10 Best Personal Loans for 2025

Personal loans remain one of the most flexible financial tools in 2025. Whether you want to consolidate high-interest credit card debt, cover a large expense like a home improvement project, or simply bridge a financial gap, personal loans can provide predictable monthly payments and fixed interest rates.

With rising living costs and ongoing interest rate shifts, lenders are competing harder than ever to attract borrowers. The good news? Borrowers now have access to more competitive rates, faster approval times, and innovative underwriting models that go beyond just your credit score.

But with so many lenders out there, the challenge is knowing which personal loan is right for you. The wrong loan could mean high fees or an APR that eats into your budget, while the right loan can save you thousands over the life of the loan.

In this guide, we break down the 10 best personal loans for 2025, highlight their features, and help you match the right lender to your financial situation.

What to Look for in a Personal Loan

Before comparing lenders, it’s crucial to know the factors that determine whether a personal loan is a good for you or not, and these are a few necessities that these lenders should have to help you find a perfect fit.

Interest Rates (APR)

• APRs on personal loans in 2025 typically range from 6% to 36%, depending on credit score and lender.
• Borrowers with excellent credit qualify for single-digit rates, while those with weaker credit may face higher costs.

Loan Amounts & Terms

• Most lenders provide loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $100,000.
• Repayment terms typically span from 12 to 84 months.
• Longer terms can lower your monthly payments but will increase the total interest you pay.

Fees

Keep an eye out for:

• Origination fees (ranging from 1% to 8% of the loan).
• Prepayment penalties (some lenders still impose fees for paying off loans early).
• Late fees if you miss payments.
• Some top lenders, like Marcus and SoFi, promote no fees at all.

Approval Speed

• These days, many online lenders are stepping up their game by offering same-day approval and funding.
• In contrast, traditional banks can take several business days to get things moving.

Credit Score Requirements

• If you have excellent credit (720+), you’re likely to snag the best rates available.
• Good credit (660–719) still puts you in the running for some pretty competitive terms.
• If your credit is fair (600–659), lenders like Upgrade or Avant might still give you a shot.
• For those with subprime credit (<600), options are a bit limited, and you might face higher APRs.

Special Features

• Look out for autopay discounts, which usually give you about 0.25% off your APR.
• Some lenders even offer direct payments to creditors for debt consolidation loans.
• You can also consider co-signer or joint loan options to boost your chances of approval.
• And don’t forget about unemployment protection—SoFi has this covered.

Lender Reputation & Support

• Reputable names like Discover, Goldman Sachs (Marcus), and SoFi can provide you with some peace of mind.
• Always take a moment to check BBB ratings, CFPB complaints, and customer reviews to make sure you’re choosing a reliable lender.

Quick Comparison Table: Best Personal Loans for 2025

Lender	APR Range (2025)	Loan Amounts	Credit Score Min.	Best For	Standout Feature
SoFi	8% – 23%	$5,000 – $100,000	680+	Best Overall	No fees + unemployment protection
LightStream	7% – 21%	$5,000 – $100,000	660+	Low Rates	Very low APR for excellent credit
Marcus by Goldman Sachs	8% – 25%	$3,500 – $40,000	660+	No Fees	No origination, late, or prepayment fees
Upgrade	9% – 35%	$1,000 – $50,000	600+	Fair Credit	Fast approval + free credit monitoring
Upstart	8% – 35%	$1,000 – $50,000	580+	Thin Credit Histories	AI-powered underwriting
LendingClub	9% – 36%	$1,000 – $40,000	600+	Peer-to-Peer Loans	Direct investor funding
Discover	8% – 25%	$2,500 – $40,000	660+	Debt Consolidation	Direct payment to creditors
Avant	11% – 36%	$2,000 – $35,000	580+	Bad Credit	Approves lower scores
Best Egg	8% – 36%	$2,000 – $50,000	600+	Fast Funding	Same-day loan funding available
Prosper	8% – 35%	$2,000 – $40,000	600+	Flexible Borrowers	Established P2P marketplace

(APR ranges are estimates for 2025; actual rates depend on credit profile, income, and lender policies.)

