With so many financing options to choose from, it can get confusing when deciding between two basic borrowing options: personal loans and lines of credit.
Each works a bit differently from the other and has its own advantages and disadvantages. Read our guide to learn how you can make the best decision for your financial situation — and potentially save lots of money in interest and fees.
Line of credit vs loan: 6 differences
Loan term. Personal loans have a predetermined term length, usually between one and seven years. They’re paid back in full by the end of that term and the loan closes. Lines of credit don’t come with a set repayment period, and the funds you borrow become available again after they’re repaid (plus interest). It essentially can stay open.
Repayments. Both involve monthly repayments. However, personal loans have fixed monthly repayments while lines of credit depend on the previous balance, amount drawn, accruing interest and other factors.
Time of disbursement. With personal loans, your lender will disburse your funds upfront as soon as you agree to the loan contract and sign it. With lines of credit, you’re able to withdraw up to your approved limit on an ongoing basis, as long as you’re meeting minimum monthly repayments.
Fees. Personal loans usually charge monthly service and application fees, while lines of credit usually charge annual service fees. However, lenders for both personal loans as well as lines of credit may charge a variety of other hidden fees. Make sure you’re aware of all fees for any option you’re considering.
Borrowing amounts. With a personal loan, you’re given a lump sum of money that you have to pay back in full. Lines of credit come with a borrowing limit instead — similar to a credit card. This means you can take only what you need, when you need it, but still have access to the full limit.
Costs. Being able to borrow only what you need can make lines of credit less expensive. This is because you’re on the hook for less money, and therefore less interest — even if your rates are higher than a personal loan.
Personal loans provide your funds upfront and stipulate an agreed time period to pay back your loan (called the “loan term”). Interest is charged on the entire duration of your loan term and on your entire loan amount. In general, most personal loans involve the following features:
Upfront lump-sum. Once the lender approves your application and you agree to the loan contract, you’ll receive all your funds at one time.
Interest rate. Your lender will charge either a fixed interest rate that won’t change over the term of your loan, or a variable interest rate which can rise or fall depending on market rates.
Term. The period over which you’ll be making repayments to fully pay back the loan is called the loan term. It usually ranges from one to seven years.
Discount rates. Your lender may offer you a limited time discount if you take out a significant loan amount.
Flexible repayments. Depending on your lender, you may be able to choose exactly how and when you’ll be making monthly repayments.
Line of credit
Lines of credit have a maximum credit limit, and you’ll only be charged interest on the funds you actually use. Repayments are made monthly, but there’s no fixed “term” for a line of credit. As long as you’re making your minimum monthly repayments, your funds will always be available to you.
Option to increase maximum credit limit. Your lender may provide an option to increase the maximum credit limit in line with your specific needs.
Flexible withdrawals. You’ll be able to withdraw funds from your line of credit whenever you like, as long as it doesn’t exceed your maximum credit/daily limit.
No fixed repayments. As long as you’re making a minimum required monthly payment (a percentage of withdrawn funds), there’s no fixed repayment amount.
Interest rate. Interest is paid monthly and is only charged on the amount you borrow.
Compare personal loans
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Compare lines of credit
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Which borrowing option is better suited for you?
Lines of credit are helpful for those who require an ongoing source of funding to be used when they see fit. Since lines of credit are revolving, you won’t be charged on funds you don’t withdraw, making them an excellent option for backup or emergency sources of funding.
Since interest rates could get expensive for lines of credit, they are suited to those looking for flexibility with their credit and an ongoing source of funds for purchases such as paying bills, consolidating short-term debt and home renovations.
Ultimately, a personal loan is suited to someone who wants structured repayments and an initial lump sum paid to them at the beginning of the loan term. A personal loan is appropriate for those looking to make large purchases such as paying for a wedding or vacation using that lump sum. Also, a personal loan can be beneficial for those looking to consolidate a large amount of debt.
Compare personal loans to even more borrowing options
Personal loan vs. RRSP loan
Frequently asked questions
If you’re looking to use the funds for one large expense, then you might be better off with a personal loan. If you want an ongoing source of funding, then a line of credit might be more suitable.
Whichever option you consider, make sure you’re well aware of how much your monthly repayments will be. Some people are tempted to use a line of credit simply because it’s there. If this could be a problem for you, you may want to consider the structured features of personal loans since they offer fixed repayment schedules, giving you consistency and balance.
Personal loans can come in amounts as large as $35,000, sometimes higher, with some lenders offering six-digit loans as well. On the other hand, not many lenders approve small amounts for personal loans but do so for lines of credit. Very large lines of credit are also available, but you’ll need to meet strict eligibility criteria.
Leanne Escobal is a publisher for Finder. She has over 11 years of experience in financial services, specializing in content and marketing. Leanne has completed the Canadian securities course (CSC®) as well as the personal lending and mortgages course by the Canadian Securities Institute. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English literature and creative writing from Western University.
Learn more about the interest rates and fees you’ll pay, and how they affect the cost of your personal loan.
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