Written by the MoneyTools editorial team. See our Editorial Policy and Corrections Policy.
MoneyTools does not keep a list of lenders and does not show local offices or maps. Instead, this guide shows you where to look using official directories, and how to check that a lender is legitimate before you apply.
Where to find local and online lenders
Credit unions
Credit unions are member-owned and often serve people who live, work or worship in a certain area. Search by ZIP code with the NCUA credit union locator.
Banks
Look up FDIC-insured banks and their branches with FDIC BankFind. Your own bank may offer better terms to existing customers.
Community lenders (CDFIs)
Community Development Financial Institutions focus on underserved communities. The CDFI Fund publishes a list of certified institutions.
Online lenders
Online lenders may be available in your state even without a local branch. Check that they are licensed where you live (see below) and that their APR and fees are clearly disclosed.
Estimate your monthly payment
Enter a loan amount, rate and term to see the payment, total interest and full schedule.
Open the payment calculatorHow to check licensing and fees
- Search the lender or loan company in NMLS Consumer Access, which lists many state-licensed lenders.
- Contact your state's financial regulator. The CSBS state regulator directory links to each one.
- Look for complaints in the CFPB consumer complaint database.
- Get the APR, origination fee, late fee and any prepayment penalty in writing before signing.
Questions to ask before applying
- What is the APR, and is the rate fixed or variable?
- Are there origination, application or late fees? Is the origination fee taken out of the loan?
- Can I prequalify with a soft credit check?
- What are the available loan terms, and what is the total amount I'll repay?
- Is there a penalty for paying the loan off early?
- Are you licensed to lend in my state?
- How and when will I receive the funds?
Compare before you choose
Get quotes from more than one lender, then compare APR and total cost side by side with the APR calculator and personal loan calculator.
If your credit is limited or damaged, read personal loans for bad credit for warning signs and alternatives. Researching a specific lender? See our guide to comparing Discover personal loans.