Emergency loans can help you out when you're financially stressed - but some may cost more than others.
Twenty-one percent of Americans surveyed by Empower in 2024 reported having no emergency savings, and 37% said they wouldn't be able to afford a surprise $400 expense. When emergencies happen, financial stress can make a bad situation worse. The best emergency loans can provide quick access to cash during hard times, without the ultra-high interest costs or fees some of these loans are known for.
A personal loan for emergencies may prove the best option, as APRs can be much lower compared to other types of emergency loans, such as title loans, payday loans, some cash advance apps, and credit card advances.
Compare emergency loan rates of September 2024
3.93.9
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
7.80% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
620
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Upstart has one of the lowest available APRs of Credible partner lenders and of all non-partners we reviewed, making it a good choice for well-qualified applicants. However, it's also is one of few lenders that doesn't have a minimum credit score requirement (if you apply on the lender's website), which makes it an option if you have bad credit or no credit history. Upstart may charge an origination fee as high as 12%, but good-credit borrowers may not be charged one at all.
Trustpilot gives Upstart 4.9 stars, which is the highest of all lenders we reviewed.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available nationwide
Min. income
$12,000
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days
Loan uses
Pay off credit cards, consolidate debt, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes
Read full review
44
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
8.99% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$2,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Best Egg is a solid lender for a wide range of borrowers and, notably, scored second for personal loan satisfaction in J.D. Power's Consumer Lending Study. It offers competitive rates, reasonable loan terms and amounts, and personal loans for fair credit. You'll need a FICO score of at least 600 to qualify, but the lower your score, the higher your APR may be. The APR includes the interest rate and origination fees, which range from 0.99% to 9.99% with Best Egg.
Note that if you successfully prequalify with Best Egg, you may be more likely to be approved for the loan relative to other lenders you prequalify with. Based on Credible data, borrowers who chose to apply for a loan with Best Egg were more than twice as likely to be approved (relative to most other Credible partners).
Loan amount
$2,000 to $50,000
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, unsuccessful payment fee, check processing fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WV
Min. income
None
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days after successful verification
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Read full review
3.93.9
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
9.95% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$2,000 to $35,000
Min. Credit Score
550
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Avant personal loans are a good choice for borrowers with bad credit looking for small- to moderate-sized personal loans. Loans are available up to $35,000 and you could get the money as soon as the next business day after approval. Plus, Avant is more likely than some lenders to approve the applications of borrowers who've prequalified with Avant. However, the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%, and its top-range interest rates are among the highest of the lenders we reviewed.
Loan amount
$2,000 to $35,000**
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Min. income
$1,200 monthly
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Repayment terms
2 to 5 years
Read full review
4.54.5
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
9.99% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Upgrade has a suite of features that make it a very attractive lender: competitive interest rates, discounts for direct pay and autopay, as soon as same-day funding, up to seven-year repayment terms, and nationwide availability. Plus, loans are available to fair-credit borrowers, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders.
However, Upgrade does charge an origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Repayment terms
2 to 7 years
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
Autopay and direct pay
Eligibility
Available in all states
Min. income
Does not disclose
Customer service
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
1 business day
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Read full review
4.34.3
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
11.69% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
560
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Universal Credit is one of a handful of lenders that offers personal loans for bad credit. If your FICO credit score is at least 560, you may be eligible for a Universal Credit personal loan. It offers loan amounts up to $50,000, repayment terms up to seven years, and discounts for direct pay and autopay. Funds are available as soon as the next business day after loan approval.
Note that rates and fees can be relatively high — you may pay an origination fee from 5.25% to 9.99%, and APRs start at 11.69%. If you get a loan with a high interest rate, consider refinancing your personal loan at a lower rate once you've improved your credit score.
Loan amount
$1,000 - $50,000
Repayment terms
3, 5, or 7 years
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
Autopay and direct pay
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Min. income
None
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Read full review
3.23.2
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
-
Loan Amounts
$1,000 to $35,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Zable offers relatively small loan amounts — ranging from $1,000 to $35,000 — that can be deposited in your account as soon as the same day you are approved, if it is by the lender's deadline. It’s an option for fair-credit borrowers, with a minimum credit score of 600, as well as those with lower incomes.