The 10 Best Personal Loans for 2025

1. SoFi – Best Overall Personal Loan

Overview:

SoFi has become one of the most popular personal loan providers thanks to its no-fee structure and borrower-friendly policies. By 2025, it’s the go-to choice for borrowers with good to excellent credit who want high loan amounts and flexible terms.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: $5,000 – $100,000.
• APR: 8% – 23%.
• No origination fees, late fees, or penalties for early repayment.
• Their unemployment protection program allows you to pause payments if you find yourself out of work.
• You can snag rate discounts if you set up autopay or are already a SoFi member.

Best For:

Borrowers with solid credit scores who want to secure large loans without the stress of hidden fees.

Downsides:

• The minimum loan amount is on the higher side ($5,000).
• Not the best fit for those with credit scores below 680.

2. LightStream (Truist) – Best for Low Rates

Overview:

LightStream, a division of Truist Bank, is famous for offering some of the lowest APRs in the industry for borrowers with excellent credit. In 2025, it’s still a top choice for borrowers seeking low-cost financing on large loans.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: $5,000 – $100,000.
• APR: 7% – 21% (one of the lowest rates you can find).
• No fees whatsoever.
• With their Rate Beat Program, LightStream will beat a competitor’s rate by 0.10% if you meet certain criteria.
• Many applicants can enjoy same-day funding.

Best For:

Borrowers with excellent credit scores who are after the lowest interest rates available.

Downsides:

• You’ll need a strong credit history and income to qualify.
• There’s no prequalification tool, so a hard inquiry is necessary when applying.

3. Marcus by Goldman Sachs – Best for No Fees

Overview:

Marcus by Goldman Sachs has built its reputation on transparent, no-fee lending. It offers moderate loan sizes but remains a favorite for borrowers who want simple terms and a trusted brand.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: Ranging from $3,500 to $40,000.
• APR: Between 8% and 25%.
• No fees whatsoever (that means no origination, late, or prepayment fees).
• On-time payment perks: After making 12 consecutive payments, you can skip one payment without any interest.
• Prequalification is available with just a soft credit check.

Best For:

Borrowers who prioritize simplicity, transparency, and a zero fees experience.

Downsides:

• The maximum loan amount is lower than what you’d find with SoFi or LightStream.
• Not the best option for those with poor credit.

4. Upgrade – Best for Fair Credit

Overview:

Upgrade is designed for borrowers who may not have excellent credit but still want access to competitive personal loans. Its fast approval process, free credit monitoring, and debt consolidation tools make it a strong option for middle-tier borrowers.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: $1,000 – $50,000.
• APR: 9% – 35%.
• Welcomes fair credit borrowers (600+).
• Offers direct payments to creditors for debt consolidation.
• Includes a free credit score tracker and financial tools.
• Prequalification is available with a soft credit check.

Best For:

Individuals with average or fair credit looking for a straightforward, transparent loan along with tools to keep an eye on their credit health.

Downsides:

• Origination fees range from 1.85% to 9.99%.
• Maximum APR is higher compared to lenders focused on prime credit.

5. Upstart – Best for Alternative Credit Data

Overview:

Upstart is unique because it uses AI-powered underwriting that looks beyond traditional credit scores. It factors in education, job history, and other data, making it more accessible for borrowers with thin or limited credit history.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: $1,000 – $50,000.
• APR: 8% – 35%.
• Accepts borrowers with credit scores as low as 580.
• AI underwriting boosts approval odds for younger applicants.
• Quick approval, often with funding in as little as 24 hours.

Best For:

Borrowers who have a limited credit history or lower credit scores and are seeking approval based on alternative criteria.

Downsides:

• Origination fees can reach up to 8%.
• Rates may escalate for subprime borrowers.

