9 Loans Like Upstart

Eric Bank
By: Eric Bank
The word, “Loan,” on wooden blocks | Loans like Upstart

The word, “Loan,” on wooden blocks | Loans like Upstart
Exploring personal loan options similar to Upstart unveils many alternatives, each with unique benefits tailored to different financial scenarios. As you navigate the diverse landscape of “9 Loans Like Upstart,” you’ll encounter lenders offering competitive rates, flexible terms, and varying credit requirements. Whether you’re consolidating debt, financing a large purchase, or covering unexpected expenses, understanding these alternatives can guide you to a decision that matches your individual financial needs. This article broadens your choices and provides you with the information to select a loan that best suits your circumstances.

Overview of Upstart Loans

Upstart stands out in the personal loan market with its unique AI-driven approach, considering more than just credit scores to determine eligibility and rates. This approach can benefit those with limited credit history. However, while Upstart’s innovative model and quick funding attract many, certain aspects lead some individuals to seek alternatives. These include origination fees that can add to the loan’s cost, the inability to apply with co-signers to improve approval chances or secure better rates, and inflexible repayment terms that might not fit everyone’s financial situation. Consequently, borrowers often explore other lending services to find terms more suited to their specific needs and circumstances.

Pros and Cons of Upstart

Upstart is renowned for several advantages, including its innovative use of artificial intelligence to assess creditworthiness. It allows for a broader approval range and potentially lower rates for borrowers with thin or no credit history, which is a significant benefit. The quick, fully online application process and fast funding are also appealing. However, the service has its drawbacks: It charges origination fees, which can increase the overall cost of the loan, doesn’t allow co-signers, which could help applicants secure better terms, and offers limited repayment term options, restricting flexibility. Additionally, the maximum loan amount may only suffice for some borrowers, making it less suitable for those needing substantial funding.

9 Products Similar to Upstart Loans

A couple working with a financial consultant | Loans like Upstart

While Upstart is a well-regarded online lending platform known for its innovative credit evaluation, it represents just one of many available options. For those seeking alternatives, this list of nine comparable products offers a comprehensive overview of the diverse lending landscape. Each alternative presents its own set of advantages and conditions, encouraging a thorough and balanced consideration. Professionals and individuals alike should explore these options to identify a lending solution that aligns with their financial objectives and requirements.

1. Wise Loan

Lender Details

Wise Loan, established in 2015, is an online lending service specializing in providing short-term personal loans. Our main products are installment loans, which are designed to offer you quick financial assistance with the flexibility of paying over time, typically catering to borrowers with varying credit histories.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$200 to $3,500 (depending on your state)

APR:

299.96% to 799.00% (depending on where you live and your credit rating)

Minimum Credit Score:

N/A

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Flexible qualification requirements
  • Same or next-day funding

Cons:

  • Small loan amounts
  • Only available in Delaware, Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi (returning customers only), Missouri, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin 

2. Avant

Lender Details

Avant, founded in 2012, is a well-established online lending platform that primarily offers unsecured personal loans like Upstart and credit cards. It aims its products at middle-income individuals seeking quick funding and manageable repayment terms, often appealing to those with fair to good credit scores.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$2,000 to $35,000 

APR:

9.95% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score:

580

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • No minimum credit score is required
  • Self-employed income accepted
  • Pre-Approval won’t impact your credit score

Cons:

  • Recently settled a lawsuit with the FTC
  • Low maximum loan amount of $35,000
  • Not available in all states

3. Prosper

Lender Details

Prosper, launched in 2005, is a pioneering peer-to-peer lending platform that connects borrowers with investors, offering personal loans for various uses. Its main products include fixed-rate, unsecured loans, which you can use for consolidating debt, home improvements, and other significant expenses. It caters to borrowers with good credit histories.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$2,000 to $50,000

APR:

6.99% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score:

640

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Fair credit is OK
  • Medical loans available
  • Accepts 50% debt-to-income ratio

Cons:

  • Origination fee of 2.41% to 5%
  • High maximum APR of 35.99%
  • Approval may take up to five business days