Its origination fees range from 5% to 9%, however, and it does not offer discounts, secured loans, nor the option to add a cosigner to your application. Zable also currently does not offer loans in 21 states.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $35,000
Repayment terms
1 to 5 years
Fees
Origination fees (5% to 9%)
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Not available in CO, CT, IN, KS, LA, ME, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NV, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, VT, WV, WI, or WY
Min. income
$1,000 per month
Customer service
Email, phone
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as the same day
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, home improvement, major purchase, car financing
Read full review
3.73.7
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
14.30% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$3,500 to $40,000
Min. Credit Score
640
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
Reach is an option if you have fair credit, especially if you need money fast. According to the company, 90% of Reach personal loans are funded within one day of approval.
It's a good choice for debt consolidation and credit card refinancing, but borrowers with excellent credit may not find the lowest rates with Reach. The company also charges more fees than some of its competitors and doesn't offer direct pay or autopay discounts. If you need a 7-year term loan, you'll need to look elsewhere. Reach personal loans are not available in all states.
Loan amount
$3,500 to $40,000
Fees
Origination Fee, $15 Late Fee, $25 NSF Fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except CO, CT, ME, NV, NH, TN, VT, WV, WY, and all U.S. Territories
Min. income
$1,000 monthly
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
Funds typically deposited into your account in 1 business day13
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing
Read full review
3.93.9
Credible rating
Fixed (APR)
18.00% - 35.99%
Loan Amounts
$1,500 to $20,000
Min. Credit Score
540
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
View Details
Overview
OneMain Financial has multiple options for bad-credit personal loans. There is no minimum credit score required (if you apply directly with OneMain), which means you could get a loan with bad credit (FICO below 580). Plus, cosigners are allowed — a cosigner is someone (ideally, with good credit) who promises to repay the loan if you can't, which can make it easier to qualify or lower your rate. And, secured personal loans are available. You secure a loan with collateral, which may also help you qualify or lower your rate.
Rates are higher than competitors and OneMain charges origination fees as either a flat fee up to $500, or a percentage from 1% to 10% (depending on your state of residence). Note that even if you prequalify for a personal loan with OneMain, getting approved isn't a given.
Loan amount
$1,500 to $20,000
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Min. income
Does not disclose
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Read full review
All APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | LightStream disclosure | SoFi Disclosures | Read more about Rates and Terms
Best emergency loans
Waiting is the worst when you need money now. These emergency loans are all personal loans that can be funded as soon as the same day you apply, or the next day following your application’s approval.
Best for fair credit
Upgrade
4.5
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
9.99 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Pros and cons
Fair credit borrowers eligible
Autopay and direct pay discounts
Can fund in as little as 1 business day
Mobile app
Secured loans available
High maximum origination fee
Cosigners not accepted on home improvement loans
Low J.D. Power ranking
More details
Overview
Upgrade has a suite of features that make it a very attractive lender: competitive interest rates, discounts for direct pay and autopay, as soon as same-day funding, up to seven-year repayment terms, and nationwide availability. Plus, loans are available to fair-credit borrowers, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders.
However, Upgrade does charge an origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)
Repayment terms
2 to 7 years
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
Autopay and direct pay
Eligibility
Available in all states
Min. income
Does not disclose
Customer service
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
1 business day
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other
Best debt consolidation loans for bad credit
Universal Credit
4.3
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
11.69 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
560
Pros and cons
Borrowers with bad credit considered
No minimum income requirement
Autopay and direct pay discounts available
Can fund in one business day
High APRs
Potentially high origination fees
Not available in Iowa
More details
Overview
Universal Credit is one of a handful of lenders that offers personal loans for bad credit. If your FICO credit score is at least 560, you may be eligible for a Universal Credit personal loan. It offers loan amounts up to $50,000, repayment terms up to seven years, and discounts for direct pay and autopay. Funds are available as soon as the next business day after loan approval.
Note that rates and fees can be relatively high — you may pay an origination fee from 5.25% to 9.99%, and APRs start at 11.69%. If you get a loan with a high interest rate, consider refinancing your personal loan at a lower rate once you've improved your credit score.
