Best Personal Loans in Allentown (PA)
We have found 123 personal loans to apply for in Allentown, PA. Add more criteria to compare personal loans and find the best one for you.
TOP 5 banks offering personal loans in Allentown
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How to Choose the Ideal Personal Loan in Allentown, Pennsylvania?
When it comes to managing budget gaps and improving financial flexibility, personal loans can be a valuable resource if utilized wisely. It's essential to choose a loan that suits your unique financial circumstances. To assist you in making an informed decision, here are some strategies for comparing and selecting the ideal personal loan in Allentown.
Consider Annual Percentage Rates (APR)
When assessing different loan options, it's vital to take into account the Annual Percentage Rate (APR). This factor provides a comprehensive view of the total loan cost, encompassing both the interest rate and associated fees. By comparing APRs, you can identify which loan will be more expensive in the long run. In Allentown, APRs range from 4.49% to 36%.
Evaluate Loan Amounts
Research loan amount options to find lenders that offer the required funds. In Allentown, loans are available from $100 to $500,000. Look for lenders that allow partial withdrawals and interest payments solely on the utilized amount. This flexibility suits projects with varying financial needs, such as home renovations or car repairs.
Assess Monthly Payments
Ensure that the monthly payment fits comfortably within your budget. It's important to meet your regular financial obligations while repaying the loan amount and interest.
Understand Credit Requirements
While lenders generally prefer borrowers with credit scores in the good to excellent range (around 670 or higher), it's worth noting that some lenders do consider individuals with poor to fair credit. Although having a high credit score doesn't guarantee lower interest rates, it does enhance the likelihood of loan approval. In Allentown, the minimum acceptable credit score is considered Poor (ranging from 300 to 579). It's advisable to focus your search on lenders who offer loan terms that are favorable based on your specific credit score.
Consider Collateral
Personal loans are typically unsecured, requiring no collateral. Secured loans often come with lower interest rates due to reduced risk for the lender. Unsecured loans typically have higher interest rates. If you wish to avoid high interest rates, consider a secured personal loan.
Evaluate Origination Fees
In addition to interest payments, it is important to consider the loan origination fees charged by most lenders. These fees, calculated as a percentage of the total loan amount, cover the cost of processing the loan. While the average loan origination fee is typically between 0.5 and 1%, specific amounts can vary from lender to lender. Choosing a personal loan with a lower origination fee can result in significant savings in the long run.
Compare and choose the best personal loan in Allentown
This comprehensive comparison helps select a loan with optimal terms for your financial situation:
Lender | APR | Loan Amount | Loan term | Origination Fee | Score Required | Apply |
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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 |
Tips to Increase Your Personal Loan Approval Odds in Allentown, Pennsylvania
To enhance your chances of personal loan approval in Allentown, follow these steps:
- Enhance Your Credit. Work on improving your credit score to increase your approval odds. While the minimum credit score requirement in Allentown is Poor (300 - 579), having a higher credit score improves your chances. Make timely debt payments, maintain low credit utilization, minimize new credit applications, and address any errors in your credit report.
- Increase Your Income. Lenders evaluate your debt-to-income ratio during the approval process. Boosting your income helps improve this ratio and increases your approval chances. Explore opportunities for salary increases or consider part-time jobs to supplement your earnings.
- Avoid New Debt. Refrain from taking on new debt while applying for a personal loan. Lenders view existing debt as a risk factor, which could hinder approval. Focus on paying off outstanding debts and avoid accumulating new ones. A lower debt burden demonstrates your ability to repay the personal loan.
- Set Realistic Loan Amounts. Lenders are cautious when approving large loan amounts due to increased risk. In Allentown, the maximum loan amount available is $500,000, but securing approval for this amount is challenging. Requesting smaller loan amounts improves your chances of approval. Determine the precise amount you need and apply for the minimum required sum. In Allentown, the minimum loan amount offered is $100.
- Consider Joint Applicants. Explore the possibility of applying with a joint applicant or co-signer. Lenders evaluate the credit scores and incomes of both applicants in a joint application. Having a reliable joint applicant or co-signer strengthens your financial profile during the loan approval process.
Conclusion
By implementing the provided strategies and taking proactive steps, you can increase your chances of being approved for a personal loan in Allentown. Remember to borrow responsibly and choose a loan that suits your needs.