as home renovations or car repairs.
- Assess Monthly Payments. Ensure that the monthly payment amount comfortably fits within your budget. It is crucial to be able to meet other financial obligations while repaying the loan and covering the interest.
- Review Credit Requirements. While most lenders prefer borrowers with good to excellent credit scores (670 or higher), some lenders accept individuals with poor to fair credit. It's important to note that having a higher credit score increases your chances of approval, although it does not guarantee a lower interest rate. In Illinois, the minimum acceptable credit score is Poor (300 - 579). Tailor your search based on your credit score to secure the best loan terms.
- Consider Collateral. While personal loans are typically unsecured, meaning they do not require collateral, some loans may require collateral. Secured loans often come with lower interest rates due to reduced risk for the lender. If you are concerned about high interest rates (which can reach up to 36% in Illinois), considering a secured personal loan might be worth exploring.
- Evaluate Origination Fees. Many lenders charge origination or processing fees in addition to interest. These fees, usually a percentage of the total loan amount, can vary between lenders. Opting for a personal loan with low processing fees can save you money in the long run.
Comparing and selecting the best personal loan in Illinois
To assist in your decision-making process, compare and evaluate different personal loan offers available in Illinois. The provided table includes key loan characteristics to help you make an informed choice.
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 |
OneMain Financial | 18 - 35.99% | $1,500 - $20,000 | 2 - 5 years | $25 - $500 | From Poor (300-579) to Excellent (740-799) | Check rates On partner's site |
Increasing Personal Loan Approval Odds in Illinois
To maximize your chances of obtaining a personal loan in Illinois, consider the following steps:
- Get Your Credit in Shape. Improving your credit score is one of the most effective ways to increase your approval odds. While the minimum credit score requirements in Illinois can be as low as Poor (300 - 579), having a higher score improves the likelihood of approval. Focus on making timely debt payments, maintaining a low credit utilization ratio, limiting applications for new credit, and rectifying any errors on your credit report.
- Increase Your Income. Lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio during the approval process. Increasing your income can enhance your odds of approval. Explore opportunities such as negotiating a raise at your current job or taking on a part-time job to supplement your earnings.
- Avoid Accumulating New Debt. While applying for a personal loan, try to avoid acquiring additional debt. Lenders perceive higher debt levels as a risk factor, which can negatively impact your approval chances. Focus on paying off existing debts to reduce your overall debt burden.
- Be Realistic About the Loan Amount. Requesting a smaller loan amount increases your approval chances, as it poses less risk to lenders. Determine the precise amount you need and ask for the minimum loan amount offered by lenders in Illinois (starting from $100).
- Consider Joint Applicants. Applying with a joint applicant allows lenders to consider both credit scores and incomes. Alternatively, you can seek a co-signer who agrees to pay off the loan in case of default. Ensure that you can rely on the joint applicant or co-signer, as your finances will be interconnected.
Conclusion
In conclusion, by preparing in advance and implementing these measures, you can increase your chances of obtaining a personal loan in Illinois.