Five kinds of bad credit loans, side by side

Collateral, where each loan type is allowed and the largest amount state law permits, with illustrative cost examples. Rules differ by state, so check yours.

BadCreditMD is not a lender or broker. We explain your options; a lending network partner shares requests with lenders, who set their own rates and decide whether to lend. See disclosures.

Loan typeCollateralAllowed inLargest amount state law allowsGuide
Personal loansNone51 of 51$100,000 (Nebraska)Learn how it works
Installment loansNone51 of 51$100,000 (Nebraska)Learn how it works
Emergency loansNone51 of 51$100,000 (Nebraska)Learn how it works
Payday loansA post-dated check or bank access35 of 51$2,500 (Virginia)Learn how it works
Title loansYour car title28 of 51 (+4 restricted)$25,000 (Wisconsin)Learn how it works

Start with your state

Illustrative cost examples

Title and payday loan costs depend on each state's fee rules, so no national example is shown for them. Your state guide has the rules. Start with your state

Installment loans

Representative example

Amount borrowed
$1,000
Annual percentage rate (APR)
29.99%
Repayment
12 monthly payments
Payment
$97.48
Finance charge
$169.76
Total of payments
$1,169.76

Example: a $1,000 installment loan at 29.99% APR repaid in 12 monthly payments of $97.48 costs $1,169.76 in total, including a finance charge of $169.76. Illustration only; your lender will disclose your actual APR, payment schedule and total cost before you accept a loan.

Other ways to borrow

Credit union PALs

Small loans from federal credit unions with an APR capped at 28% under NCUA rules. (12 CFR 701.21)

Credit-builder loans

A small loan held in savings while you pay it off, which can help build a payment history.

Secured credit cards

A card backed by a deposit you make, which can help build credit when you pay on time.

Payment plans

Many utilities, hospitals and lenders offer hardship plans if you ask before you miss a payment.

Find help in your state

Important disclosures

Illustrative range for installment loans: APRs from 5.99% to 35.99%. This range is not a quote; each lender sets its own rates. Your APR depends on your credit, income, state and the lender.

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