4. PersonalLoans.com

Lender Details

PersonalLoans.com, operating as an online lending marketplace since 2001, connects borrowers with a network of lenders offering a range of loan products. Its services include personal, installment, and peer-to-peer loans, providing options for a broad spectrum of credit scores and financial needs.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$250 to $35,000

APR:

5.99% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score:

580

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable APRs of 5.99% to 35.99% are available
  • Flexible repayment schedules of 90 days to six years are available
  • Like Even Financial, you should be able to access PersonalLoans’ services in all states
  • Applying won’t impact your credit score

Cons:

  • Lenders on PersonalLoans site have 1% to 5% loan origination fees
  • Other fees vary by lender

5. LightStream

Lender Details

LightStream, a division of Truist Bank established in 2013, specializes in providing low-interest, unsecured personal loans similar to Upstart for consumers with good to excellent credit. It is renowned for its straightforward application process, no fees, and a wide array of loan purposes, from auto to home improvement. It offers substantial loan amounts with flexible terms.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$5,000 to $100,000

APR:

9.49% to 25.99%

Minimum Credit Score:

660

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Same-day funding
  • Lower APR than Upstart
  • No fees

Cons:

  • Difficult to qualify
  • No prequalification
  • No loans under $5,000

6. Happy Money

Lender Details

Happy Money, founded in 2009, is a financial wellness company offering “The Payoff Loan,” which it specifically designed to help consumers consolidate and pay off credit card debt. It focuses on providing a supportive and educational borrowing experience, emphasizing financial health, and offering competitive interest rates to those with fair to good credit scores.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$5,000 to $40,000

APR:

11.72% to 24.67%

Minimum Credit Score:

640

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable APRs of 11.72% to 24.67% are available
  • Flexible repayment schedules of two to five years are available
  • You don’t have to worry about late payment fees

Cons:

  • Happy Money’s loan origination fee is 0% to 5%
  • You need to borrow at least $5,000
  • You need a more extended credit history than some other lenders
  • You can’t apply if you live in Massachusetts or Nevada

7. Personify Financial

Lender Details

Personify Financial, operational since 2015, provides unsecured personal loans to individuals with less-than-perfect credit, focusing on a more personalized lending experience. Its approach combines innovative technology and consideration of unique personal circumstances to offer flexible terms and payment options, serving those who might not qualify for traditional loans.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$500 to $15,000

APR:

19% to 179.5%

Minimum Credit Score:

550

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Relaxed eligibility requirements
  • Fast funding
  • Low minimum loan amount

Cons:

  • Low maximum borrowing amount
  • Exceptionally high APRs
  • Limited availability

8. SoFi

Lender Details

SoFi, short for Social Finance, Inc., and founded in 2011, has snowballed as an online personal finance company offering a range of products from personal loans to investing and insurance. It’s mainly known for its low-interest personal loans and additional member benefits, including career coaching and financial planning, targeting borrowers with solid credit and high earning potential.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$5,000 to $100,000

APR:

8.99% to 25.81%

Minimum Credit Score:

680

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Competitive rates
  • Flexible loan terms
  • Multiple perks as a SoFi borrower

Cons:

  • Need good credit, 680+
  • High minimum loan amount
  • Turnaround time up to 30 days

9. Upgrade

Lender Details

Upgrade, Inc. is a fintech lender founded in 2016 that offers personal loans, auto refinancing, and credit lines to consumers. Known for its innovative credit tools and consumer-friendly products, it concentrates on providing affordable and responsible credit through a fully digital experience.

Loan Specifications

Loan Amounts:

$1,000 to $50,000

APR:

8.49% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score:

560

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Similar eligibility as Upstart
  • Lower starting APR than Upstart
  • Hardship program to help with payments

Cons:

  • Origination fees as high as 9.99%
  • High starting APR compared to other lenders
  • Requires at least $1000 in free monthly cash flow

Tips for Choosing a Personal Loan

A calculator on a spreadsheet | Loans like Upstart
When selecting a personal loan, it’s crucial to consider a range of factors to find the right personal loan lender, such as Upstart alternatives. Assess interest rates, repayment terms, fees, and the lender’s reputation for customer service. Additionally, consider your creditworthiness, financial needs, and the loan’s purpose. Comparing multiple lenders and understanding their unique offerings can lead to a more informed decision. Researching and considering these aspects ensures you choose a personal loan that best fits your financial situation and goals:

