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Best Banks For Personal Loans: From 6.74% APR

Back to libraryColin Beresford, Jordan TarverApr 25, 2026
Best Banks For Personal Loans: From 6.74% APR

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the personal loans methodology for the ratings below.

  • 9 nationwide banks researched
  • 16 data points evaluated and scored
  • Unbiased editorial team
  • No AI writing

Compare the Best Banks for Personal Loans

COMPANYFORBES ADVISOR RATINGCURRENT APR RANGELOAN AMOUNTSLEARN MORE
5.0
8.99% to 17.99%
$600 to $50,000
Via MoneyLion’s Website
4.4
Rates may vary by ZIP code
$1,000 to $35,000
Via MoneyLion’s Website
4.4
6.74% to 26.49%
$3,000 to $100,000
Via Moneylion's Website
4.3
7.99% to 23.99%
$2,000 to $50,000
Via MoneyLion’s Website
4.3
8.74% to 24.99%
$1,000 to $50,000 for existing U.S. Bank customers and up to $25,000 for new customers
Via MoneyLion’s Website
4.3
9.99% to 17.49%**
$2,000 to $30,000
On Citi's Website

Best Banks That Offer Personal Loans: A Closer Look

Best for Banking with a Credit Union

PenFed

5.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

8.99% to 17.99%

Loan amounts

$600 to $50,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

8.99% to 17.99%

$600 to $50,000

Editor’s Take

PenFed is a credit union with availability across the country and flexible membership requirements.

Why We Like It

PenFed offers a wide range of borrowers the option to borrow from a credit union, operating branches in 13 states.

What We Don’t Like

PenFed doesn’t disclose some of its eligibility requirements, including minimum credit score.

Who It’s Best For

PenFed’s personal loans are best for borrowers who are keen to borrow from a credit union.

Pros & Cons
  • Interest rate cap lower than many other lenders
  • No origination fee
  • Must become a member to qualify
  • No discount for using autopay

Lender details

 Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: Not disclosed
  • Co-signers/co-borrowers: Yes

Funding Speed

Next-day funding may be available. The speed of funding may be longer or shorter depending on what time of day you apply for a loan.

Best for Funding Options

PNC Bank

4.4

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

Rates may vary by ZIP code

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $35,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

Rates may vary by ZIP code

$1,000 to $35,000

Editor’s Take

PNC Bank is a full-service lender that offers personal loans along with checking and savings accounts, home equity loans and other products.

Why We Like It

PNC Bank offers both term loans and personal lines of credit, allowing you to get the type of funding that’s best for your financial situation.

What We Don’t Like

PNC Bank only operates branches in 28 states and doesn’t lend in all 50.

Who It’s Best For

PNC Bank’s personal loans are best for borrowers who may need a line of credit and live in a state where PNC operates.

Pros & Cons
  • Competitive APRs
  • Low minimum loan amounts
  • Ability to submit a joint application
  • Online applications only available to existing PNC customers
  • May need to sign loan documents in person
  • Only available in 27 states

Lender details 

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: Does not disclose
  • Co-signers/co-borrowers: Yes

Funding Speed

Loans may take a few business days to process and get approved. In some cases, you can sign the loan electronically, or you’ll have to visit the branch to sign documents.

Best for Large Loans

Wells Fargo

4.4

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

6.74% to 26.49%

with autopay discount

Loan amounts

$3,000 to $100,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

6.74% to 26.49%

with autopay discount

$3,000 to $100,000

Editor’s Take

Wells Fargo operates branches in 36 states and offers loans to borrowers nationwide.

Why We Like It

Wells Fargo offers borrowers large loans up to $100,000, which is more than many other personal loan lenders. Its personal loans also come with rates as low as 6.99% and charge no origination fees or prepayment penalties.

What We Don’t Like

Although Wells Fargo’s loans are available nationwide, it doesn’t operate branches in every state.

Who It’s Best For

Wells Fargo’s personal loans are best for borrowers who are looking for a large loan and want to bank in person.

Pros & Cons
  • Offers loan amounts of up to $100,000
  • Low minimum APR (6.74%)
  • Average 1-day funding timeline
  • No origination or prepayment fees
  • Requires borrowers to have a longstanding Wells Fargo checking account
  • Charges a $25 monthly account fee (unless waived)
  • No direct payment to creditors
  • No co-signer option

Best for East-Coast Borrowers

TD Bank

4.3

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

7.99% to 23.99%

Loan amounts

$2,000 to $50,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

7.99% to 23.99%

$2,000 to $50,000

Editor’s Take

TD Bank operates primarily on the east coast. The lender has branches in 13 states and Washington D.C.

Why We Like It

TD Bank offers loans between $2,000 and $50,000, and 24/7 customer service.

What We Don’t Like

TD Bank only offers loans in 15 states, primarily on the east coast.

Who It’s Best For

TD Bank’s personal loans are best for borrowers who live on the east coast and in a state where the bank has branches.

Pros & Cons
  • No application or origination fees
  • Prequalification without a hard credit inquiry
  • Funds available in as little as one business day
  • Only available in 15 states and Washington, D.C.
  • Minimum credit score not disclosed
  • No autopay discounts disclosed

Best for Co-Signed Loans

U.S. Bank

4.3

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

8.74% to 24.99%

with autopay

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $50,000 for existing U.S. Bank customers and up to $25,000 for new customers

Depends on the area you live in

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

8.74% to 24.99%

with autopay

$1,000 to $50,000 for existing U.S. Bank customers and up to $25,000 for new customers

Depends on the area you live in

Editor’s Take

U.S. Bank is a lender that offers a full range of services and operates branches in 27 states.

Why We Like It

U.S. Bank doesn’t disclose its minimum credit requirements, but the lender allows for co-signers if you don’t meet the eligibility requirements.

What We Don’t Like

U.S. Bank doesn’t allow noncustomers to access its highest loan amount of $50,000 and longest terms of 84 months.

Who It’s Best For

U.S. Bank personal loans are best for existing U.S. Bank customers and those who may need a co-signer to qualify for the lowest rates.

Pros & Cons
  • Does not charge origination, late payment or prepayment fees
  • Direct payment to creditors is available
  • Offers relationship banking benefits
  • Offers both co-signer and co-borrower options
  • Minimum credit score of 680 required
  • No live chat support option
  • Extended phone hours only (not available 24/7)
  • Average 2-day funding timeline

Best for No Fees

Citi® Personal Loan

4.3

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APR range

9.99% to 17.49%**

Loan amounts

$2,000 to $30,000

Check Rates Arrow

On Citi’s Website

9.99% to 17.49%**

$2,000 to $30,000

Editor’s Take

Citibank is a national personal loan lender that operates branches in 13 states.

Why We Like It

Citibank charges no personal loan fees, including late payment fees, prepayment penalties and origination fees.

What We Don’t Like

Although Citibank lends to residents of any state, the bank only has branches in 13 states.

Who It’s Best For

Citibank personal loans are best for borrowers looking for a loan with no fees and who live in a state where Citibank has branches.

Pros & Cons
  • 0.50% rate discount for automatic payments, lowest advertised rate includes automatic payment discount.
  • Loan terms range from one to five years
  • No origination, prepayment or other fees
  • Low loan amounts
  • Co-signers not permitted

Details

Details:

  • Apply for a personal loan online for up to $30,000
  • Existing customers with an Eligible Deposit Account or a Citi credit card may qualify for up to $50,000
  • Rates as low as 9.99% APR, which includes a 0.5% discount for enrolling in automatic payments**
  • Zero fees – no origination fees, no late fees, no prepayment penalty, and no hidden fees
  • Up to 60 month repayment terms
  • Fast funding – same business day for most customers when deposited directly to a Citi® bank account or within 2 business days when deposited directly to a non-Citi® bank account

Disclosure

**Terms, conditions, and fees for accounts, products, programs and services are subject to change at any time.
You must be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age in Puerto Rico). Co-applicants are not permitted. Existing Citi credit card customers who have been a Citi customer for less than 12 months and do not have a Citi deposit account are not eligible for a Citi® Personal Loan.

If you apply online, you must agree to receive the loan note and all other account disclosures provided with your loan origination in an electronic format and provide your signature electronically.

Rates as of 02-14-2026. Your APR may be as low as 9.99% or as high as 17.49% for the term of your loan. The lowest rate quoted assumes excellent credit, a loan term of 36 or 48 months, and includes a 0.5% APR discount for enrollment in automatic payments at the time of loan origination. Your APR will depend on a variety of factors including your creditworthiness, term of loan, and existing relationship with Citi. Citi offers personal loans with a period of repayment between 12 and 60-month terms. For example, if you borrow $10,000 for 36 months at 15.99% APR, to repay your loan you will have to make 36 monthly payments of approximately $351.52.

Existing Citi banking Relationship Tier customers will receive an additional 0.25% discount to the APR. If you are in default, your APR may increase by 2.00%. Rates subject to change without notice.

To check for offers you may qualify for, Citi conducts a soft credit inquiry. If you are presented with an offer and choose to proceed with the application process, Citi will conduct a hard credit inquiry which may have an impact on your credit score.

Citi® Personal Loan proceeds cannot be used to pay for post-secondary education expenses or for business purposes. Credit cards issued by Citibank, N.A. or its affiliates, as well as Checking Plus and Ready Credit accounts, are not eligible for debt consolidation, and Citibank will not issue payoff checks for these accounts. If you are unsure of the issuer on the account, please visit https://www.citi.com/affiliatesproducts for a list of Citi products and affiliates.

Once approved, Citibank can deposit funds directly into an existing Citibank account the same business day, or within 2 business days when deposited to an external bank account, provided the bank account has not been recently opened. In such instances, Citi reserves the right to reject the bank account as the disbursing account for personal loan funds, and you can select another bank account or select to receive a check by mail, which is delivered generally within 5 business days. 

Eligibility for a loan amount of up to $50,000 is exclusively limited to customers holding Citi credit cards or eligible Citi checking and savings accounts. Loan approval is subject to Citi’s standard credit underwriting criteria and other terms and conditions.

Personal loans are made available by Citibank, N.A., Equal Housing lender

How We Picked the Best Banks for Personal Loans

The best bank for a personal loan is the one that offers the lowest cost and the best terms for your needs. Our team assessed dozens of top lenders across 20 different metrics, including loan rates, credit score requirements and minimum time to funding. We based editorial conclusions solely on information we gathered from providers and through independent research. Advertisers do not influence our ratings. Read our editorial guidelines and the full personal loans methodology.

Read More

How We Evaluate the Best Banks for Personal Loans

  • 40

    Lenders researched

    We chose which lenders to review based on loan volume and availability.

  • 6

    Methodology factors considered

    Cost, loan details, eligibility, customer experience, application process & CSI.

  • 20

    Metrics examined

    Most weight given to Consumer Sentiment Index, eligibility and loan cost.

We analyzed 40 personal loan offers from 40 popular lenders. We started our research by reviewing relevant details about each loan on a lender’s website. Lenders that are not banks were removed. When a lender did not offer loan details required for our analysis on its website, our team utilized phone research and a common script to complete data gathering. We used a secret shopper approach during phone research to get an unbiased understanding of a typical customer experience.

The pie chart below displays the six core factors we considered in our analysis: Loan costs, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience, the application process and the Consumer Sentiment Index. Each of these factors were weighted separately based on our team’s experience reviewing personal loan products and by using personas that helped us determine what the typical consumer may find most important in choosing a personal loan. In the case of personal loans, we believe cost is an overriding factor in a consumer’s decision.

Within each factor, we examined various metrics:

Loan Costs and Details

Lenders who offered minimum APRs below 5% and maximum APRs below 18% scored highest in our analysis. We also considered, among other data points, minimum and maximum loan amounts. We favored loans that offered minimums below $2,000 and maximum amounts above $75,000.

