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Advertiser Disclosure

Personal Line of Credit: How to Get A Personal Line of Credit

A personal line of credit gives you instant access to a pool of cash whenever you need it, and you only pay interest on the amount you draw.

Kat Tretina Kat Tretina Edited by Ashley Harrison Updated March 31, 2022

Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we receive compensation from our partner lenders, whom we will always identify, all opinions are our own. Credible Operations, Inc. NMLS # 1681276, is referred to here as "Credible."

If you need to cover unexpected expenses or ongoing projects, a personal line of credit might be a good option. A personal line of credit lets you repeatedly tap into and pay off your credit line, giving you flexibility when you need it.

Here’s what you should know about personal lines of credit and how they work:

  • What is a personal line of credit?
  • Where to get a personal line of credit
  • How a personal line of credit works
  • When to use a personal line of credit
  • Drawbacks to personal lines of credit
  • Using a personal loan as a personal line of credit alternative
  • Other personal line of credit alternatives
  • Beware of predatory lending

What is a personal line of credit?

Like a credit card, a personal line of credit is a form of revolving credit. That means it’s reusable. You’re pre-approved to borrow money when you need it, right up to a predetermined borrowing limit.

When you pay down debt, you have more room to borrow up to your limit again.

Just like personal loans, personal lines of credit may be secured or unsecured. An unsecured line of credit doesn’t require any collateral. But you can often get a better interest rate — and a bigger loan — with secured loans if you use property as collateral.

Revolving lines of credit can be secured by:

  • Your home: If you’re a homeowner, you might be able to tap into your home’s equity by opening a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Just keep in mind that because a HELOC is secured by your home, you risk losing it if you can’t keep up with your payments.
  • A bank savings account or Certificate of Deposit (CD): With this option, you’ll use your savings account or CD as collateral for a line of credit. Because there’s less risk to the lender, you might be able to get a lower interest rate or higher credit limit — but your savings could also be seized by the lender if you fail to make your payments.

This comparison table can help you decide when to use a personal loan, credit card, or personal line of credit.

Best usesLoan amount
Personal loan
  • One-time expenses
  • Debt consolidation
Up to $100,000
Credit cardEssentials$10,000 limit is typical
Unsecured line of creditUnpredictable or ongoing expensesUp to $100,000
Secured line of credit
(CD or savings account)
Ongoing expensesUp to $250,000
Home equity line of credit
(HELOC)
Home improvementUp to 85% of home’s appraised value
(minus first mortgage)

If you decide to take out a personal loan, it’s a good idea to consider how much the loan will cost you over time. You can estimate how much you’ll pay for a loan using our personal loan calculator below.

Enter your loan information to calculate how much you could pay

? Enter the total amount borrowed $
? Enter your annual interest rate %
or
? Enter the amount of time you have to repay your loan years
Total Payment $
Total Interest $
Monthly Payment $

With a $ loan, you will pay $ monthly and a total of $ in interest over the life of your loan. You will pay a total of $ over the life of the loan.


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Where to get a personal line of credit

Personal lines of credit aren’t offered by some big banks, like Chase and Bank of America. But it’s not hard to find a bank or credit union that offers secured or unsecured lines of credit to their customers.

Tip: If you maintain a large balance in your checking or savings account, you could even qualify for a relationship discount or an autopay discount for making automatic payments.

For example, if you already use Citibank for your personal banking, personal finance, or wealth management needs, you might be eligible for a lower rate on a personal line of credit.

Here are some features of personal credit lines offered by banks and credit unions:

Loan amountAnnual or origination feeRelationship discount
Citibank$1,500 to $25,000$50 annual fee
(waived if you take a loan or make a payment)
0.25%
PenFed Credit UnionUp to $50,000Check with lenderCheck with lender
PNC Bank$1,000 to $25,000Check with lender0.25%

How a personal line of credit works

A personal line of credit is a type of revolving credit. This type of credit lets you tap into funds multiple times rather than getting the money as a lump sum.

If you qualify for a personal line of credit, you’ll have access to your money through a draw period, which is a set amount of time you’re allowed to withdraw money from your account.

