Best Bad-Credit Loan Lenders in Virginia
MoneyGeek put together a list of the best loans for bad credit in Virginia based on more than 30 data points. To be considered, a loan provider must lend to borrowers with credit scores below 600. We also looked at rates, fees, maximum loan amounts and other information consumers should know when choosing a lender.
Our analysis shows Upstart and Upgrade are the best lenders for Virginians with bad credit. Regardless, the best lender for you depends on your needs, so be sure to compare your options before deciding.
Best Overall Bad-Credit Loan in Virginia: Upstart
- Upstart
- 3.22% to 35.99%APR Range
- 300Minimum Credit Score
- $1,000 to $50,000Loan Amount Range
- 36 to 60 monthsRepayment Terms
- Next DayTime to Receive Funds
Runner-Up for Best Bad-Credit Loan in Virginia: Upgrade
- Upgrade
- 5.94% to 35.47%APR Range
- 560Minimum Credit Score
- $1,000 to $50,000Loan Amount Range
- 36 to 60 monthsRepayment Terms
- Same DayTime to Receive Funds
How to Choose the Best Bad-Credit Loan in Virginia for You
Virginia's average personal loan interest rate is 9.41% APR with a median personal loan debt of $17,503. When you apply for a bad-credit personal loan or any unsecured loan from lenders, always compare the rates. You'll also want to consider your credit score, current debts (such as your mortgage), income level and more when deciding which lender is best for you.
MoneyGeek analyzed the important steps to take when shopping for a loan in Virginia.
Ask Yourself the Important Questions
Choosing the best loan if you have bad credit can be tricky. Ask yourself the following important questions, then compare your answers to each lender’s criteria to help narrow down your choices.
- How much funding do you need? Different loan amounts may have different payment requirements.
- What’s your credit score? Many lenders consider credit scores when deciding whether or not to offer a loan. The better your credit score, the more likely you will qualify for the lowest rates.
- Can you afford the monthly payments? If you cannot afford the monthly payments on a particular loan, the terms aren't good enough for your needs. Consider taking out another type of loan instead.
- Do you have existing debts? If so, consider consolidating your debts by taking out one personal loan with lower interest rates than your other ones.
- Is your debt manageable through other means? Debt management tools, such as balance transfer cards, short-term loans and debt settlement programs, can be options for those who don't qualify for traditional borrowing.
Do Your Research
To choose the best loan for bad credit in Virginia, you must do your research. Start by looking at each lender's interest rates to find the lowest. You should also consider whether there is an application fee, how much time it will take to process your application and what kind of customer service the lender offers. Always compare lenders to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
Read the Fine Print
Before signing the loan document, carefully review all terms of the agreement, including interest rates, monthly payments, repayment schedule, prepayment penalties, origination fees (if any), late payment fees and more. You don’t want to find out about hidden charges once you’re locked into your bad-credit loan contract. Ask questions if any terms are unclear.
Wait
It's important to wait a day or two before deciding on a lender, as this is a significant commitment. MoneyGeek recommends waiting and researching personal loans from various lenders to help you determine which loan is best for your needs.
Apply
Once you have decided, gather all your materials and apply. Remember that some lenders will request your identification, address verification, proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or bank statements) and other documents. Although applying online may be more convenient for some, there is no harm in calling or visiting the lender if feasible.
What to Do if You Can’t Get a Bad-Credit Loan in Virginia
Lenders in Virginia may decline your application due to a low credit score, an insufficient income or other reasons. But you still have options. Loans are still available for people with bad credit.
MoneyGeek recommends calling or emailing the lender to find out why your application was denied. For example, perhaps your income is too low (though this could be fixed by requesting a smaller loan).
You may also improve your chances of approval by applying for a loan from a different provider. However, before submitting another application, make sure you fix the factor that caused your initial loan to be declined.
MoneyGeek does not encourage payday loans, as they often come with high interest rates and fees.
Calculate Your Monthly Payment
Personal loans are paid back monthly with interest. Use MoneyGeek's calculator to get an idea of your personal loan payment amounts from the top lenders in Virginia. If the amount is more than you're comfortable paying, reconsider getting a loan.
| Month | Payment | Principal | Interest | Balance |
|---|
FAQs About Bad-Credit Loans in Virginia
Getting a bad-credit loan in Virginia can be overwhelming. MoneyGeek answers the most commonly asked questions about bad-credit loans in Virginia to ease the process for you.
Methodology
MoneyGeek evaluated over 30 personal loan lenders using at least 35 data points in six key areas: loan affordability, accessibility, consumer friendliness, customer service, flexibility and lender transparency.
We analyzed several data points within each rating area that bear the greatest weight when selecting a personal loan provider. These elements include APR ranges, accessible loan amounts, minimum credit score requirements, income requirements, application costs and disbursement time.
At MoneyGeek, we value you, the consumer, so we also consider each lender's customer service, company ratings and other features that may make your experience more convenient, like prequalification, payment options and mobile applications.
After deliberation and calculation, our recommendations are made with your best interests in mind. Our personal loan recommendations and professional advice are intended to assist you in making more prudent financial choices when selecting a lender that suits your requirements.
sources
- Upgrade. "About Us." Accessed November 2, 2022.
- Upgrade. "Personal Loans." Accessed November 2, 2022.
- Upstart. "About." Accessed November 2, 2022.
- Upstart. "Personal Loans." Accessed November 2, 2022.
The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the rates mentioned may have changed. We recommend visiting the lender's website for the most up-to-date information available.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, lender or other entity. Learn more about
our editorial policies and expert editorial team.