MoneyGeek’s Pick on Best Personal Loan Lender in Missouri: LightStream

MoneyGeek analyzed several lenders using over 30 factors to determine the best lender for various categories of borrowers. We researched and selected lenders based on BBB rating, interest rates, loan terms, loan fees and other convenience factors like online application and mobile app availability.

Best Overall Personal Loan Lender in Missouri: LightStream


  • LightStream

    • 4.49% to 20.49%APR Range
    • 660Minimum Credit Score
    • $5,000 to $100,000Loan Amount Range
    • 24 to 84 monthsRepayment Terms
    • Same DayTime to Receive Funds

    on LightStream Website

Best Personal Loan Lender for Bad Credit in Missouri: 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

    on Upstart Website

Best Personal Loan Lender for Good Credit in Missouri: SoFi


  • SoFi

    • 5.74% to 20.28%APR Range
    • 680Minimum Credit Score
    • $5,000 to $100,000Loan Amount Range
    • 12 to 60 monthsRepayment Terms
    • Two DaysTime to Receive Funds

    on SoFi Website

Best Personal Loan Lender for Debt Consolidation in Missouri: 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

    on Upgrade Website

Best Personal Loan Lender for Home Improvement in Missouri: Best Egg


  • Best Egg

    • 4.99% to 35.99%APR Range
    • 700Minimum Credit Score
    • $2,000 to $50,000Loan Amount Range
    • 36 to 60 monthsRepayment Terms
    • Next DayTime to Receive Funds

    on Best Egg Website

How to Choose the Best Personal Loan Lender in Missouri for You

When applying for a personal loan, you will likely be choosing from a variety of lenders. An excellent place to start when applying for a loan is considering your credit score, income and current debts. The average personal loan debt in Missouri is $14,625, and people use these loans to pay off debt, buy a car, finance medical expenses and more. MoneyGeek outlines some steps to take when applying for a personal loan in Missouri.

1

Ask Yourself the Important Questions

Before you apply for a personal loan, it is smart to ask yourself if you really need a personal loan. If you want funding to pay for a large purchase, consolidate your bills or renovate your home and meet specific requirements, you may want to take on a personal loan. However, before taking out a personal loan, consider how much money you need, your credit score, your existing debt and whether you can afford payments after accounting for your other financial obligations.

2

Do Your Research

Researching your options and understanding what’s best for you and your situation can save you time, hassle and money. It’s important to compare lenders before applying for a loan, as there are plenty of great options. Don’t go with one lender because it has a flashy website or slick advertising campaigns; do your research and shop around to find the best rates.

For example, the APR rate determines how much you pay back over time, so it is important to compare rates from multiple lenders before applying for a loan. A personal loan can take two to four years to pay off.

MoneyGeek provides you with an unbiased review of the best personal loan lenders to help you find a good fit. However, your unique situation may mean a different option is better for you, so it’s good to do your own research.

3

Wait

A personal loan is a big commitment, so it is important to take your time and think carefully about what you need. Read the small print to understand all the factors before making your choice. When you settle on a lender, you may want to wait a few days before applying. This will give you enough time to do more research and think critically before committing yourself.

4

Read the Fine Print

Before you sign up for a personal loan, find out what fees come with it. Some companies charge early payoff penalties or origination feesr. When choosing a lender, investigate their record of customer service. You should find out whether they are easy to contact by phone and respond to emails promptly. Look at reviews from current and former customers who shared their experiences interacting with the lender for insight.

5

Apply

When you're satisfied that your lender is a good fit, it's time to fill out an application. Most lenders require personal information before they can approve your loan, so it’s smart to plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need. They will need identity, address verification and proof of income information during the application process. Don’t hesitate to ask about anything that seems off or confusing. A brief phone call or, if feasible, a visit to the lender could save time and effort.

What To Do if You Can’t Get a Personal Loan in Missouri

Personal loan applications are not always approved and this can happen for a number of reasons. It’s possible your credit score isn't high enough, or you haven't had a consistent source of income for long enough for your lender. If your personal loan application is turned down, you may contact the lender by phone or email to find out why.

You may apply for a loan at another company, but it’s smart to first improve whatever factor caused your prior loan to be declined.

A payday loan may be a tempting source of fast cash, but may be a bad decision. These loans have several drawbacks. Their interest rates are usually high and the repayment terms are generally very short.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Loans in Missouri

Personal loans may be used for urgent and non-urgent expenses, such as unexpected medical expenses or home repair projects. If you're applying for a personal loan in Missouri, lenders will consider various factors, including your credit history, current income, monthly expenses and more to make a decision. MoneyGeek answers some of the most common questions about personal loans in Missouri.

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METHODOLOGY

We reviewed more than 30 personal loan lenders using 35+ individual data points across six key categories: loan affordability, accessibility, consumer friendliness, customer service, flexibility and lender transparency.

Within each ranking criteria category, we considered several individual data points that we feel carry the most weight when choosing a personal loan lender within each ranking criteria category. These factors include APR ranges, available loan amount, minimum credit score, minimum income amount, application fees and disbursement time.

Here at MoneyGeek, we value you, the consumer, so we also factor in each lender’s customer support, business ratings and additional features that could make your experience easier and more accessible — like prequalification, payment options and mobile apps.

After careful consideration and calculation, our picks are decided and chosen with your best interest in mind. Our personal loan recommendations and expert tips are meant to help you make the best decision when choosing a lender that meets your needs.

sources
  • LightStream. "LightStream." Accessed March 7, 2022.
  • Upstart. "Upstart." Accessed March 7, 2022.
  • SoFi. "SoFi." Accessed March 7, 2022.
  • Best Egg. "Best Egg." Accessed March 7, 2022.
  • Upgrade. "Upgrade." Accessed March 7, 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.