Draw periods usually last a few years, during which you often have the option of only making minimum payments when you borrow.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to personal credit lines:

  • Draw period: After the draw period ends, you’ll start the repayment period in which you’ll start paying off the full balance and any accrued interest.
  • Interest accrual: Interest charges begin to accrue when you start to withdraw money, and you’ll need to make at least the minimum payments to continue having access to your line of credit.
  • Interest rate type: Personal lines of credit tend to have a variable annual percentage rate (APR), with an initial rate that’s based on your creditworthiness. Typically, the higher your credit score, the lower your APR. Some lenders offer lines of credit with fixed rates, and you might also have the option of converting a variable-rate line of credit to a fixed interest rate later on.

Learn More: Comparing Credit Score Ranges

How to get a personal line of credit

The process for getting a personal line of credit is similar to applying for a new personal loan or credit card. Depending on the lender, you might be able to apply online, at a branch office, or over the phone.

If you’re ready to apply for a personal line of credit, follow these steps:

  1. Review your credit. You’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for a line of credit. A good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher.
  2. Shop around and compare lenders. Be sure to compare as many lenders as possible to find a line of credit that fits your needs. Consider rates, draw periods, and any fees charged by the lender. Many lenders let you check your eligibility and rates with a soft credit inquiry, which won’t affect your credit score.
  3. Gather necessary information and documentation. You’ll typically need to submit your income and employer information to show the lender that you can afford a new credit line. You might also be asked to submit proof of assets, as some lenders require you to have a set amount to qualify for a loan.
  4. Fill out the application. Once you decide which line of credit option you like best, you’ll need to complete the full application and submit your documentation. Keep in mind that before you submit the application, the lender will ask you to authorize a hard credit inquiry, which could take up to five points off of your credit score. This credit score impact usually lasts for only a few months, after which your score will likely bounce back.
Keep in mind: You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to get approved for a line of credit, which means it could be difficult to qualify if you have less-than-perfect credit. While some lenders might still offer lines of credit to borrowers with bad credit, these will likely come with higher interest rates.

If you have poor or fair credit, it might be a better idea to consider another type of loan instead, such as a:

  • Secured credit card: With this type of credit card, you’ll place a deposit that will be both security for the loan as well as the amount of your credit limit. In many cases, card issuers will allow you to switch your secured card over to a standard, unsecured credit card after you make a number of consecutive, on-time payments.
  • Secured personal loan: Unlike unsecured personal loans, secured personal loans require collateral — for example, a vehicle or jewelry. Because there’s less risk to the lender, you could have an easier time qualifying for a secured personal loan compared to other options. Additionally, rates tend to be lower on secured personal loans than unsecured loans.
  • Unsecured personal loan: While you’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for an unsecured personal loan, several lenders offer personal loans for bad credit. Just keep in mind that these loans tend to come with higher rates compared to good credit loans — though your rate might still be lower than what you’d get on an unsecured line of credit.

Check Out: What is a Flex Loan? | Flex Loan vs. Personal Loan

When to use a personal line of credit

A personal line of credit is usually best suited for long-term needs where you don’t have a fixed cost. Here are a few scenarios where a personal line of credit could make sense:

  1. Home renovations: If you’re renovating a home or adding onto a house, you might not know the exact cost of your repairs. Unexpected expenses might also pop up as you start the work. Unlike a home improvement loan (which comes with a fixed amount), a personal line of credit lets you repeatedly draw on and pay off your credit line to cover additional costs.
  2. Seasonal cash flow: If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or business owner who experiences seasonal cash flow variations, a personal line of credit could help tide you over until your income increases. Because you can use a line of credit multiple times, you can use it to pay for necessary expenses when your income dips during your off-season.
  3. Medical expenses: Costs for medical procedures can fluctuate based on your recovery time and needs. A personal line of credit gives you the flexibility to take out money for extra costs that you might not have anticipated.

Learn More: Everything You Need to Know About PNC Student Loans

Drawbacks to personal lines of credit

If you’re considering a personal line of credit, it’s also important to think about potential drawbacks. Here are a few to keep in mind:

  • Higher interest rates: Unsecured personal lines of credit generally have higher interest rates compared to personal loans and other types of installment loans. This means you’ll likely pay more in interest charges over time as you draw on your credit line.
  • Variable rates: Personal lines of credit typically come with variable interest rates, so your rate could fluctuate over time. If your rate goes up, your payments could also increase, which could make it difficult to budget for.
  • Could lead to more debt: Because personal lines of credit give you continual access to funds, you might be tempted to overspend. But once the draw period ends and you have to start making payments, you’ll have to pay interest on whatever amount you used.
Tip: If you need to pay for an expense where you know the exact amount you need, using a personal loan instead of a personal line of credit could save you money on interest over the life of your loan.