6. LendingClub – Best for Peer-to-Peer Lending

Overview:

LendingClub pioneered peer-to-peer (P2P) lending and remains one of the largest platforms connecting borrowers directly with investors. It’s a great option for those looking for flexibility and transparency.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $40,000.
• APR varies between 9% and 36%.
• Welcomes borrowers with fair credit (600+).
• Offers direct payments to creditors for those looking to consolidate.
• Allows joint applications, which can boost your chances of approval.

Best For:

This is best loan platform for borrowers seeking a P2P lending experience, especially if they might need to apply jointly to qualify.

Downsides:

• Origination fees can be between 2% and 6%.
• The approval process may take longer compared to instant online lenders.

7. Discover Personal Loans – Best for Debt Consolidation

Overview:

Discover is a well-known name in the financial world, and their personal loans are particularly great for debt consolidation. They allow you to pay your creditors directly, which simplifies the process of merging multiple debts into a single loan.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: Ranging from $2,500 to $40,000.
• APR: Between 8% and 25%.
• Welcomes borrowers with good credit scores (660 and above).
• No origination fees or prepayment penalties.
• Direct payments to creditors for easier debt consolidation.
• 30-day money-back guarantee: You can return the loan funds within 30 days and cancel without any interest charges.

Best For:

Those looking to combine several debts into one easy monthly payment.

Downsides:

• The minimum loan amount is higher than some competitors at $2,500.
• Not the best choice for borrowers with bad credit.

8. Avant – Best for Bad Credit

Overview:

Avant focuses on providing personal loans to borrowers with lower credit scores. While their APRs are on the higher side, they offer a crucial option for individuals who might find it hard to qualify elsewhere.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: From $2,000 to $35,000.
• APR: Ranges from 11% to 36%.
• Accepts borrowers with credit scores as low as 580.
• Quick approvals and funding within just a few days.
• Transparent fee structure with origination fees of up to 4.75%.

Best For:

Borrowers with bad credit or limited credit history who need quick access to funds.

Downsides:

• Interest rates are higher compared to prime lenders.
• The maximum loan amount is lower than what you might find with SoFi or LightStream.

9. Best Egg – Best for Fast Funding

Overview:

Best Egg has built a reputation for quick loan approvals and fast funding, often disbursing money the same day. It’s a solid choice for borrowers who need cash quickly.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: Ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.
• APR: Between 8% and 36%.
• Welcomes borrowers with fair credit (600+).
• Same-day approval and funding available in many cases.
• Prequalification is an option with a soft credit check.

Best For:

Those who need quick access to cash and have at least fair credit.

Downsides:

• Origination fees can range from 0.99% to 8.99%.
• The APR range is higher compared to lenders like SoFi or LightStream.

10. Prosper – Best for Flexible Borrowers

Overview:

Prosper is one of the oldest peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms in the U.S., connecting borrowers directly with investors. Since 2005, it has helped fund billions in loans. In 2025, it’s a great choice for borrowers who want flexible loan terms and may not fit into traditional bank underwriting.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts: Ranging from $2,000 to $40,000.
• APR: Between 8% and 35%.
• Minimum credit score: 600.
• Joint applications are welcome, which can enhance your chances of approval.
• No penalties for early repayment.
• Prequalification is available with just a soft credit check.

Best For:

Borrowers looking for adaptable loan options within a P2P framework, or those who can benefit from applying jointly.

Downsides:

• Origination fees can range from 1% to 5%.
• The funding process might take longer compared to lenders offering instant approvals.

Which Loan Is Best for You? (Decision Guide)

Selecting the best personal loan depends on your credit profile, funding requirements, and which features matters most to you:

Best for Excellent Credit: LightStream, SoFi

• LightStream boasts some of the lowest APRs available.
• SoFi pairs substantial loan amounts with no fees and solid borrower protections.

Best for Good Credit: Marcus, Discover

• Marcus has zero fees, making it a great choice.
• Discover shines for debt consolidation with direct payments to creditors.

