Can I Get Approved for an Installment Loan With Bad Credit?

Wise Loan Editorial Team
By: Wise Loan Editorial Team
an alarm clock sits in front of stacks of coins

Installment Loans for Bad Credit

Facing a lackluster or unfavorable credit score can be quite disheartening, particularly when you find yourself in need of an installment loan to address unexpected expenses. Moreover, it can feel like being trapped in a Catch-22 situation, where good credit is required to obtain a loan, yet a loan is needed to improve your credit. In such circumstances, where can you seek assistance?

One possibility is to explore installment loans designed for individuals with poor credit. By delving into the details of installment loans and understanding the available options for those with less-than-optimal credit, you can learn how to safely apply for a loan tailored to bad credit situations.

What Are Personal Installment Loans?

Personal installment loans involve repaying the borrowed amount in predetermined installments. Once your loan application is approved, you receive a lump sum of funds. Subsequently, you gradually repay the borrowed funds, along with applicable interest and fees, over a specified period. The frequency of installments, whether monthly, biweekly, or weekly, depends on the terms agreed upon with the lender.

What Are Installment Loans for Bad Credit?

Installment loans for bad credit are specifically tailored for individuals with lower credit scores, who might face difficulties in obtaining approval for other loan options. It’s important to note that these loans generally carry higher interest rates. This is because the lender perceives a certain level of risk in providing you with the loan and employs higher rates as a precautionary measure to mitigate potential losses.

How Do Bad Credit Installment Loans Work?

While the specific nuances of installment loans can vary, they generally follow a consistent process:

  1. You initiate the loan application.
  2. Upon approval, the lender disburses the loan amount, often through a direct transfer to your bank account, especially with online installment loans.
  3. The received funds can be utilized for any permissible purpose stated in the loan agreement, typically encompassing a wide range of legal expenses.
  4. You proceed to repay the loan according to the agreed-upon terms. The duration of personal loans can span from six months to several years, depending on the specified terms.
  5. Once the loan is fully repaid, the loan agreement is concluded, and you have no further outstanding obligations.
  6. In certain situations, upon successfully settling an existing loan, you may become eligible to apply for another installment loan with the same lender.

How Do Installment Loans Work?
Common Types Of Installment Loans

Installment loans are a prevalent form of borrowing that you may already be familiar with or currently have. They encompass various types, including:

  1. Mortgages: These substantial installment loans are employed for purchasing homes.
  2. Auto loans: Specifically designed for acquiring vehicles, these loans also fall under the category of larger installment loans.
  3. Student loans: Debts that are repaid in installments, typically after completing your education.
  4. Personal loans: Usually smaller in size, these installment loans can be utilized for a diverse range of purposes.

Benefits of an Installment Loan

Installment loans provide a means to cover expenses or make purchases when you don’t have immediate cash readily available. For instance, if you require a new HVAC system for your home or need to repair your car but lack the necessary funds at present, an installment loan can help alleviate the financial burden.

By determining the affordable installment payment you can comfortably manage, you can address a substantial expense promptly while gradually repaying the loan over time. This approach ensures that your budget remains relatively stress-free throughout the repayment period.

Can I Get an Installment Loan With Bad Credit?

Indeed, it is possible to obtain an installment loan even if you have bad credit. However, it’s important to note that your choices may be somewhat restricted compared to those with a better credit score. Bad credit installment loans might also entail higher interest rates, but it is worth noting that there are options available that don’t necessitate a credit check at all.

What Is Considered Bad Credit?

Bad credit generally pertains to having a low credit score. Typically, credit scores below 600 (or in the high 500s) are regarded as indicative of bad credit. On the other hand, credit scores ranging from the high 500s to the low 600s are often categorized as fair credit. Credit scores above approximately 660 are considered good.

What Are the Steps To Get an Installment Loan?