Using a personal loan as a personal line of credit alternative

While personal lines of credit can be useful, they’re not for everyone. In some cases, you might be better off with a personal loan.

How does a personal loan work? Unlike a personal line of credit, a personal loan gives you a lump sum of cash that you can generally spend as you wish.

Personal loans also come with fixed payments, interest rates, and repayment terms, so you’ll know exactly when you’ll repay the loan. Most personal loans are unsecured, so you won’t have to worry about collateral.

Generally, a personal loan might be a better option than a line of credit if you have a fixed expense.

For example, if you’re paying for a wedding or want to consolidate debt, a personal loan is likely the better choice since you’ll know upfront how much money you need.

But if you want repeated access to a credit line or have ongoing expenses, a personal line of credit might better suit your needs.

Keep in mind: Ultimately, deciding between a personal loan and line of credit will depend on your individual circumstances and financial goals.

If you decide to take out a personal loan, be sure to consider as many lenders as you can to find the right loan for you. Credible makes this easy — you can compare your prequalified rates from our partner lenders in the table below in two minutes.

LenderFixed ratesLoan amountsMin. credit scoreLoan terms (years)


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.99% - 29.99% APR $10,000 to $50,000Not disclosed by lender2, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 7.99% - 29.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $10,000 to $50,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: If approved, funds sent within 24-72 hours†
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: No
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except CO, CT, HI, KS, NH, NY, ND, OR, VT, WV, WI, and WY
  • Customer service: Phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: None
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, home improvement, wedding, travel, medical expenses, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
9.95% - 35.99% APR $2,000 to $35,000**5502, 3, 4, 5*
  • Fixed APR: 9.95% - 35.99% APR
  • Variable APR: N/A
  • Min. credit score: 550
  • Loan amount: $2,000 to $35,000**
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5*
  • Time to fund: As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except CO, IA, HI, VT, NV NY, WV
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Loan servicer: Avant
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposes
  • Min. Income: $1,200 monthly


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.99% - 15.19% APR $10,000 to $50,0007003, 4, 5, 6
  • Fixed APR: 7.99% - 15.19% APR
  • Variable APR: N/A
  • Min. credit score: 700
  • Loan amount: $10,000 to $50,000
  • Loan terms (years): 3 to 6
  • Time to fund: Next business day
  • Fees: No prepayment penalty
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states
  • Customer service: Phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, home improvement, self-employment, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
8.99% - 35.99% APR $2,000 to $50,0006002, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 8.99% - 35.99% APR
  • Variable APR: N/A
  • Min. credit score: 600
  • Loan amount: $2,000 to $50,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: As soon as 1 to 3 business days after successful verification
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WV
  • Customer service: Phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Loan servicer: Best Egg and Blue Ridge Bank
  • Min. Income: None
  • Loan Uses: Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
6.99% - 24.99% APR $2,500 to $35,0006603, 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Fixed APR: 6.99% - 24.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 660
  • Loan amount: $2,500 to $35,000
  • Loan terms (years): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Time to fund: As soon as the next business day after acceptance
  • Fees: Late fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility:  Available in all 50 states
  • Customer service: Phone
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Loan Uses: Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.99% - 29.99% APR $5,000 to $40,0006002, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 7.99% - 29.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 600
  • Loan amount: $5,000 to $40,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: As soon as 2 to 5 business days after verification
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except MA and NV
  • Customer service: Phone, email, chat
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: None
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation and credit card consolidation only


