Do you have bad credit but still need a loan? There are options available.
If you have a low credit score, trying to find a loan can be difficult. Minimum credit score requirements can put conventional loans from banks out of your reach, but there are short-term loans for people with bad credit you can apply for.
Find out your options in our guide below.
Check into Cash Loans
Check into Cash allows you to directly apply for a payday loan and have your cash when you need it.
- Min. Loan Amount: $50
- Loan Term: Varies by state
- Turnaround Time: 1–2 business days
- Total Costs: Varies depending on the amount and your state of residency.
- Must be 18+
- No security needed
- Confidential and secure!
How can I get a loan with bad credit?
Short-term lenders are more concerned with your ability to repay than with your credit history. Applying for one of these loans is simple. Either go online to a lender website or visit a storefront near you. The applications are usually quick, and when you’re approved, you can have your funds in as little as one business day.
Keep in mind these crucial steps before you apply to save yourself time and money.
- Compare your options. There are quite a few options available so it’s important to compare them and find the one that best fits your needs. You’ll want to look at the loan amount, repayment terms and the total cost in order to find a loan that meets your needs.
- Review the eligibility criteria. While these lenders do accept applicants with bad credit, they still have criteria that needs to be met. Check the minimum age, income and residency requirements to avoid being rejected.
- Only apply for how much you can afford. Although lenders can’t offer you more than you can pay for, the terms may still be difficult if the repayment period is short. You should determine what you can manage and find a loan that works with your budget.
- Budget to cover your payments. When you’re approved for a loan, your repayments will generally start on your next payday so make sure you’ve budgeted to cover the added expense.
A selection of loans you can apply for with bad credit
Here are some loan providers that you can apply to. Note that the maximum loan amount is based on the lender’s maximum amount and will vary based on your state of residence. Check the websites of any providers you’re interested in to confirm they operate in your state.
A selection of lender-matching services you can apply with
These lender-matching services are not lenders, loan brokers or agents for any lender or loan broker. They focus on trying to match you with a lender that might be able to provide you the funds you seek. Note that the maximum loan amount is based on the lender’s maximum amount and will vary based on your state of residence. If you proceed with one of these services, confirm that the lender is reputable by checking with your local government.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of a bad credit payday loan?
When taking out a short-term loan, consider these points before applying.
- Easy online application. You can compare lenders online and submit your application within minutes. There’s no need to visit a physical branch or fax copies of your paycheck.
- Quick turnaround. When you apply online, you can have your loan deposited into your bank account in as little as one business day.
- Disreputable lenders. Not all lenders follow state laws. Check to make sure yours is licensed and isn’t a scam.
- Short repayment terms. Payday loans are known for being costly because of their quick repayment schedule. Be sure you can comfortably afford payments before you apply.
Amanda's emergency car repair
Amanda’s car broke down on her way to work. She took the morning off to visit the mechanic, who estimated her repair costs at $250. As a shift worker, she had already missed out on that morning’s pay and her paycheck wasn’t due to come until the following week.
She needed her car repaired to get to work, but with her low credit score, she wasn’t eligible for a personal loan.
Instead, Amanda looked at how much a bad credit payday loan would cost her. There was room in her budget for the high fees, and since she was going to be paid soon, Amanda knew she could afford it. By the next day, she had enough to pay for the repairs and was able to pull an extra shift to make up the difference.
What other options do I have for a loan?
Depending on what you need the loan for and how much you want to borrow, there are other loan options available:
- Auto title loan. If you have a car, you could get an auto title loan. The loan is secured against the title, so you can get a lower rate while still being able to drive your vehicle as you repay the loan.
- Installment loan. These loans are similar to short-term loans, but they are repaid in installments over a longer term. These loans could be an option for you if short-term loans are banned in your state.
Didn’t find a loan that fits your needs? There are alternatives.
How to apply
Once you find a lender, make sure you’re eligible for the loan by reading our review pages.
Eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old (varies by state)
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident
- Have a steady source of income
Required information:
- A valid form of ID
- Your contact details
- Proof of income
- Your bank account details
Bottom line
Consider a bad credit payday loans if your credit is less-than-perfect. Always compare your options before you submit your application.
Are payday loans available in my state?