  • Compare APRs: Comparing Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) is essential as it reflects the actual cost of a loan, including interest and fees. This comparison allows you to gauge the overall expense of loans from different lenders, ensuring you find the most cost-effective option.
  • Examine Your Debt: Examining your current debt is vital to assess your financial capacity to take on a new loan. Understanding your debt-to-income ratio helps ensure you can comfortably manage the additional repayments without overextending your finances.
  • Check Your Current Credit Score: Checking your current credit score is crucial before applying for a personal loan, as it significantly influences your loan terms and interest rates. A higher score can lead to better offers, and understanding your credit standing allows you to target lenders that are more likely to approve your application.

Why Trust Wise Loan as Your Lender?

A notebook with the phrase, “Need a loan?” over a black background | Loans like Upstart
Wise Loan stands out in the lending market for its swift funding times, often delivering funds to approved borrowers as quickly as the same or the next business day. This quick access to funds is crucial for those in immediate need of financial assistance. The application process is another strong suit, designed to be user-friendly and accessible, thereby accommodating a wide range of borrowers, including those who may not be tech-savvy. Wise Loan also prides itself on transparency and honesty, providing upfront terms that outline all fees and rates clearly, ensuring borrowers fully understand their repayment obligations. This level of transparency helps build trust and allows customers to make informed financial decisions. Overall, Wise Loan’s commitment to quick funding, accessible applications, and clear, upfront terms positions it as a reliable and convenient option for those seeking personal loans. 

Additional Alternatives to Upstart

Exploring alternatives to Upstart for personal loans can lead to more tailored financial solutions. While traditional loans offer structured financing, other methods may better suit your needs. Options like credit lines, installment loans, or even pawn loans provide diverse ways to manage finances. It’s essential to consider these alternatives, as they may offer more flexibility, lower rates, or different qualification criteria. Understanding the full spectrum of options ensures you make the most informed decision for your financial situation.

  • Home Equity Lines of Credit: HELOCs allow homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home, offering a flexible line of credit at typically lower interest rates. This option provides a revolving credit source that you can use for various needs, from home improvements to debt consolidation.
  • Pawn Loans: These loans provide immediate cash in exchange for valuable personal items as collateral, with the loan amount typically based on a percentage of the item’s value. This short-term option can be ideal for those needing quick funds without the credit checks or lengthy application processes of traditional loans, but it is expensive.
  • Installment Loans: Installment loans offer you a fixed amount of money that you repay through regularly scheduled payments, covering both principal and interest. This alternative provides a predictable repayment plan, and borrowers often use it for significant purchases or to consolidate debts.

Explore Personal Funding Options with Wise Loan

A woman holding two glass jars filled with money | Loans like Upstart
When venturing into the realm of personal financing, thorough research, and due diligence are paramount. Navigating loans similar to Upstart requires a clear understanding of terms, rates, and your financial health. It’s crucial to compare the different offerings meticulously to secure a loan that aligns with your needs and financial capabilities. This careful approach ensures that you commit to a financial plan that is both manageable and beneficial in the long term. In this context, Wise Loan emerges as a compelling option, known for its transparency, quick funding, and user-friendly loan application. As you consider your choices, take the time to explore what Wise Loan has to offer. Discover the products that can cater to your specific financial situation with clarity and convenience. We encourage you to delve deeper into Wise Loan’s offerings and take the first step toward a more informed and financially secure future.
Apply today to see how Wise Loan can help you meet your personal funding needs with confidence and ease.

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.

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About the Author

Eric Bank

Eric Bank

Eric Bank has been writing about business and financial topics since 1985, specializing in taking complex subjects and explaining them in understandable terms for consumer audiences. Eric's writing regularly appears on CardRates.com. Credible.com, eHow, WiseBread, The Nest, BadCredit.org, Zacks, Chron, and dozens of other outlets. A former software engineer, Eric holds an M.B.A. from New York University and an M.S. in finance from DePaul University.

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