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
8.3% - 35.89% APR $1,000 to $40,0006003, 5
  • Fixed APR: 8.3% - 35.89% APR
  • Min. credit score: 600
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $40,000
  • Loan terms (years): 3, 5
  • Time to fund: Usually takes about 2 days†
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Loan servicer: LendingClub Bank
  • Min. Income: None
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, paying off credit cards, home improvement, pool loans, vacations, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.99% - 35.99% APR $2,000 to $36,5005802, 3, 4, 5, 6
  • Fixed APR: 7.99% - 35.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 580
  • Loan amount: $2,000 to $36,500
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
  • Time to fund: As soon as the next business day
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except NV and WV
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: $20,000
  • Loan Uses: Home improvement, consolidate debt, credit card refinancing, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
5.99% - 23.99% APR $5,000 to $100,0006602, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
(up to 12 years for home improvement loans)
  • Fixed APR: 5.99% - 23.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 660
  • Loan amount: $5,000 to $100,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7*
  • Time to fund: As soon as the same business day
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except RI and VT
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: No
  • Loan servicer: LightStream
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose
  • Loan Uses: Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
18.0% - 35.99% APR $1,500 to $20,000None2, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 18.0% - 35.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: None
  • Loan amount: $1,500 to $20,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: As soon as 1 to 2 business days after approval
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local government
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.74% - 17.99% APR $600 to $50,000
(depending on loan term)
6601, 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 7.74% - 17.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 660
  • Loan amount: $600 to $50,000*
  • Loan terms (years): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: 2 to 4 business days after verification
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Does not disclose
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: No
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, home improvement, transportation, medical, dental, life events


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
6.99% - 35.99% APR $2,000 to $50,0006402, 3, 4, 5
  • Fixed APR: 6.99% - 35.99% APR
  • Min. credit score: 640
  • Loan amount: $2,000 to $50,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5
  • Time to fund: As soon as one business day
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except IA, ND, WV
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: None
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, home improvement, vehicles, small business, new baby expenses, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.99% - 23.43% APR10 $5,000 to $100,000Does not disclose2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Fixed APR: 7.99% - 23.43% APR10
  • Min. credit score: Does not disclose
  • Loan amount: $5,000 to $100,000
  • Loan terms (years): 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Time to fund: 3 business days
  • Fees: None
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except MS
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose
  • Loan Uses: Solely for personal, family, or household uses


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
11.69% - 35.93% APR7 $1,000 to $50,0005603 to 5 years 8
  • Fixed APR: 11.69% - 35.93% APR7
  • Min. credit score: 560
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $50,000
  • Loan terms: 3 to 5 years 8
  • Time to fund: Within one day, once approved9
  • Loan types: Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchases
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, SC, WV
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
7.96% - 35.97% APR $1,000 to $50,0005602, 3, 5, 6
  • Fixed APR: 7.96% - 35.97% APR
  • Min. credit score: 560
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $50,000*
  • Loan terms (years): 2 to 7
  • Time to fund: Within a day of clearing necessary verifications
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: Autopay
  • Eligibility: Available in all states except West Virginia
  • Customer service: Email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: Does not disclose
  • Loan Uses: Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, home improvement, and other purposes


Credible Rating
Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.
View details
5.4% - 35.99% APR4 $1,000 to $50,00055803 to 5 years4
  • Fixed APR: 5.4% - 35.99% APR4
  • Min. credit score: 580
  • Loan amount: $1,000 to $50,0005
  • Loan terms (years): 3 to 5 years4
  • Time to fund: As fast as 1 business day6
  • Fees: Origination fee
  • Discounts: None
  • Eligibility: Available in all 50 states
  • Customer service: Phone, email
  • Soft credit check: Yes
  • Min. Income: $12,000
  • Loan Uses: Payoff credit cards, consolidate debt, take a course or bootcamp, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes
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All APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | LightStream disclosure | 10SoFi Disclosures | Read more about Rates and Terms

Other personal line of credit alternatives

Opening a personal line of credit can help you deal with unexpected ups and downs in your income and expenses. But a lot depends on your specific situation and needs.

A personal line of credit might not always be the right choice. Here are some situations when you might want to consider an alternative:

If you want to consolidate debt

A personal loan could be a better option for consolidating debt compared to a line of credit.

For example, if you’ve racked up a lot of high-interest credit card debt, you might be able to pay it off with a personal loan at a lower interest rate.

Keep in mind: As long as you don’t keep racking up new charges on your credit cards, you know exactly how much to borrow, so there’s no need to pay more for the flexibility of a personal line of credit.

If you need to do a major home renovation

If you’re planning a costly, major home renovation like an addition or rebuilding your foundation, a home equity loan or cash-out mortgage refinance might be a better choice.