Loan amount
$1,000 - $50,000
Repayment terms
3, 5, or 7 years
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
Autopay and direct pay
Eligibility
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, IA, SC, WV
Min. income
None
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 business day after acceptance
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
Best for high close rates if pre-approved
Best Egg
4
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
8.99 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$2,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Pros and cons
Secured loans available
Low minimum income requirement
Scored second in J.D. Power's Consumer Lending Satisfaction Study
Funds in 1-3 business days
High close rate on loans through Credible platform
Origination fees
No discounts
Not available in DC, IA, VT, or WV
More details
Overview
Best Egg is a solid lender for a wide range of borrowers and, notably, scored second for personal loan satisfaction in J.D. Power's Consumer Lending Study. It offers competitive rates, reasonable loan terms and amounts, and personal loans for fair credit. You'll need a FICO score of at least 600 to qualify, but the lower your score, the higher your APR may be. The APR includes the interest rate and origination fees, which range from 0.99% to 9.99% with Best Egg.
Note that if you successfully prequalify with Best Egg, you may be more likely to be approved for the loan relative to other lenders you prequalify with. Based on Credible data, borrowers who chose to apply for a loan with Best Egg were more than twice as likely to be approved (relative to most other Credible partners).
Loan amount
$2,000 to $50,000
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, unsuccessful payment fee, check processing fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WV
Min. income
None
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days after successful verification
Loan uses
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes
Borrowers with fair credit
60Month Loans
4
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
-
Loan Amount
$1,000 to $10,000
Min. Credit Score
580
Pros and cons
No hard credit inquiry when applying
Open to borrowers with fair credit
Excellent customer reviews
Funding as soon as the next business day
Low minimum loan amount
Relatively high starting APRs
Only available in 15 states
Doesn't allow co-signers
No mobile app
More details
Overview
If you have fair credit (a FICO score between 580 and 669), 60 Month Loans is one of a few personal loan lenders that may consider your application. Plus, the company doesn’t conduct a hard credit check. That means, unlike most other personal loan lenders, your credit score won’t take a hit if you apply for a 60 Month Loan. It should be pointed out that the company offers a range of repayment terms, from one year to five years.
However, the maximum loan amount is low relative to other lenders, some of which offer loans up to $50,000 or more. And APRs start high, making the company a poor choice for applicants with excellent credit. Check your state for availability, as loans aren’t available nationwide.
Loan amount
$1,000 - $10,000 (up to $7,000 for first time borrowers)
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except AK, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, GU, HI, IL, IN, KS, LA, MA, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, NE, NV, NJ, NY, NC, MP, OH, OK, PA, PR, RI, TN, TX, TT, VT, VI, WA, WV, WI, WY
Min. income
$2,500
Customer service
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
1 - 3 days
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, home repair, emergency expenses, medical expenses
Best for all credit types
Avant
3.9
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
9.95 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$2,000 to $35,000
Min. Credit Score
550
Pros and cons
Borrowers with bad credit considered
Funds as soon as the next business day
2-year loan terms available
No discounts offered
Origination fee
Not available in HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, or WV
More details
Overview
Avant personal loans are a good choice for borrowers with bad credit looking for small- to moderate-sized personal loans. Loans are available up to $35,000 and you could get the money as soon as the next business day after approval. Plus, Avant is more likely than some lenders to approve the applications of borrowers who've prequalified with Avant. However, the lender charges an origination fee up to 9.99%, and its top-range interest rates are among the highest of the lenders we reviewed.
Loan amount
$2,000 to $35,000**
Fees
Origination fee, late fee, dishonored payment fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except HI, IA, MA, ME, NY, VT, and WV
Min. income
$1,200 monthly
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
Repayment terms
2 to 5 years
Best fast personal loans for all credit types
Upstart
3.9
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
7.80 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$1,000 to $50,000
Min. Credit Score
620
Pros and cons
May fund in 1 business day
No minimum credit score requirement on lender site
Low minimum APR
Trustpilot score of 4.9/5 stars
May charge a high origination fee
No discounts offered
More details
Overview
Upstart has one of the lowest available APRs of Credible partner lenders and of all non-partners we reviewed, making it a good choice for well-qualified applicants. However, it's also is one of few lenders that doesn't have a minimum credit score requirement (if you apply on the lender's website), which makes it an option if you have bad credit or no credit history. Upstart may charge an origination fee as high as 12%, but good-credit borrowers may not be charged one at all.
