Why You Can Trust the MarketWatch Guides Team
Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated top personal loan providers
33
Providers RatedOur team researched more than two dozen of the country’s most popular personal lenders, including large online companies like SoFi, big banks like Wells Fargo, and peer-to-peer lenders like Upstart.
660
Data Points AnalyzedTo create our rating system, we analyzed each personal loan company’s disclosures, licensing documents, marketing materials, sample loan agreements and websites to understand their loan offerings and terms.
41
Loan Features TrackedOur team regularly collects data on each company’s loan offerings and terms, such as minimum and maximum loan amounts, origination fees and discounts.
17
Professionals ConsultedBefore we began our research process, we consulted with financial advisors and industry experts to ensure our evaluations covered the banking product aspects that matter most to potential customers.
How Do Lenders View a 550 Credit Score?
Your credit score is a crucial factor when applying for loans, and it plays a significant role in determining whether you’ll be approved for a loan and what interest rates you might qualify for.
Lenders use credit scores to evaluate an applicant’s creditworthiness, and a score of 550 is considered relatively low (often termed “bad” or “poor” credit).
In general, lenders use the following credit score range scale, according to credit scoring company FICO:
| Credit Band | Credit Score |
| Exceptional | 800+ |
| Very Good | 740-800 |
| Good | 670-739 |
| Fair | 580-669 |
| Poor | Under 580 |
However, several factors come into play when lenders assess loan applications with lower credit scores.
Lenders typically consider more than just your credit score when making lending decisions. They often review your income, employment history and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Your DTI compares your monthly earnings with any existing debt (such aslike a student loan or car loan), as well as the loan you’re considering.
If you have a steady income, a stable job and a reasonable DTI ratio, it may improve your chances of getting approved for a loan, even with a lower credit score. Additionally, some lenders specialize in working with borrowers with lower credit scores and may be more willing to extend credit to those individuals.
It’s important to note that different lenders have varying approval criteria. While one lender may hesitate to approve a loan for someone with a 550 credit score, another might be more lenient.
Therefore, shopping around and exploring different lending options can be beneficial if you have a lower credit score. In addition, you might encounter higher interest rates or stricter terms with a lower credit score, so it’s essential to carefully compare loan offers to help ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
What Loans Can You Get With a 550 Credit Score?
With a credit score of 550, you still have some loan options available, although they may come with limitations and higher interest rates.
- Personal loans: Personal loans are unsecured loans that can be used for various purposes, such as debt consolidation, home improvement or unexpected expenses. While getting a personal loan with a 550 credit score is possible, you will likely face higher interest rates compared to borrowers with stronger credit. Lenders might also impose stricter terms, such as shorter repayment periods.
- Secured loans: Secured loans are backed by collateral, such aslike your car or home. Because such loans have collateral to mitigate the lender’s risk, individuals with lower credit scores may find it easier to qualify. Common examples include car title loans and home equity loans. However, you risk losing your collateral if you fail to make on-time payments.
- Specialized bad-credit loans: Some lenders specialize in providing loans to individuals with bad credit. These lenders often offer payday loans, cash advances or installment loans designed for borrowers with lower credit scores. While these types of loans provide a borrowing option, be cautious of the exceptionally high interest rates and fees that often accompany them. Bad-credit loans should be used as a last resort due to their cost.
Remember, with a 550 credit score, you may face limitations on the amount you can borrow, and interest rates are likely to be significantly higher compared to borrowers with good credit. It’s essential to carefully evaluate your financial needs and budget before taking out a loan. You should also explore options for improving your credit score over time to access more favorable borrowing terms in the future.
How To Get a Loan With a 550 Credit Score
Securing a loan with a 550 credit score can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Many lenders consider various factors beyond your credit score, which can significantly influence your chances of approval. Here are several ways you can improve your chances:
- Consider additional factors: Lenders consider factors such as income, employment stability and the purpose of the loan. Having a steady income and a stable job history can demonstrate your ability to repay the loan. Furthermore, the purpose of the loan matters — some lenders may be more inclined to approve loans for essential needs like medical expenses or debt consolidation compared to nonessential purchases.
- Submit a strong application: To strengthen your loan application, provide thorough documentation of your income and employment history. Be prepared to explain any negative marks on your credit report and show how you’ve improved your financial situation. Additionally, consider improving your credit score by paying down debts and managing your finances responsibly.
- Ask a co-signer or offer collateral: If your credit score is a major obstacle to securing a loan, involving a co-signer with a better credit history can significantly enhance your chances of approval. A co-signer agrees to take responsibility for the loan if you default, so choose someone you trust and ensure they understand the potential risks.
Alternatively, you can explore secured loans, where you offer collateral like a vehicle or savings account as a guarantee. This reduces the lender’s risk and may result in more favorable terms.
It’s important to note that involving a co-signer or using collateral carries significant responsibilities and risks. Co-signers are legally obligated to repay the loan if you cannot, which could strain relationships. When using collateral, you risk losing the asset if you fail to make payments. Therefore, carefully weigh your options and ensure you’re confident in your ability to meet the loan terms before proceeding.
How To Improve Your Credit Score
Improving your credit score is a worthwhile financial goal that can open doors to better borrowing opportunities and lower interest rates. To enhance your credit score, it’s essential to understand the key components that influence it, including the following:
- Payment history: The most significant factor in your credit score is your payment history. To improve this aspect, pay all bills and credit accounts on time. Set up reminders or automatic payments to avoid missing due dates.
