Last updated: October 9, 2026 · Fact checked ✓
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Personal loan APRs in 2026 run roughly 10–16% for excellent credit and climb from there. Your actual rate depends on your credit score, income, and loan size. Never borrow without comparing at least three lenders.
1. LightStream — 4.8/5
Best for: Lowest rates for good credit
- APR: ~6.49%–24.89% (with autopay; rates vary by source — check current)
- Loan amounts: $5,000–$100,000
- Terms: 2–7 years
- Fees: None — no origination, late, or prepayment fees
Pros
- Among the lowest starting APRs anywhere
- Zero fees of any kind
- Same-day funding available
Cons
- Requires good to excellent credit
- No prequalification with soft pull only
2. SoFi — 4.7/5
Best for: Borrower perks and big loans
- APR: ~6.49%–35.49% (with autopay and discounts)
- Loan amounts: $5,000–$100,000
- Terms: 2–7 years
- Fees: No required fees
Pros
- Unemployment protection and career coaching
- Fast funding — often next business day
- No fees required
Cons
- High top-end APR for weaker credit
- $5,000 minimum is high for small needs
3. Discover Personal Loans — 4.7/5
Best for: No-fee loans with great service
- APR: ~6.99%–24.99%
- Loan amounts: $2,500–$40,000
- Terms: 3–7 years
- Fees: None
Pros
- No origination or prepayment fees
- Top-rated customer service
- Next-day funding
Cons
- $40,000 max is lower than some competitors
- Requires good credit for best rates
4. Upstart — 4.6/5
Best for: Fair credit and thin files
- APR: ~6.30%–35.99%
- Loan amounts: $1,000–$75,000
- Terms: 3 or 5 years
- Fees: Origination fee 0–12% (check current)
Pros
- Considers education and job history, not just credit score
- No minimum credit score
- Fast funding
Cons
- Origination fees can be steep
- Only two term options
5. PenFed Credit Union — 4.6/5
Best for: Credit union rates
- APR: ~6.09%–17.99%
- Loan amounts: $600–$50,000
- Terms: 1–5 years
- Fees: None
Pros
- Low rate cap (17.99%) — rare
- Small minimum loan ($600)
- No fees
Cons
- Must join the credit union (open to most)
- Smaller max loan than online lenders
6. Upgrade — 4.5/5
Best for: Debt consolidation
- APR: ~7.74%–35.99% (with autopay)
- Loan amounts: $1,000–$50,000
- Terms: 2–7 years
- Fees: Origination fee 1.85%–9.99%
Pros
- Built for consolidating credit card debt
- Accepts fair credit (600+)
- Direct payment to creditors available
Cons
- Origination fees on every loan
- High top-end APR
How we picked these
We compared APR ranges, fees, loan amounts, funding speed, and minimum credit requirements across 25+ lenders. APRs shown are ranges — your offer depends on your credit profile. Always check the current rate with the lender before applying.