Best Personal Loans in Columbia (MO)
We have found 114 personal loans to apply for in Columbia, MO. Add more criteria to compare personal loans and find the best one for you.
TOP 5 banks offering personal loans in Columbia
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How to Choose the Ideal Personal Loan in Columbia, Missouri?
Personal loans can be a helpful tool to fill in any gaps in your budget. It is important to consider the following strategies when comparing and choosing the best personal loan in Columbia, Missouri.
Annual Percentage Rates (APR)
Considering the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is of utmost importance, as it provides a comprehensive view of the total loan cost, encompassing both the interest rate and associated fees. By comparing APRs rather than solely focusing on interest rates, you can make a more informed decision regarding the long-term expenses associated with each loan option. In Columbia, typical APR ranges from 4.49% to 36%.
Loan Amounts
It is important to thoroughly research loan amount options and choose a lender that offers a loan amount suitable for your specific needs. In Columbia, personal loans are available in a range from $100 to $500,000. Additionally, consider selecting a lender that provides the option to withdraw funds in parts, allowing you to only pay interest on the amount utilized. This flexibility proves advantageous for projects where the required funds may vary, such as home renovations or car repairs.
Monthly Payments
Ensure that the monthly payment fits comfortably within your budget. It's crucial to balance your regular expenses while repaying the loan and covering the interest.
Credit Requirements
When it comes to credit requirements, many lenders prefer borrowers with good to excellent credit scores (670 or higher). However, there are lenders who are willing to consider individuals with poor to fair credit. It's important to note that while a higher credit score increases your chances of approval, it doesn't guarantee lower interest rates. In Columbia, the minimum acceptable credit score is poor (300 - 579).
Collateral Requirements
Personal loans are typically unsecured and don't require collateral. However, some loans may require collateral, which can result in lower interest rates due to reduced risk for the lender. If you want to avoid high interest rates (which can reach up to 36% in Columbia), consider a secured personal loan as an option.
Origination Fees
Many lenders charge processing fees, known as loan origination fees, in addition to interest. Typically, the origination fee is a percentage of the total loan amount, ranging from 0.5% to 1%. Choosing a personal loan with low processing fees can lead to long-term savings.
Compare and choose the best personal loan in Columbia
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 |
By using this table, you can easily compare the key features of personal loans offered by different lenders.
5 Tips for Maximizing Personal Loan Approval Odds in Columbia, Missouri
- Improve Your Credit. Improving your credit score is crucial for increasing your chances of loan approval. While the minimum credit score requirement in Columbia is poor (300 - 579), having a higher credit score significantly enhances your likelihood of approval. Take active steps to improve your credit score, such as making timely payments, reducing credit utilization, and addressing any errors on your credit report. By doing so, you can enhance your overall creditworthiness and improve your eligibility for personal loans in Columbia.
- Increase Your Income. Lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio when evaluating approval. Increasing your income can improve your odds. While it may not be easy, explore options such as asking for a raise at your current job or taking on a part-time job to supplement your income. Any increase in income lowers your debt-to-income ratio and enhances your chances of loan approval.
- Avoid New Debt. Refrain from taking on additional debt while applying for a personal loan. Lenders view existing debt as a risk factor that can negatively impact your approval odds. Focus on paying off your existing debts and avoid acquiring new ones. Minimizing your debt load makes it easier to secure a personal loan.
- Request Realistic Loan Amounts. Requesting a higher loan amount increases the lender's risk and may make approval more challenging. While the maximum loan amount available in Columbia is $500,000, obtaining such a large amount can be difficult. Lenders are more likely to approve smaller loan amounts with lower risk. Determine the exact amount you need and request the minimum necessary to meet your requirements. In Columbia, the minimum loan amount offered is $100.
- Consider a Joint Applicant. If possible, consider finding a joint applicant or co-signer when applying for a personal loan. Having a joint applicant or co-signer can positively impact your chances of loan approval, as lenders take into account both credit scores and incomes. A co-signer is someone who agrees to take responsibility for repaying the loan if you are unable to do so. However, it's crucial to ensure that you can rely on the joint applicant or co-signer, as your financial situations will become interconnected.
Conclusion
In general, when applying for a personal loan in Columbia, it is crucial to take proactive steps to increase your chances of approval and prevent potential loan denials. By following recommended steps, you can greatly increase your chances of getting approved for the loan you are seeking.