Trustpilot gives Upstart 4.9 stars, which is the highest of all lenders we reviewed.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $50,000
Fees
Origination fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available nationwide
Min. income
$12,000
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 3 business days
Loan uses
Pay off credit cards, consolidate debt, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes
Best bad credit personal loans
OneMain Financial
3.9
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
18.00 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$1,500 to $20,000
Min. Credit Score
540
Pros and cons
Flexible eligibility requirements
Offers secured options
Competitive bad-credit loans
Physical presence
Availability
Origination fees
High starting APR
More details
Overview
OneMain Financial has multiple options for bad-credit personal loans. There is no minimum credit score required (if you apply directly with OneMain), which means you could get a loan with bad credit (FICO below 580). Plus, cosigners are allowed — a cosigner is someone (ideally, with good credit) who promises to repay the loan if you can't, which can make it easier to qualify or lower your rate. And, secured personal loans are available. You secure a loan with collateral, which may also help you qualify or lower your rate.
Rates are higher than competitors and OneMain charges origination fees as either a flat fee up to $500, or a percentage from 1% to 10% (depending on your state of residence). Note that even if you prequalify for a personal loan with OneMain, getting approved isn't a given.
Loan amount
$1,500 to $20,000
Fees
Origination fee, unsuccessful payment fee, late fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
Min. income
Does not disclose
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as 1 to 2 days after acceptance
Loan use
All except business, and education
Best for fast funding and fair credit
Reach Financial
3.7
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
14.30 - 35.99%
Loan Amount
$3,500 to $40,000
Min. Credit Score
640
Pros and cons
Fast funding
Can improve credit
Fair-credit borrowers may be eligible
Limited use
High starting loan amounts
Origination fee
Limited availability: Not available in CO, CT, ME, NV, NH, TN, VT, WV, or WY
More details
Overview
Reach is an option if you have fair credit, especially if you need money fast. According to the company, 90% of Reach personal loans are funded within one day of approval.
It's a good choice for debt consolidation and credit card refinancing, but borrowers with excellent credit may not find the lowest rates with Reach. The company also charges more fees than some of its competitors and doesn't offer direct pay or autopay discounts. If you need a 7-year term loan, you'll need to look elsewhere. Reach personal loans are not available in all states.
Loan amount
$3,500 to $40,000
Fees
Origination Fee, $15 Late Fee, $25 NSF Fee
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Available in all states except CO, CT, ME, NV, NH, TN, VT, WV, WY, and all U.S. Territories
Min. income
$1,000 monthly
Customer service
Phone, email
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
Funds typically deposited into your account in 1 business day13
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing
Best for short-term loans and same day funding
Zable
3.2
Credible Rating
Check Rates
on Credible’s website
Est. APR
-
Loan Amount
$1,000 to $35,000
Min. Credit Score
600
Pros and cons
Funding as soon as the same day
Low minimum income required
100% digital process
No discounts
Maximum loan amount is lower than most other lenders
Origination fee
Not available in CO, CT, IN, KS, LA, ME, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NV, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, VT, WV, WI, or WY
More details
Overview
Zable offers relatively small loan amounts — ranging from $1,000 to $35,000 — that can be deposited in your account as soon as the same day you are approved, if it is by the lender's deadline. It’s an option for fair-credit borrowers, with a minimum credit score of 600, as well as those with lower incomes.
Its origination fees range from 5% to 9%, however, and it does not offer discounts, secured loans, nor the option to add a cosigner to your application. Zable also currently does not offer loans in 21 states.
Loan amount
$1,000 to $35,000
Repayment terms
1 to 5 years
Fees
Origination fees (5% to 9%)
Discounts
None
Eligibility
Not available in CO, CT, IN, KS, LA, ME, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NV, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, VT, WV, WI, or WY
Min. income
$1,000 per month
Customer service
Email, phone
Soft credit check
Yes
Time to get funds
As soon as the same day
Loan uses
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, home improvement, major purchase, car financing
Methodology
Credible evaluated the best personal loan lenders for emergency loans based on factors such as minimum credit score and income requirements, customer experience, minimum fixed rate, maximum loan amount, funding time, loan terms, fees, discounts, and whether cosigners are accepted. Credible's team of experts gathered information from each lender's website, customer service department, directly from our partners, and via email support. Each data point was verified by a third party to make sure it was accurate and up to date.
Learn more about how Credible rates lenders by exploring our Personal Loans Lender Rating Methodology.
What is an emergency loan?
