Best for bad credit
Top pick
Best for fair credit
Low fixed rates
Best for no fees + $300 bonus
$300 welcome bonus
Best for debt relief
Debt reliefA closer look at each lender
Upstart uses AI to look beyond your credit score, considering your education and job history to determine your rate. That means you can get approved with a score as low as 300. Loans range from $1,000 to $50,000, and most are funded by the next business day. The application takes a few minutes with an instant decision in most cases. APRs range from 6.20% to 35.99%, and origination fees can be 0% to 12%. If your credit isn’t great but you have a steady income and solid work history, Upstart gives you the best shot at getting approved.
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Upgrade offers loans from $1,000 to $75,000 for debt consolidation, home projects, medical bills, or anything else. They look at more than your credit score, so approval is more accessible if your credit is fair. Loan terms run 2 to 7 years with APRs from 9.99% to 35.99%. There is an origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%, so factor that into the total cost. One standout feature: Upgrade can pay your creditors directly if you’re consolidating debt, which keeps things simple. If you have fair credit and need flexible loan amounts, Upgrade is worth checking your rate.
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SoFi lets you borrow $5,000 to $100,000 with zero fees. No origination fee, no late fees, no prepayment penalties. APRs range from 8.99% to 29.99%, and you could get funded the same day you apply. You’ll need a credit score of at least 650 and $45,000 in annual income to qualify. Right now SoFi is offering a $300 welcome bonus just for taking out a personal loan. They also offer unemployment protection, meaning they’ll pause your payments if you lose your job. If you have good credit and want the lowest total cost, SoFi is the one to beat.
Get $300 Bonus at SoFi →
National Debt Relief doesn’t give you a loan. They negotiate with your creditors to reduce what you owe by 30% to 50%. There are no upfront fees, and you only pay if they successfully settle your debt. Most clients are debt-free within 24 to 48 months. You’ll need at least $10,000 in unsecured debt to qualify. They’re A+ rated with the BBB and have resolved over $5 billion in debt. If you owe more than you can realistically pay back, this is the smarter move before taking on another loan.
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