What is a Signature Loan?
A signature loan, also known as a good faith loan or character loan, is a type of unsecured personal loan provided by banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions. Unlike secured loans, signature loans do not require collateral. Instead, the borrower simply provides their signature and makes a promise to repay the loan. Due to the higher risk involved for lenders, signature loans typically have higher interest rates.
These loans offer flexibility, as borrowers can choose to use the funds for various purposes, such as debt consolidation, emergency expenses, or home renovations. The interest rates are generally fixed and determined based on the borrower's credit history and income. The repayment terms for signature loans typically range from several months to five years.
In comparison to personal loans secured by collateral, such as mortgages, signature loans are more difficult to obtain because they rely solely on the borrower's creditworthiness. Borrowers with a good credit score are more likely to qualify for a signature loan.
It is important to differentiate signature loans from revolving credit. With a signature loan, the funds are transferred to the borrower's account quickly, and once the loan is fully repaid, the account is closed. If the borrower requires additional funds, they would need to apply for a new signature loan. On the other hand, revolving credit involves a lengthier application process, as the lender conducts a more thorough credit history check. Once a borrower repays the debt on a revolving credit line, they can keep the line open and access the available credit as needed.
Major types of signature loans include:
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Standard personal loans. Credit unions and banks offer these unsecured loans, commonly referred to as signature loans. They come with varying interest rates.
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Peer-to-peer loans. Provided by individuals or investors, P2P loans are accessible online or through mobile applications.
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Debt consolidation loans. Used to cover existing debts, these loans can save money if the new loan has a lower interest rate than the current loans.
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Payday loans or check advance loans. Short-term loans for small amounts often have high-interest rates and hidden provisions. It is advisable to avoid this type of unsecured loan.
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Installment loans. These loans involve fixed monthly payments determined by the loan amount, interest rate, and loan duration. Typically offered by money stores and payday lenders.
Features
Signature loans, also known as unsecured personal loans, offer several key features, such as no collateral requirement. Borrowers do not need to provide any collateral to secure the loan. Instead, the lender relies on the borrower's signature and promise to repay.
These loans provide flexibility in the use of funds. Borrowers can allocate the funds as needed. Whether it's consolidating debts, covering emergency expenses, paying medical bills, or financing home renovations, borrowers have the freedom to decide.
Signature loans typically come with higher interest rates. Lenders charge higher rates to compensate for the increased risk associated with providing an unsecured loan.
Approval for a signature loan is based on the borrower's creditworthiness. A good credit score and history are essential factors. They significantly impact eligibility, interest rates, and loan amounts.
Signature loans often come with fixed interest rates. The rate remains consistent throughout the loan term. This allows borrowers to plan and budget for regular payments without worrying about fluctuations.
Repayment terms vary and can range from several months to several years. The exact duration depends on the lender, loan amount, and the borrower's financial profile. Longer terms may result in lower monthly payments but higher overall interest payments.
Borrowers can access the funds from a signature loan quickly. Once approved, the funds are disbursed promptly. This enables borrowers to utilize the loan amount without delay.
Signature loans typically require minimal documentation. Compared to secured loans, the application process is simplified. Lenders still assess the borrower's financial information, income, and credit history.
Successfully repaying a signature loan can positively impact the borrower's credit history. On-time payments and responsible credit management can help improve credit scores and establish a positive credit profile.
Various lenders offer signature loans. Borrowers have the option to compare loan terms from different lenders. This allows them to find the most favorable offer that suits their needs.
Pros and Cons
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The funding process is fast. The lender can transfer the funds to your bank account within a few business days after your application is approved.
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You don't need collateral. Unlike secured loan products, signature loans require only a borrower's signature and co-signer.
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You will likely get a low-interest rate if you have a good credit score.
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The lender of your signature loan may issue a late payment fee, origination fee, and late payment fee. It adds up to the costs of the debt you need to repay.
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Signature loans are only good for short-term borrowing. A long-term signature loan will be expensive and can damage your funds.
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A bad credit score will result in you paying more interest to the lender, up to 30%.
How to get a Signature Loan
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Check your credit score. Review your credit score before applying for a signature loan to assess your creditworthiness.
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Research lenders. Explore different lenders, such as banks, credit unions, and online financial institutions, to find the best options for signature loans.
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Compare interest rates and terms. Compare the interest rates, loan amounts, repayment terms, and any additional fees associated with different lenders. Choose the most favorable terms for your needs.