An emergency loan refers to any type of loan used to access cash on short notice. You can use an emergency loan for almost any purpose, such as car repairs, a large purchase, or medical expenses.
Tip
It’s important to know which type of loan you’re getting before you apply, as not all emergency loans are created equal, and some are much better for your long-term financial health than others. Payday and title loans, for example, are best avoided.
How to compare emergency loans
When you compare emergency loans, consider the following:
- APR: A loan's annual percentage rate, or APR, tells you how much you'll pay annually on interest and fees, expressed as a percentage. The lower the APR, the less it'll cost to borrow.
- Loan amounts: You can find loan amounts ranging from as low as $600 up to $50,000 or more, depending on your credit, income, and the lender. Lenders for short-term loans, like payday loans, typically offer $500 or less but usually come with extremely high fees.
- Terms: Depending on the type of emergency loan, terms can range from 1 to 7 years. The shorter the term, the higher your monthly payment will likely be.
- Funding time: Look for a lender that offers fast funding. Some lenders can finance your loan as soon as the same or next business day.
- Lender's reputation: Be sure to check out customer reviews before choosing a lender. Consider predatory lending signs such as exorbitant high interest rates and no credit check. If many previous customers have had negative experiences working with a lender, that may be a red flag.
How do emergency loans work?
Each type of emergency loan functions slightly differently. Here is a breakdown of some of the different forms of emergency loans:
- Personal loans: A personal loan is a monthly installment loan that's typically unsecured. Qualification hinges on your credit score, income, and other financial factors. If you qualify, you'll receive a lump sum for the loan amount. Then you'll pay it back, plus interest, in monthly payments over the loan's term.
- Payday loans (not recommended): A payday loan is a short-term loan for a small amount of money - typically no more than a few hundred dollars. But they're known for fees amounting to astronomical APRs - sometimes as high as 400% or more. In most cases, there are better loan options.
- Title loans (not recommended): A title loan is a short-term loan that uses your vehicle title as collateral. Typically, loan amounts are for up to 50% of your car's value. These are some of the most expensive emergency loans, with APRs of up to 300% - and they're not legal in every state.
- Payday alternative loan: Available from certain federal credit unions, these were developed as a more affordable alternative to pricey payday loans. You'll need to be a member of the credit union to take one out, but they're available in amounts of up to $2,000 with terms up to a year in some cases. Rates are capped at 28%.
- Credit card cash advance: A cash advance from your credit card allows you to withdraw cash in a pinch. But you'll have to pay extra fees, and this service may have an even higher interest rate than your regular APR. Interest typically accrues immediately.
- Cash advance apps: Cash advance apps allow you to borrow small amounts from your upcoming paycheck before you receive it. While convenient, it can be an expensive way to borrow. These apps sometimes charge subscription and fast funding fees, which can send APRs into the triple digits.
Compare types of emergency loans
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How to get an emergency loan
Generally, you may have to meet certain eligibility requirements before applying for a loan. Eligibility requirements vary by loan type and lender, but lenders typically consider the following:
- Credit score: Some emergency lenders don't check your credit, while others do. (Emergency loans with the best rates usually come from the latter.) It's best to have a fair credit score or higher - that's a score of at least 580. But certain emergency loans, like Upstart, OneMain, and Universal Credit consider lower scores. Payday loans, cash app advances, and some bad-credit installment loans don't check your credit, but fees and interest rates are typically much higher.
- Income verification: To qualify for many loans, you may be required to prove you have a stable income. This helps show lenders you'll have the cash on hand to pay back a loan.
- Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Your DTI measures your monthly debt payments against your gross monthly income, and is used when determining your loan eligibility. Most lenders require a DTI of around 36% or less.
- Collateral: If you apply for a secured emergency loan, you'll need collateral. In the case of a title loan, this would be your car title.
How to apply for an emergency loan
The process for getting an emergency loan varies by loan type. Title loans, payday loans, credit card cash advances, and cash advance apps often have a simpler, quicker process for getting cash.
When it comes to applying for a personal loan, however, you'll have to do a little more legwork to apply and qualify:
- Check your credit: Your credit score plays a big role in the type of loan you can qualify for, so it's important to know before comparing loans. Plus, checking your credit report gives you a chance to make sure there are no mistakes negatively impacting your score. If there are, dispute them with the appropriate bureau(s).
