Approval
Can You Get a Loan With Bad Credit?
Yes — but with conditions. Here's how to borrow safely when your score is below 600.
Bad credit narrows your options but does not eliminate them. The key is choosing a path that actually rebuilds your credit instead of digging the hole deeper.
Credit-union personal loans
Federal credit unions cap APRs at 18% and often run 'payday alternative loan' programs designed for members with thin or damaged credit.
Secured personal loans
Pledging collateral — a car, a savings account — dramatically improves your odds and your rate. You take on real risk if you default, so borrow only what you can comfortably repay.
Co-signers
A co-signer with strong credit can unlock approval and better rates. Both parties are equally on the hook, so this should only happen between people who trust each other and have talked through the worst case.
What to avoid
Payday loans, car-title loans, and 'no credit check' installment loans with APRs above 100%. They almost always make your situation worse.