To secure an installment loan, the typical steps involve:

  1. Conducting thorough research on lenders and loan options. It is essential to compare different installment loans to determine their associated costs and terms. This allows you to gauge the monthly repayment amount and the overall loan expense.
  2. Obtaining your credit report. By accessing your credit report, you can assess your credit standing and determine whether you qualify for a loan or if you should explore bad credit installment loan alternatives. You can obtain a complimentary copy of your credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com.
  3. Selecting a loan that aligns with your requirements. This entails identifying a loan for which you believe you have a reasonable chance of approval based on your credit situation, and one that you can comfortably afford in terms of repayments.
  4. Initiating the loan application process. This may involve providing identification documentation, bank account details, and proof of address. Some lenders may also require verification of income.
  5. Awaiting approval notification. In the case of Wise Loan, you can typically expect to receive approval or rejection within minutes for our installment loans.

How to Apply for an Installment Loan for Bad Credit

The application process for an installment loan for bad credit is similar to applying for any other installment loan. However, it is advisable to carefully review the specific requirements of the lenders. It is beneficial to seek out options that do not involve a credit check or explicitly mention that bad credit will not hinder approval. By paying attention to these aspects, you can increase the likelihood of finding suitable lenders who are more accommodating towards individuals with bad credit.

How Many Monthly Payments Will I Have to Make?

The number of payments required for your installment loan depends on both the loan term and the loan amount. Generally, short-term personal installment loans are designed to be repaid within six months to less than two years. On the other hand, larger personal loans may have a repayment period that extends up to five years.

Can I Have Multiple Installment Loans?

It is indeed possible to have multiple installment loans simultaneously. For instance, individuals commonly have installment loans such as a mortgage, car loans, and student loans, among others.

However, it is important to note that many personal loan lenders have restrictions when it comes to obtaining multiple personal installment loans concurrently, particularly for borrowers with bad credit. Lenders already assume a level of risk when granting a loan and typically prefer not to extend that risk to a second loan. Nevertheless, once you have successfully paid off an installment loan, you are typically eligible to apply for another one.

What Is the Easiest Loan to Be Approved for With Bad Credit?

When it comes to obtaining a loan with bad credit, the most accessible option typically involves loans that do not require a credit check. Wise Loan provides loans specifically designed for individuals with bad credit, enabling them to address their immediate expenses while simultaneously working towards improving their credit scores.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installment Loans for Bad Credit

What can you use an installment loan for?

Typically, funds obtained from personal installment loans can be utilized for any legal expense. However, it’s important to note that some lenders may impose restrictions on certain uses, such as prohibiting funds from being used for debt consolidation.

Who should consider applying for an installment loan?

An installment loan may be suitable for individuals who require immediate funds to cover expenses that they cannot afford in a lump sum but can manage through smaller monthly payments.

How do installment loans impact your credit?

Undergoing a credit check for loan approval may cause a temporary slight decrease in your credit score. However, making timely payments on your loan can have a positive impact on your credit score. Conversely, missing payments on your loan can significantly harm your credit score.

What credit score is needed to qualify for an installment loan?

The credit score required to qualify for an installment loan varies based on the lender, loan size, and desired interest rate. Generally, more favorable terms and larger loan amounts typically necessitate higher credit scores. Nonetheless, there are smaller personal loan options available that do not require good credit or any credit history at all.

Are credit checks conducted for installment loans?

Whether a lender performs a credit check for an installment loan depends on their specific policies. There are installment loan options, such as Wise Loan loans, that do not require a credit check or mandate good credit.

The recommendations contained in this article are designed for informational purposes only.  Essential Lending DBA Wise Loan does not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided in this article; is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or misrepresentations; and is not responsible for the consequences of any decisions or actions taken as a result of the information provided above.

More information on Installment Loans and how they work in your state:

Share
  • Facebook Icon
  • Twitter Icon
  • Linked In Icon

Recommended next reading

About the Author

Wise Loan Editorial Team

Wise Loan Editorial Team

Introducing the Wise Loan Editorial Team – a collective of experienced finance and credit professionals dedicated to enhancing your financial path. Our team boasts over three decades of expertise in the finance sector, united in our commitment to deliver reliable and practical financial insights. True to the Wise Loan ethos, our goal is to positively impact the financial well-being of our customers.

Read more