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Gather necessary documents. Prepare the required documents, which may include identification proof, income verification, bank statements, and personal references.
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Complete the application. Fill out the loan application form provided by the lender. Provide accurate and truthful information.
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Submit the application. Submit your completed application along with the required documents to the lender. Depending on the lender's application process, this can be done online, through email, or in person.
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Wait for approval. The lender will review your application and creditworthiness to determine whether you qualify for the signature loan.
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Receive loan approval and terms. If approved, carefully review the loan approval notice, which will outline the loan amount, interest rate, repayment terms, and any applicable fees.
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Sign the loan agreement. Once you are satisfied with the terms, sign the loan agreement electronically or in person, depending on the lender's requirements.
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Receive loan funds. After signing the loan agreement, the lender will disburse the loan funds to your designated bank account or provide a check, depending on their procedures.
Best places to borrow a loan with bad credit
Upgrade
Upgrade is a prominent online lender that offers personal loans to borrowers with bad credit. They provide loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, making them suitable for various financial needs. The minimum credit score required by Upgrade is relatively low, typically around 580. This makes it accessible to individuals with a less-than-stellar credit history. One notable advantage of Upgrade is its flexible repayment terms, which can extend up to five years. This longer repayment period allows borrowers to manage their monthly payments more effectively. However, it's worth noting that Upgrade charges origination fees ranging from 2.9% to 8%. Additionally, while they do not have any prepayment penalties, borrowers should be aware of the interest rates, which can be relatively high for individuals with bad credit.
Upstart
Upstart is another online lender that specializes in providing loans to borrowers with bad credit. Their loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, allowing borrowers to access the funds they need for various purposes. Upstart utilizes a unique underwriting model that takes into account factors beyond just credit scores, making it more inclusive for individuals with limited credit history or low credit scores. The minimum credit score required by Upstart is typically around 580. One of the significant advantages of Upstart is its soft credit check, which means that applying for a loan does not negatively impact your credit score. Repayment terms offered by Upstart range from three to five years, providing borrowers with flexibility. While they do charge origination fees of up to 8%, it's important to note that they don't impose any prepayment penalties. However, borrowers with bad credit should expect higher interest rates.
LendingPoint
LendingPoint is a bad credit lender that offers personal loans ranging from $2,000 to $36,500. They consider borrowers with credit scores as low as 585, making them accessible to individuals with bad credit. LendingPoint prides itself on providing fast funding, often disbursing funds within one business day. Their repayment terms typically range from two to four years, allowing borrowers to tailor their loan duration according to their needs. It's important to note that LendingPoint does charge origination fees that can be up to 6%. They also have a slightly higher interest rate compared to traditional lenders, which is to be expected when borrowing with bad credit. However, they do not impose any prepayment penalties, enabling borrowers to pay off their loans early if they desire.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is an online lender that specializes in bad credit loans, offering loan amounts ranging from $500 to $15,000. Their minimum credit score requirement is relatively low, typically around 550, making them accessible to borrowers with poor credit. Universal Credit offers repayment terms ranging from six months to five years, allowing borrowers to choose a duration that aligns with their financial situation. While they charge origination fees, the amount may vary based on the borrower's creditworthiness. One notable advantage of Universal Credit is its willingness to consider applicants who have previously filed for bankruptcy. However, borrowers should be aware that the interest rates associated with bad credit loans from Universal Credit may be higher compared to traditional lenders.
OneMain Financial
OneMain Financial is a well-established lender that specializes in bad credit loans. They offer loan amounts ranging from $1,500 to $20,000, making them suitable for various financial needs. OneMain Financial requires a minimum credit score of 600, slightly higher than some of the other lenders in this category. However, they have a reputation for considering other factors beyond credit scores when evaluating loan applications. OneMain Financial provides repayment terms that range from two to five years, allowing borrowers to select a term that fits their budget. It's important to note that OneMain Financial charges origination fees, which can vary depending on your residence state. While they do not disclose their interest rates upfront, borrowers with bad credit should expect higher rates.
