It has happened to all of us, both holders of good and bad credit. We have an unexpected expense. The car throws a rod, the refrigerator turns into a mold factory, an expensive new prescription is needed to treat an unforeseen medical problem. Perhaps a bill you have set aside is suddenly due – in full! These unfortunate demands and other situations crop up every day in life and sometimes the only way to get rid of them is to throw money at them. You might find that money by taking out a personal loan for people with bad credit.
Credit histories and incomes come under scrutiny
You must pull your credit reports. You need to investigate each thoroughly. Typically there are mistakes. You should have them removed from your reports, but keep in mind that this can take 1-3 months to complete. So prepare before you buy your personal loan for people with bad credit. Keep in mind, however, that your scores are not always the deciding factor. More important to these lenders is your debt to income ratio. Lenders will want to know about your current obligations and income. You want to be sure you have enough money left over to pay off another debt.
Two types of private loans for people with poor credit scores
When you apply for your personal loan for people with poor credit, you'll find that most lenders offer two options – secured and unsecured. Secured loans are those in which the borrower offers collateral or valuable property to secure the loan. If you default on the loan, the lender can seize the property and use the proceeds to cover the cost of the loan. Interest rates are often much lower because of this assurance.
With secured personal loans, the collateral can be a home or other property, stocks and bonds, or even a late model car. Ask potential lenders what type of property they will accept. Unsecured loans have nothing to back them up except your spoken promise and your signature on the dotted line. To compensate for the increased risk, the lender is required to charge higher interest rates on your personal loan for people with bad credit.
Predatory lenders
Never accept the first offer that comes along. One good offer means there are probably two others that are even better. Personal loans from traditional lenders (for those who can get them there) as well as from private lenders have the highest interest rates by law than for any other type of loan, regardless of whether the borrower has a good or bad credit score. The better your credit rating, the lower your interest rates will naturally be. Don't fall for predatory lenders.
If someone says they are doing you a favor because of your credit score, walk away immediately, they are out to get you with high interest rates and exorbitant fees. Once you've selected four or five lenders whose terms you like, research each company thoroughly. Try out the Better Business Bureau's online listings. Always read the fine print. No question is a stupid question. Thoroughly understand the terms of your personal loan for people with bad credit.
Credit Repair Options
Another good thing about personal loans for people with poor credit is that they offer the opportunity to add some luster to your credit history. You should make sure that you make each payment on time and in the amount prescribed in your contract. If you continue to do this even with small loans, your credit score will immediately and even dramatically increase.