Independent, clearly explained guides to US personal finance
6 lenders · editor's ranking
Fair credit — roughly the 580 to 669 range — narrows your options and raises your rate, but it doesn't shut you out. Several lenders specialize in exactly this range, and a few ways to strengthen an application can make a real difference to what you pay.
Prequalify with several of these lenders before you formally apply. Soft-pull rate checks let you compare real offers without any effect on your score.
Lender terms last reviewed October 23, 2026
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| Lender | Best for | APR | Amount | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1Upgrade | Best overall for fair credit | 7.74%–35.99% | $1,000–$50,000 | Visit site at Upgrade (opens in a new tab) |
| 2Upstart | Best for thin credit files | 6.3%–35.99% | $1,000–$75,000 | Visit site at Upstart (opens in a new tab) |
| 3Happen Bank | Best with a co-borrower | 5.96%–35.99% | $1,000–$75,000 | Visit site at Happen Bank (opens in a new tab) |
| 4Prosper | Best joint application option | 8.99%–35.99% | $2,000–$50,000 | Visit site at Prosper (opens in a new tab) |
| 5Avant | Best for lower scores | 9.95%–35.99% | $2,000–$35,000 | Visit site at Avant (opens in a new tab) |
| 6OneMain Financial | Best secured option | 9.99%–35.99% | $1,500–$30,000 | Visit site at OneMain Financial (opens in a new tab) |
Wide credit acceptance, joint applications and direct payment to creditors.
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Looks beyond your credit score, which can help newer borrowers.
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Adding a co-borrower with stronger credit can improve both approval odds and rate.
Official site · not a sponsored link
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Joint applications are accepted and checking your rate won't affect your score.
Official site · not a sponsored link
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Designed for fair and lower credit with next-business-day funding.
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Pledging a vehicle can help you qualify, and you can get help in person at a branch.
Official site · not a sponsored link
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How we compare lenders
We review each lender's published terms and compare them on the four things that matter most to borrowers. Rankings are editorial: partners can't pay for a better position, and any sponsored link is labelled. Lender terms change often, so we show the date each lender was last reviewed.
Published APR range, origination and other fees, and any AutoPay or Direct Pay discounts.
Loan amounts and term lengths, and whether secured or joint options are available.
Which credit profiles a lender serves, and whether you can check your rate with a soft pull.
How quickly funds arrive after approval, and borrower-friendly features like paying creditors directly.
Quick answers
Pay down card balances before applying, add a creditworthy co-borrower, consider a secured loan, and compare several prequalified offers. Even a small improvement in your score or debt-to-income ratio can move your rate.
Only if the alternative costs more — for example, carrying credit card debt at a higher rate. Avoid borrowing for non-essential spending at rates in the 30s, and be wary of payday and car title loans, which are typically far more expensive.
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APR ranges, fees and terms are as published by each lender and were last reviewed on the date shown. They can change at any time and may vary by state. Your rate depends on your credit profile. This page is general information, not financial advice.
Before you borrow