I recieve a benefit check each month and work full time.I live in Arkansas and need to know if I can get an installment loan.My credit score is only 517. I need a loan desperately to get my bills caught up Any advise?
Hi Cathey,
Thanks for leaving a question on finder.
If you have low credit since and you are from Arkansas, the only lender who can help you is BadCreditLoans.com. To start your application, please click HERE.
To be eligible for this loan here are the criterias:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Provide proof of citizenship, such as a Social Security number, or legal residency.
– Have a regular income, either from full-time employment, self-employment, or disability or Social Security benefits.
– Have a checking account in your name.
– Provide work and home telephone numbers.
– Provide a valid email address.
Since you receive pension, whether it’s an employer retirement benefit or Social Security, you are eligible for loans HERE.
Once you have decided on the suited loan for your needs, you may click on the green ‘Go to site’ button to submit your application or know more about the loan offer.
Cheers,
Joel
I have very bad credit and receive SSI benefits.Every place keeps deny me. I am looking for a installment loan of $500 for a emergency situation. I have direct deposit, could you point me in the right direction plz?
Thanks
Hi Rhonda,
Thanks for leaving a question on finder.
If you rely on a pension, whether it’s an employer retirement benefit or Social Security, you may find your loan options somewhat limited. That’s because many lenders require you to have a steady job to be eligible.
You do have some options, however. We take you through what those are and show you how to compare these options so you can choose the right loan for you. Please click HERE to compare and be guided.
Cheers,
Joel
Hello, I have a few questions about a payday loan. My credit isn’t the best. Which site is the best legitimate one to use?
Hi Krystin,
Thanks for your inquiry. Please note that we are not affiliated with any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.
You’re actually already on the correct page for payday loans for people with bad credit. Please select your state and it will show you a list of loans that you can compare.
Please click the name of your preferred lender to find out the details and the minimum eligibility. You may then click the green “Go to Site” button to submit your loan application online.
We cannot recommend a specific loan or what is the best. All loans that are listed on our site are legit and safe.
Best regards,
Rench
How can I get a loan with bad credit and no bank account. I get SSI monthly on a debit card direct deposit.
Hi Alicia,
Thanks for your inquiry.
No bank account? No problem. Get a loan without a checking or savings account. Please check out this page.
Hope this information helped.
Cheers,
Arnold
I don’t have a bank account, but I have a prepaid debit card all I need is $100.I do recieve SSI each month, I have direct express. Can I please get help with a loan
Hi Patricia,
Thank you for your inquiry.
You may want to consider a prepaid debit card payday loans. You can loan from a minimum amount of $50, but please keep in mind that the max loan amount may vary depending on the lender. You can review and compare your options here.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
Is it possible to get a loan after bankruptcy without waiting 2 yrs
Hi Sue,
Thank you for your inquiry.
During your bankruptcy or after you’re discharged, you may find yourself in need of a loan. But are there lenders who’ll be willing to consider you for a second chance. You may want to consider the options available here.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
I have a job..my money is on a card from my job..I DO NOT HAVE MT OWN PERSONAL Account with this company except a prepaid card separately from this job..but I would prefer for the money to come from my jobs Debit card account set up from me to guarantee that the pay day loan is paid weekly from my job…can I get a loan with this information? Please help me to stop putting in all my personal information to these loan companies please.
Hi Martha,
Thanks for your question.
The lenders on this page may consider you for a loan even if you don’t have a personal bank account.
Before submitting your application, kindly review the eligibility criteria of the loan and check with the lender if the particular prepaid card you have meets their criteria.
Cheers,
Anndy
I need a loan without a checking account I have a prepaid card.
Hi Sandra,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Most lenders require that you have a checking account, as this makes it easy to check your credentials. However, you can find some lenders that offer cash loans to customers without bank accounts. You can check the list of offers here.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
I have a tax garnishment on my pay check with approximately $900 left to pay.how can I get a small emergancy payday loan on a New Visa gold card or new netspead Master card Debit card with no checking account
Hi Jerry,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Here’s how you can get an emergency loan.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
Where do I get a loan with no bank account or with a prepaid card from Rush?
Hi Terry,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Here’s an option where you can check the list of lenders that allow’s borrower even without a bank account.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold