Best Personal Loans of 2025: Top Picks for Every Credit Score

How to compare personal loan rates and terms across lenders, and what to check before you apply.

Personal loans are one of the most flexible financial tools available — use them for debt consolidation, home improvements, medical bills, or any major expense. But with dozens of lenders competing for your business, finding the right one takes research. Below are five widely used online lenders and what each is known for. Rates change often, so check each lender’s site before you apply.

Best Personal Loans at a Glance

• SoFi — Best overall, no fees, up to $100,000
• LightStream — Low rates for excellent credit
• Upgrade — Best for fair credit (580+ score)
• Marcus by Goldman Sachs — Best for no-fee experience
• Discover Personal Loans — Best for flexible repayment

1. SoFi — Best Overall

SoFi consistently tops our list for personal loans. With APRs starting at 8.99%, no origination fees, and loan amounts up to $100,000, it offers an exceptional package for borrowers with good-to-excellent credit. Their unemployment protection benefit — which pauses payments if you lose your job — is a standout feature no other major lender offers.

2. LightStream — Low Rates for Excellent Credit

LightStream (a division of Truist Bank) is known for low APRs for borrowers with excellent credit and charges no fees. It runs a Rate Beat Program for qualifying applicants. Same-day funding may be available, and terms up to 12 years for certain loan purposes.

How to Choose the Right Personal Loan

When comparing personal loans, look beyond the advertised rate. The APR — which includes fees — is the true cost of borrowing. Check the origination fee (some charge up to 10%), prepayment penalties, and whether the lender does a hard or soft credit inquiry during the application process.

What Credit Score Do You Need?

• 720+ (Excellent) — Qualify for the lowest rates, best terms
• 680–719 (Good) — Most top lenders, competitive rates
• 620–679 (Fair) — Fewer options, higher rates
• 580–619 (Poor) — Limited lenders, consider credit unions
• Below 580 — Secured loans or credit-builder products recommended

Bottom Line

The best personal loan depends on your credit score, loan amount, and how quickly you need funds. Many lenders let you check your rate with a soft credit pull, which does not affect your credit score, so check several before you apply.