Best for Fair Credit: Upgrade, Best Egg

• Upgrade offers easy access for those with fair credit and includes credit tracking.
• Best Egg is ideal for anyone needing quick funding.

Best for Bad Credit: Avant

• Avant is among the few mainstream lenders willing to approve borrowers with scores under 600.

Best for Fast Funding: Best Egg, Upgrade

• Both can approve and release funds within a single day.

Best for Joint Applications or P2P Flexibility: LendingClub, Prosper

• Both platforms allow for joint borrowers and connect you with individual investors.

Regulation and Consumer Protection in 2025

When it comes to borrowing money, it’s no joke, and in 2025, consumer protections are more robust than ever. Here’s a rundown of the safeguards you can count on:

CFPB Oversight

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is on the job, keeping an eye on lending practices across the U.S. Lenders are required to be upfront about APRs, fees, and repayment terms.

State Usury Laws

Many states have set limits on interest rates (known as usury laws) to help protect against predatory lending. Just keep in mind that online lenders might operate under different state regulations, so it’s always wise to read the fine print.

Truth in Lending Act (TILA)

Before you sign on the dotted line, all lenders must provide you with a Truth in Lending disclosure. This document lays out the APR, fees, and the total cost of repayment.

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

This act safeguards borrowers by ensuring that lenders report accurate information to credit bureaus, and it gives you the right to dispute any errors.

Borrower Tips for Safety

• Always compare at least three loan offers before making a decision.
• Look for prequalification tools that use soft credit checks, so you can shop around without impacting your score.
• Be cautious of origination fees above 10% or lenders not transparent about terms.
• Avoid payday loans or predatory lenders that charge extremely high APRs.

FAQs

Q1. What’s a good interest rate for a personal loan in 2025?

If you have excellent credit, you can expect a good APR to be around 7%–10% in 2025. For those with good to fair credit, rates might range from 11%–20%, while borrowers with poor credit could see APRs hitting 25%–36%.

Q2. Can I get a personal loan with bad credit?

Absolutely! Lenders like Avant and Upstart are known for approving borrowers with lower credit scores. Just keep in mind that you’ll likely face higher APRs, and it might be a good idea to apply with a co-signer or work on improving your credit before you borrow.

Q3. How fast can I get approved and funded?

Certain lenders like Best Egg and Upgrade can get you approved and funded on the same day. Others, particularly traditional banks, might take anywhere from 2 to 5 business days.

Q4. What fees should I watch out for?

The most common fees include origination fees (ranging from 1% to 8%), late payment fees, and, in rare cases, prepayment penalties. However, lenders like SoFi and Marcus offer loans with no fees at all.

Q5. Is a personal loan better than using a credit card?

It really depends on your individual situation. A personal loan typically comes with a fixed APR and a set repayment term, which can be beneficial for consolidating high-interest credit card debt. On the other hand, if you only need short-term financing and can pay it off quickly, a credit card might offer more flexibility.

Conclusion

Personal loans in 2025 are more accessible, flexible, and competitive than ever. Whether you’re consolidating debt, funding a home project, or covering a major expense, there’s a lender tailored to your needs.

• SoFi and LightStream are best for borrowers with excellent credit who want low rates and no fees.
• Marcus and Discover shine for those who value transparency and debt consolidation features.
• Upgrade, Upstart, and Best Egg serve borrowers with fair credit or nontraditional credit profiles.
• Avant remains one of the top options for those with bad credit.
• LendingClub and Prosper bring flexibility through peer-to-peer lending and joint applications.

No single lender is right for everyone. The smartest approach is to compare multiple prequalified offers, consider your credit profile, and choose the loan that balances cost, speed, and features.

Above all, borrow responsibly. Personal loans can be a powerful tool when used wisely, helping you save on interest, manage debt, or fund important goals. In 2025, the right personal loan isn’t just about borrowing money—it’s about building a stronger financial future.