Understanding the Risks and Rewards of Personal Loans
By Personal loans are a popular way to borrow money for a variety of purposes, from financing a large purchase to covering emergency expenses.[0] These loans are generally unsecured, meaning no collateral is needed, and can range from $1,000 to $50,000.[1] Most lenders have terms of two to seven years, with fixed monthly payments.[2]
The interest rate for personal loans can vary from 6% to 36%, depending on your credit score and other considerations.[3] It’s important to compare offers from multiple lenders to ensure you get the lowest rate and best terms.[3] Most lenders offer prequalification with a soft credit inquiry, which doesn’t impact your credit score.[4]
The amount you can borrow and the rate you’re offered depend on your credit score and income.[5] Lenders prefer sanctioning personal loans to applicants whose total ongoing loan repayment obligations, including the EMI of the proposed loan, are within 50% to 55% of their total monthly income.[6]
Defaulting on a personal loan can lead to serious consequences, including a drop in your credit score, limited ability to access credit in the future and facing legal action.[5] That said, there are strategies to increase your chances of approval and secure the best terms and interest rates for your situation.[0]
For instance, it is wise to start your personal loan shopping journey with lenders that disclose an income close to yours if your income is on the middle to low side.[7] Additionally, you can take advantage of prequalification with a soft credit check and compare APRs from multiple lenders.[4]
When it comes to personal loans, it is important to understand the risks and rewards associated with them. Taking the time to research different lenders, compare interest rates and terms, and determine how much you can afford to borrow will help ensure you make the most informed and financially sound decision.
0. “Boost Your Chances Of Getting Approved For A Personal Loan” Bankrate.com, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.bankrate.com/loans/personal-loans/boost-chances-of-personal-loan-approval/
1. “Unlock Financing Options for Your Business Through Personal Loans” StartupGuys.net, 6 Feb. 2023, https://www.startupguys.net/unlock-financing-options-through-personal-loans
2. “What I Learned About Personal Loans — After Getting Rejected for One” Richmond Times-Dispatch, 16 Feb. 2023, https://richmond.com/business/investment/personal-finance/what-i-learned-about-personal-loans-after-getting-rejected-for-one/article_985fb011-96a9-5b07-ba18-c164d8c50ed2.html
3. “How to boost your chances of getting approved for a personal loan” Yahoo! Voices, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.yahoo.com/now/boost-chances-getting-approved-personal-223214652.html
4. “What Personal Loan Term Length Should You Choose?” msnNOW, 10 Feb. 2023, https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/what-personal-loan-term-length-should-you-choose/ar-AA17kWNR
5. “Various Things to Do If You Need to Borrow Money” StartupGuys.net, 10 Feb. 2023, https://www.startupguys.net/need-to-borrow-money
6. “Should you opt for transfer of personal loan balance? | Mint” Mint, 15 Feb. 2023, https://www.livemint.com/money/personal-finance/should-you-opt-for-transfer-of-personal-loan-balance-11676481261095.html
7. “How to get approved for a personal loan” msnNOW, 13 Feb. 2023, https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/how-to-get-approved-for-a-personal-loan/ar-AA17rG61
