What are personal loans? They are unsecured loans that a borrower obtains for various purposes. This type of loan is often used to consolidate outstanding debt into one monthly payment, but it can be used for other things such as paying for a wedding, a vacation, or something similar. It is an unsecured loan because the borrower doesnt put any assets up as collateral.

What Are The Advantages?

Loans for personal purposes are useful for borrowers who dont have assets to offer as collateral (such as a house) but have a need to borrow money. When this type of loan is used to consolidate debt, for example, the typical result is a reduction in interest being paid plus the convenience of making a single payment to one lender.

What Are The Disadvantages?

Because it is unsecured, this type of loan usually comes with a higher interest rate than other types of borrowing. The lender is taking a greater risk by lending without the security of collateral, so they charge the borrower more to help offset the risk.

Additionally, it often comes with restrictions on how you can spend the money you receive, and the amount you can borrow is usually less than with a secured loan. Again, the bank is taking more of a risk by underwriting an unsecured loan so they want to make sure the money is used for the purpose stated in the loan application.

What If I Have A Poor Credit Rating?

Your credit rating will be a consideration for the lender. The combination of a poor credit history and an unsecured loan is unattractive to many lenders, so if youre in this situation you will likely have to work a little harder to get a loan.

If your purpose for taking out a loan is debt consolidation, though, some lenders are more willing to consider your application because your intent is to reduce debt and get your finances back in order. When in doubt, talk to a loan representative over the phone or in person to discuss your options.

Where Can I Find A Lender?

There is no shortage of lenders who make unsecured loans so you have many resources available to you. If you already have a lending relationship established with your bank or another institution, this is a good place to start. Many lenders are more willing to underwrite such a loan for a customer who has already demonstrated a responsible and timely payment history.

The internet is also a rich source of prospective lenders. Whatever your personal situation, there is probably a lender somewhere out there who specializes in borrowers such as yourself. Make sure you fully understand the fine print of their loan policies and expect to pay a higher interest rate if the lender regards you as a higher risk borrower.

For many borrowers, an unsecured loan is a good choice for their specific circumstances. Whether its debt consolidation, paying for a wedding or some other purpose, if youre considering personal loans its important to check out multiple lenders and look for a lending program that meets your needs.