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Personal Loans for Bad Credit: Get Approved Today (2025 Guide)
Bad credit doesn't mean no options. Discover how to get a personal loan with a 500–600 credit score, what rates to expect, and which lenders approve bad credit borrowers.
Read the complete article below for general educational information about personal finance and borrowing. Loan terms, eligibility, and approval decisions are determined by individual lenders.
A low credit score feels like a locked door — but there are more keys than you think. Personal loans for bad credit are real, and thousands of Americans with scores under 600 get approved every single day.
What Counts as "Bad Credit"?
Credit score ranges (FICO): - **Exceptional**: 800–850 - **Very Good**: 740–799 - **Good**: 670–739 - **Fair**: 580–669 - **Poor (Bad)**: 300–579
If your score is below 580, you're in "bad credit" territory. Between 580–640 is "fair credit" — and many lenders serve both groups.
Can You Really Get a Personal Loan With Bad Credit?
Yes — but with important caveats:
- **You'll pay a higher APR.** Bad credit borrowers typically see rates from 24.99%–35.99%. It's the cost lenders charge to offset their risk.
- **Loan amounts may be smaller.** You might qualify for $1,000–$15,000 rather than the full $100,000 maximum.
- **Approval isn't guaranteed.** Each lender has its own underwriting criteria. One rejection doesn't mean all lenders will reject you.
How to Get Approved With Bad Credit
1. Apply to Multiple Lenders at Once
2. Add a Co-Signer
3. Show Strong Income
4. Offer Collateral (Secured Loan)
5. Improve Your Score First — Even a Little
What Rates to Expect With Bad Credit
| Credit Score | Typical APR | $5,000 Loan Cost Over 3 Years | |---|---|---| | 620–639 | 24.99%–29.99% | ~$1,950–$2,500 in interest | | 600–619 | 28.99%–32.99% | ~$2,400–$3,100 in interest | | 580–599 | 31.99%–35.99% | ~$2,900–$3,700 in interest |
Always calculate the total cost of the loan (not just the monthly payment) before accepting an offer.
Red Flags to Avoid
- **No credit check" guarantees**: Legitimate lenders always check your ability to repay.
- **Upfront fees before approval**: Reputable lenders take fees from your loan proceeds, not before.
- **Payday loan APRs**: Some "bad credit" products carry APRs of 200%–400%. Personal loans are far better.
- **Pressure to decide instantly**: Good lenders give you time to review your offer.
Start Here: Check Your Options Without Hurting Your Score
Aria Loans uses a soft credit check that doesn't affect your score. You'll see real offers from 30+ lenders in minutes — including lenders that specialize in fair and bad credit borrowers.
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