- Credit utilization: Your credit utilization ratio measures the amount of credit you use compared to your total available credit. Lowering your credit card balances and paying down debts can help reduce this ratio and boost your score. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your available credit.
- Credit mix: A diverse credit mix, including credit cards, installment loans and mortgages, can positively impact your score. If you lack variety in your credit history, consider responsibly adding different types of credit over time.
- Length of credit history: The length of time you’ve had credit accounts forms another portion of your score. Avoid closing older credit accounts, as they contribute positively to this factor.
- New credit inquiries: Be cautious about applying for multiple new lines of credit at once. Opening several new credit accounts in a short period of time can negatively affect your score.
To start improving your credit score, set specific goals for managing your finances. Create a budget to track your income and expenses, allocate funds for paying down debts and establish a savings plan to cover unexpected expenses. Use free credit monitoring services or obtain your free credit reports at annualcreditreport.com to track your progress. As you consistently manage your debts, make timely payments and maintain responsible credit habits, you should see a gradual improvement in your credit score.
Alternatives to Personal Loans
If you’re looking for alternatives to personal loans, there are several options to consider, each with its own features and potential benefits.
- Secured credit cards: Secured credit cards are an excellent option for building or rebuilding credit. They require a security deposit upfront, which serves as collateral. Your credit limit is typically equal to the amount deposited. Using the card responsibly and making timely payments can improve your credit score over time. Secured credit cards can benefit individuals with low or no credit history and can help you qualify for unsecured credit cards and better loan terms.
- Payday Alternative Loans (PALs): PALs are offered by many credit unions as an alternative to payday loans, which often come with high interest rates and fees. PALs, on the other hand, typically have lower interest rates and more reasonable terms. These loans are designed to help individuals facing short-term financial emergencies. To qualify for a PAL, you generally need to be a credit union member and meet specific criteria. A PAL can be a more affordable option for those needing a small short-term loan.
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) loans: P2P lending platforms can provide a potential lifeline for individuals with bad credit, offering an alternative source of borrowing where individual investors may be more willing to extend loans based on factors beyond just credit scores. However, these loans generally come with origination fees that eat into the amount you actually receive.
Exploring these alternatives can help you find a financial solution that aligns with your specific needs and financial situation while potentially saving you money and helping you build or repair your credit.
The Bottom Line
There are opportunities for obtaining a loan even if you have a lower credit score, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential limitations and higher interest rates that may come with it. Options, such as personal loans, secured loans and specialized bad-credit loans, exist, but careful comparison and responsible financial management are essential. Additionally, improving your credit score by paying bills on time, reducing credit card balances and managing debts can open doors to better loan terms in the future.
Furthermore, there are alternatives to traditional loans, such as secured credit cards, payday alternative loans (PALs), credit unions and P2P loans, which may be more cost-effective and accessible, especially for those with lower credit scores. Ultimately, the key is to make informed decisions tailored to your unique financial situation. Assess your needs, budget carefully, explore your options and consider seeking financial advice if necessary. By taking proactive steps and understanding the financial tools available, you can work toward achieving your financial goals while building a stronger financial foundation.
Check out our picks for the best personal loans of 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loans With a 550 Credit Score
The lowest credit score with which you can generally obtain a loan depends on the lender and the type of loan. While specialized lenders may offer loans to individuals with credit scores as low as 500 or even lower, these loans often come with origination fees, extremely high interest rates and strict terms.
More traditional lenders, such as banks and credit unions, typically prefer borrowers with higher credit scores and may have a minimum requirement of approximately 640 or higher for conventional loans.
Lenders specializing in bad credit score loans may be willing to approve loans up to $50,000. These loans will typically have much higher interest rates and origination fees.
The credit score needed to qualify for a $10,000 personal loan will vary depending on the lender. Generally, most lenders offering personal loans prefer borrowers with good to excellent credit scores, which typically start at 670 or higher. However, some lenders specialize in providing loans to individuals with lower credit scores, such as those in the fair or even poor credit range.
If you have a low credit score, it may be easier to qualify for a loan from online lenders specializing in bad credit or payday loans. These lenders may be more lenient in their approval criteria, but it’s essential to be cautious, as they often charge significantly higher interest rates and fees. Additionally, secured personal loans, where you provide collateral like a car or savings account, can be easier to obtain because they reduce the lender’s risk.
Editor’s Note: Before making significant financial decisions, consider reviewing your options with someoneyou trust, such as a financial adviser, credit counselor or financial professional, since every person’s situation and needs are different.
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team ateditors@marketwatchguides.com.
Joyce BertilsonContributing Writer
Joyce Bertilson is a dedicated personal finance writer and educator. In addition to producing marketing content for privately-owned financial brands and professionals, Joyce has spent nearly 40 years as an educator with the past 10 years teaching personal finance classes to motivated high school students determined to lay a solid financial foundation.
David GregoryEditor
David Gregory is a sharp-eyed content editor with more than a decade of experience in the financial services industry. Before that, he worked as a child and family therapist until his love of adventure caused him to quit his job, give away everything he owned and head off to Asia. David spent years working and traveling through numerous countries before returning home with his wife and two kids in tow. His love of reading led him to seek out training at UC San Diego to become an editor, and he has been working as an editor ever since. When he’s not working, he’s either reading a book, riding his bicycle or playing a board game with his kids (and sometimes with his wife).