Keep in mind: By putting your home up as collateral, you can get a lower interest rate that may save you thousands in interest. However, this also means your home could be at risk if you can’t make with your payments.

If you need help paying for essentials

If you need short-term help paying for essentials like groceries or child care that usually fit into your monthly budget, pulling out your credit card might save you money.

As long as you pay your balance off in full every month, you won’t see interest charges rack up.

Keep in mind: Another perk is that many credit cards also offer rewards, while a line of credit doesn’t.

If you have unexpected medical bills

If you’ve got an unexpected, one-time medical bill from an unexpected accident or illness, a personal loan can be a better choice.

Since you know exactly how much you need to borrow, there’s no need to pay a higher interest rate for the convenience of a revolving line of credit.

Keep in mind: If you have multiple medical bills, using a personal loan to consolidate them could also help you pay them off more easily.

If you want to buy a car

If you’re looking to buy a car, a personal line of credit likely isn’t the best financing option. Generally, an auto loan is a better choice, especially since you’ll typically get a much lower interest rate.

Keep in mind: If you’re planning to buy an older vehicle, a high-mileage car, or an antique or collector’s car, you might not be eligible for an auto loan. In this case, an unsecured personal loan could be a good option to help you purchase the car you want.

Beware of predatory lending

Unfortunately, there are plenty of predatory lenders and scammers looking to take advantage of people desperate for a loan, especially those with poor credit who have limited borrowing options. Whether you decide to get a line of credit or another type of loan, it’s critical to only work with legitimate, vetted lenders.

Here are some red flags of predatory lending to watch out for:

  • Poor consumer reviews: If the overwhelming majority of reviews for a lender are negative, there’s a good chance the lender is predatory.
  • Seems too good to be true: If a lender pushes you to borrow more than what you asked for, promises to skip a credit check, or otherwise flouts common lending practices, it could be a predatory lender. Trust your gut — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • No mention of APR or fees: A lender should always clearly disclose their rates and terms. Predatory lenders, on the other hand, might try to bury this information in fine print so you don’t realize what you’re agreeing to. In many cases, these predatory loans come with extremely high rates and fees that can trap you in an ongoing debt cycle.
Keep in mind: No matter how much you need a loan, the risks of working with a predatory lender far outweigh any initial benefits.

About Rates and Terms: Rates for personal loans provided by lenders on the Credible platform range between 5.40%-35.99% APR with terms from 12 to 84 months. Rates presented include lender discounts for enrolling in autopay and loyalty programs, where applicable. Actual rates may be different from the rates advertised and/or shown and will be based on the lender’s eligibility criteria, which include factors such as credit score, loan amount, loan term, credit usage and history, and vary based on loan purpose. The lowest rates available typically require excellent credit, and for some lenders, may be reserved for specific loan purposes and/or shorter loan terms. The origination fee charged by the lenders on our platform ranges from 0% to 10%. Each lender has their own qualification criteria with respect to their autopay and loyalty discounts (e.g., some lenders require the borrower to elect autopay prior to loan funding in order to qualify for the autopay discount). All rates are determined by the lender and must be agreed upon between the borrower and the borrower’s chosen lender. For a loan of $10,000 with a three year repayment period, an interest rate of 7.99%, a $350 origination fee and an APR of 11.51%, the borrower will receive $9,650 at the time of loan funding and will make 36 monthly payments of $313.32. Assuming all on-time payments, and full performance of all terms and conditions of the loan contract and any discount programs enrolled in included in the APR/interest rate throughout the life of the loan, the borrower will pay a total of $11,279.43. As of March 12, 2019, none of the lenders on our platform require a down payment nor do they charge any prepayment penalties.

About the author
Kat Tretina
Kat Tretina

Kat Tretina is a freelance writer who covers everything from student loans to personal loans to mortgages. Her work has appeared in publications like the Huffington Post, Money Magazine, MarketWatch, Business Insider, and more.

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Home » All » Personal Loans » Personal Line of Credit: How to Get A Personal Line of Credit

Types of Personal Loans

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Common Personal Loans

  • Personal Loan Rates
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Personal Loan Basics

  • Personal Loan Calculator
  • Where to Get a Personal Loan
  • How to Get a Personal Loan
  • Qualify for a Personal Loan

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