Make a better borrowing decision.

Get a clear view of what is available, what it costs, and what supports your plans.

Find options that fitKnow what comes nextSee total costs

What best describes your situation?

Your credit, income and timing can shape your options. Start with the choice closest to where you are today.

Get cash fastSee ways to cover an urgent expense, when money could arrive, and what each option may cost.Bad creditSee how your credit may affect your options and what to check before you apply.No credit historyExplore ways to borrow when you’re new to credit.Need a large amountExplore options for a larger expense and see what repayment could cost.Self-employedSee how lenders may review income that changes from month to month.Out of workSee what lenders may consider when you don’t have income from a job.

What affects your borrowing options?

Your credit, income and loan choices can change your rate, payment and total cost.

Factor	Why it matters	What to check
Credit	Strong credit may help you get a lower rate.	Check your credit before you apply.
Income	Lenders want to know that you can repay the debt.	Know your monthly income and bills.
Loan amount	A larger loan may be harder to qualify for.	Borrow only what you need.
Loan term	More time can lower the payment but raise the total cost.	Check the payment and total interest.
Fees	Some fees are taken from your funds.	Ask how much cash you will receive.

Ways to borrow money

The right option depends on how much you need, how quickly you need it, and how you plan to pay it back.

Option	May fit when
Credit Card	You can pay for a purchase and clear the balance soon.	See credit cards
Home equity loan	You own a home and need a larger set amount.	See home equity loans
HELOC	You own a home and may need money over time.	See HELOCs
Personal Loan	You need a set amount with regular payments.	See personal loans
Employer-linked advance	You need part of the pay you’ve already earned.	See paycheck advances
Cash advance app	You need a small amount before payday.	See cash advance apps
Credit card cash advance	You need cash from a card you already have.	See card cash advances

Look at more than the monthly payment

A lower payment can cost more if you take longer to pay off the debt. Look at your monthly payment, how long you’ll pay, and the total cost before you choose.

Guidance for borrowing money

Personal loan vs credit card

Common questions

What's the cheapest way to borrow?+

For most people with fair-to-good credit, a personal loan is the cheapest structured option. Cash advance apps are cheaper for very small, short-term gaps.

Can I borrow with bad credit?+

Yes, with steady income there are real options. Applying where you prequalify with a soft check protects your score while you compare.

Not sure which fits?

Answer a few questions and we'll point you to the borrowing strategy that fits your situation.

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