Avant
Avant is an online lender that specializes in offering personal loans to individuals with bad credit. They provide loan amounts ranging from $2,000 to $35,000, catering to various financial needs. Avant has a minimum credit score requirement of 580, making them accessible to borrowers with less-than-ideal credit histories. Repayment terms offered by Avant typically range from two to five years, giving borrowers flexibility in managing their monthly payments. While Avant charges origination fees up to 4.75%, they do not impose any prepayment penalties. It's important to note that Avant's interest rates can be relatively high for borrowers with bad credit. However, they provide a transparent prequalification process that allows borrowers to check their potential loan offers without affecting their credit scores.
Requirements and Conditions
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Creditworthiness. To determine eligibility, lenders assess your creditworthiness, including your credit report, through a hard or a soft credit check.
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Income Verification. Provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, to demonstrate your ability to repay.
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Identification. Valid identification, like a driver's license or passport, is typically required for identity verification.
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Age. Meet the lender's legal age requirement, usually 18 years or older.
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Residency. Proof of residency, such as utility bills or a lease agreement, may be needed.
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Employment History. Your employment history helps lenders evaluate stability and repayment ability.
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Loan Amount. The maximum loan amount depends on the lender's policies and your creditworthiness.
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Interest Rates. Signature loans have varying interest rates based on factors like credit score, loan amount, and repayment term.
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Repayment Terms. Lenders specify the duration and schedule for loan repayments, such as monthly or bi-weekly.
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Fees. Be aware of any associated fees, such as origination fees or prepayment penalties.
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Loan Purpose. Signature loans allow funds to be used for various purposes, such as debt consolidation or home improvements.
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Loan Agreement. Once approved, you'll sign a loan agreement outlining the terms, conditions, and responsibilities.
Ways to Receive the Money
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Direct Deposit. The loan amount can be deposited directly into your bank account. This convenient and secure method allows you to access the funds immediately.
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Paper Check. Some lenders may provide a paper check for the loan amount. You can deposit or cash the check at your bank or a check-cashing facility.
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Wire Transfer. In certain cases, lenders may offer the option of a wire transfer. This allows for a quick transfer of funds directly to your bank account.
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Prepaid Debit Card. Lenders may provide a prepaid debit card loaded with the loan amount. You can use this card for purchases or cash withdrawals according to the terms and restrictions.
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Cash Pickup. In some situations, lenders may offer the option to pick up the loan funds in cash from a physical location. This is typically applicable for smaller loan amounts.
Things to Pay Attention to
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Interest Rates. Compare and evaluate the interest rates offered by different lenders. Higher interest rates can significantly impact the overall cost of the loan.
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Loan Terms. Review the repayment terms, including the duration of the loan and the frequency of payments. Ensure they align with your financial situation and repayment capabilities.
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Fees and Charges. Be aware of any associated fees, such as origination fees, late payment fees, or prepayment penalties. Understand the potential impact on the total cost of the loan.
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Credit Requirements. Understand the credit score and history requirements set by the lender. A lower credit score may result in higher interest rates or possible loan denial.
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Loan Amount. Determine the maximum loan amount you can qualify for and assess whether it meets your financial needs. Borrowing more than necessary can lead to increased debt and interest costs.
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Repayment Ability. Carefully evaluate your financial situation and ensure you can comfortably afford the loan payments. Consider your income, expenses, and any potential changes that may affect your ability to repay.
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Loan Purpose. Clarify the purpose of the loan and ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Avoid using the loan for unnecessary expenses or non-essential purchases.
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Loan Agreement: Thoroughly review the loan agreement, including all terms, conditions, and obligations. Seek clarification on any unclear or confusing sections before signing.
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Lender's Reputation. Research the lender's reputation and customer reviews. Choose a reputable and trustworthy lender with a history of reliable service.
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Impact on Credit Score. Understand how taking out a signature loan may affect your credit score. Timely payments can help build a positive credit history, while late payments can have a negative impact.
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The true cost of the loan. The total cost of your signature loan comprises the interest you will pay to the lender through the loan period, the origination fee, and other fees if you fail to meet the agreement requirements. You can calculate the interest rate of a particular lender according to the period you get the loan for. For instance, if you get a signature loan of $5,000 for 15 months and the interest rate is 10%, you will pay the lender $339.79. Add an origination fee of 3%, and you owe $489.79.
How to Repay a Signature Loan
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Review Loan Agreement. Familiarize yourself with the repayment terms outlined in your loan agreement. Note the due dates, payment amounts, and any additional instructions.
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Set Up Payment Method. Determine the most convenient payment method for you. Options may include automatic bank transfers, online bill pay, or manual payments through the lender's website or app.