- Compare lenders: Rather than applying for the first loan you see, take time to compare lenders. Even a small difference in the interest rate can equate to huge savings over the life of a loan. Pay attention to things like funding time, fees, terms, and a lender's reputation, too.
- Apply for a loan: Most lenders allow you to apply for a loan online. You'll need to provide your personal and financial information, plus income verification.
- Finalize the loan and begin payments: Once you receive a loan offer, read the loan agreement carefully before signing. After receiving your funds, you'll begin making your monthly payments.
Alternatives to emergency loans
Sometimes an emergency loan isn't the best way to pay for unexpected expenses. If you're looking for an alternative to an emergency loan, consider the following:
- Credit card purchase: Depending on the size of the emergency, you may be able to cover it with a simple credit card purchase. Credit card interest rates can be high, though, so try to not put a charge on a credit card you won't be able to pay off quickly.
- Help from family or friends: If you have family and friends willing to help you out in a financial emergency, you may be able to avoid the costs of borrowing. When taking a loan from friends or family, it can help to put repayment terms in writing.
- Paycheck advance: Paycheck, or payroll, advances are a type of short-term loan that allow you to borrow against your next paycheck, then pay it back out of a future paycheck or in a series of installments. But not all employers offer this service.
- Personal line of credit: A personal line of credit is similar to a credit card - you can borrow against it as needed and have to make minimum payments each month. You often need to have a checking account at a bank or credit union in order to open a personal line of credit there.
- Financial assistance: Depending on your personal and financial situation, there may be assistance programs to help you during an emergency. Start by calling 211 to get connected with resources in your area.
How to build an emergency fund
Certain situations may call for an emergency loan, but ideally you can set aside a cash buffer for emergencies. Here's how to start saving for that emergency fund:
- Figure out how much you need to save: Many financial experts suggest setting aside three to six months' worth of essential living expenses for emergencies. Calculate your monthly essentials, and decide on a target that'll give you some peace of mind.
- Set a reasonable monthly savings goal: Setting a reasonable savings goal each month can keep you motivated when your goal seems out of reach. Even if you can only afford to save a little each month, set a goal and slowly increase it when you can.
- Set up an automatic transfer into a dedicated savings account: Make sure your savings actually make it into an emergency fund by setting up automatic transfers from your checking into your savings. To get the most bang for your buck, keep emergency savings in a high-yield savings account.
FAQ
Where can I get an emergency loan?
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It depends on the type of loan you're looking for. You can get personal loans at banks, credit unions, or from online lenders. You can get payday alternative loans from certain federal credit unions. You may also be able to get a cash advance from your credit card company or use a cash advance app like Dave or MoneyLion.
Read more: Where Can I Get a Personal Loan?
How can I improve my chances of approval for an emergency loan?
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You can improve your chances of loan approval by building your credit and lowering your DTI. However, these aren't metrics you can necessarily improve overnight. If you're looking for a quicker way to improve your chances of loan approval, you can apply for an emergency loan that allows cosigners, or you can apply for a secured loan.
Read more: Ways To Improve Your Personal Loan Application
What can I use an emergency loan for?
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You can use an emergency loan to pay for a wide range of unexpected costs. For example, an emergency loan could cover emergency travel, urgent vehicle or home repairs, emergency vet bills, or other unplanned costs.
Read more: What Are Personal Loans Used For?
Can you qualify for an emergency loan with bad credit?
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You might - it depends on the type of loan you apply for, your financial situation, and whether or not you apply with a cosigner. If you have bad credit, start by looking specifically for loans for bad credit. Keep in mind, these loans may have higher interest rates and fees. If you're having trouble qualifying for an affordable loan, try applying with a cosigner or getting a secured loan.
Read more: Best Loans for Bad Credit
Read More:
- How To Get Approved for a Personal Loan
- Types of Personal Loans
- Secured vs. Unsecured Loans
- Best Online Loans
- Best Banks for Personal Loans
- Best Personal Loans With a Cosigner
- Best Home Improvement Loans
Meet the expert:
Emily Batdorf
Emily Batdorf is a personal finance expert, specializing in banking, lending, credit cards, and budgeting. Drawing on her scientific background, she's developed a knack for analyzing financial products in the context of different needs. She finds joy in helping readers understand their best options and shuns a one-size-fits-all approach.