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Calculate Monthly Payments. Calculate the amount due for each monthly payment based on the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment term. Ensure you can comfortably afford these payments within your budget.
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Set Reminders. Set up reminders through a calendar, phone alerts, or automatic reminders from your banking app. This will help you remember payment due dates and avoid late fees.
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Make Timely Payments. Ensure you make your payments on time, adhering to the schedule specified in the loan agreement. Timely payments will help you avoid late fees and maintain a positive credit history.
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Consider Automatic Payments. Set up automatic payments through your bank or the lender. This can help ensure payments are made on time without the risk of forgetting or missing due dates.
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Monitor Account Balances. Keep track of your bank account balance to ensure you have sufficient funds available for each payment. Consider setting up a separate savings account dedicated to loan repayments for better budgeting.
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Review Statements. Regularly review your loan statements provided by the lender. Verify that payments are being applied correctly and check for any discrepancies or errors.
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Extra Payments. If possible, consider making extra payments towards the loan principal to pay off the loan faster and reduce overall interest costs. Check with your lender for any prepayment penalties or restrictions.
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Completion of Payments. Once you have made all scheduled payments, confirm with the lender that the loan is fully paid off. Retain all relevant documentation as proof of loan repayment.
Alternatives
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Secured Loan. Unlike signature loans, secured loans require collateral, such as a vehicle or property, to secure the loan. Secured loans often offer lower interest rates and higher loan amounts.
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Credit Cards. Credit cards provide a revolving line of credit that you can use for purchases and repay over time. They offer flexibility, convenience, and the potential to earn rewards. However, managing credit card debt responsibly is important to avoid high-interest charges.
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Home Equity Loans/HELOC. If you own a home, you may consider leveraging your home equity through a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). These loans use your property as collateral, often providing access to larger loan amounts and lower interest rates.
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Payday Alternative Loans (PALs). Offered by some credit unions, PALs are short-term loans designed to provide an alternative to payday loans. They typically have lower interest rates and more favorable terms.
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Personal Lines of Credit. Like credit cards, personal lines of credit provide you with a predetermined credit limit you can borrow against as needed. Interest is charged only on the amount borrowed.
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Credit Builder Loans. These loans are designed specifically to help individuals build or improve their credit. The loan funds are typically held in a separate account, and you make payments towards the loan while building your credit history.
Editorial Opinion
Signature loans, also known as unsecured personal loans, can be both a blessing and a potential financial burden. On the one hand, they offer convenience, flexibility, and quick access to funds without requiring collateral. On the other hand, their higher interest rates and potential for misuse can lead to financial strain if not approached with caution.
One of the significant advantages of signature loans is their accessibility. They provide a lifeline for individuals who may not have assets to pledge as collateral. Signature loans offer the freedom to use the funds for various purposes, such as debt consolidation, home renovations, or emergency expenses. Their straightforward application process and quick approval can be appealing to those in urgent need of funds.
However, it is crucial to tread carefully when considering a signature loan. The higher interest rates associated with these loans mean that borrowers end up paying more over the loan term. Additionally, lenders take on greater risks without collateral to secure the loan. This risk is reflected in the interest rates, making it essential for borrowers to evaluate their repayment capabilities and budget accordingly thoroughly.
Furthermore, signature loans can tempt individuals to take on more debt than necessary or to use the funds irresponsibly. It is essential to exercise discipline and consider the purpose and necessity of the loan before proceeding. Careful planning, budgeting, and comparing different loan options can help borrowers make informed decisions and minimize potential financial pitfalls.
Important
How to Choose a Lender
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Make sure to confirm whether the lender is licensed to operate in your state. You can verify this information with your state regulator or attorney general.
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Check if the lender is a member of a reputable association, such as the Community Financial Services Association of America. Membership in such organizations may provide an extra level of reliability.
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Carefully review all the terms and conditions of your payday loan contract.
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Thoroughly examine the interest rates on payday loans and ensure that your contract includes a detailed breakdown of the total cost of the loan.
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Take advantage of your right of rescission. Usually, you can rescind the loan within three days after signing the agreement. Alternatively, there is typically a "cooling-off" period, which allows you several days to thoroughly review the contract before making an informed decision to enter into a consumer loan agreement based on the terms specified by the lender.
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Choosing a payday lender is a significant decision that demands careful consideration and a good understanding of how such organizations operate.