Eligibility and Accessibility

Your credit score is often an important factor in determining whether you’re eligible for a personal loan. For this analysis, we gave the highest scores to lenders who required minimum credit scores under 620.

Customer Experience

The interaction between a customer and a lender should be as seamless as possible. Borrowers should expect to be able to have their questions answered promptly and with little hassle. That’s why we favor lenders who offer live support seven days a week until at least 6 p.m. ET and multiple ways for customers to interact with the company (phone, chat, etc.).

Application Process

We evaluated each provider’s application process—like prequalification options and average turnaround time from application to loan funding. While most lenders we evaluated offer an online application, a few do not. Lenders requiring an office visit earned the lowest scores in our analysis. We also reserved our highest marks in this component for lenders who offer the opportunity for same-day funding.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Finally, we analyzed thousands of opinions and reviews from online forums and summarized how consumers rated each using our proprietary Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI). Lenders were scored up to seven points in four categories: interest rates and fees, customer service, loan terms and flexibility, and ease of approval and process. Overall satisfaction was scored up to 12 points.

Read More

40%
17%
16%
15%
7%
5%

(40%) Consumer Sentiment Index
(17%) Eligibility and accessibility
(16%) Loan costs
(15%) Loan details
(7%) Application process
(5%) Customer experience

How CSI Works

The Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Each lender is assigned an overall CSI score derived from four different components scored on a 7-point scale: interest rates and fees, customer service, loan terms and flexibility, and ease of approval and process. Also included in the overall CSI score is overall satisfaction, which is scored on a 12-point scale.

Read More

Product NameConsumer Sentiment IndexInterest Rates and FeesCustomer ServiceLoan Terms and FlexibilityEase of Approval and ProcessOverall Satisfaction
PenFed

3.23

5/7
3/7
4/7
5/7
5/12
PNC Bank

2.82

2/7
1/7
6/7
5/7
4/12
Wells Fargo

2.86

3/7
3/7
4/7
5/7
7/12
TD Bank

2.78

2/7
4/7
4/7
6/7
7/12
U.S. Bank

2.77

2/7
1/7
4/7
3/7
4/12
Citi®

2.75

4/7
4/7
5/7
4/7
7/12
See full list

Our team has decades of experience in the personal finance space. We’re passionate about helping you make the financial decisions and choose the financial products that are right for your life and goals.

Read More

Colin Beresford
Colin Beresford

Former Staff Editor

Jordan Tarver
Jordan Tarver

Former Staff Editor

Colin Beresford

Colin Beresford

Colin Beresford is a writer and editor experienced in helping people make the best decisions with their money, whether it’s buying a car or taking on a loan. He has written for Bloomberg, The Associated Press, NerdWallet, Car and Driver magazine, among many others covering various financial topics.

Jordan Tarver

Jordan Tarver

Jordan Tarver has spent seven years covering mortgage, personal loan and business loan content for leading financial publications such as Forbes Advisor. He blends knowledge from his bachelor’s degree in business finance, his experience as a top performer in the mortgage industry and his entrepreneurial success to simplify complex financial topics.

How To Compare Personal Loans from Banks

To find the loan that fits your financial needs, it’s best to compare financing options from different lenders. Although lenders often disclose the information you need to compare options, prequalifying with various lenders can give you a better view of the best loan choice for you. Prequalification doesn’t impact your credit score and lets you see the rates and terms a lender may offer you.

Once you’re ready to compare your options, consider these loan features:

  • Annual percentage rate (APR). APR, which includes both interest and fees, represents the total cost of borrowing money. In most cases, lower APRs are reserved for borrowers with high credit scores. Keep in mind that other loan features can be just as essential when determining which lender is best for you. 
  • Terms. A loan’s terms refer to how long you have to repay the loan. Longer loan terms mean lower monthly payments but higher interest costs; shorter loan terms mean lower interest costs but higher monthly payments. A personal loan calculator can help you determine the monthly payments you can afford and, as a result, the terms you need.
  • Loan amounts. Loan amounts vary by lender, so compare lenders based on the amount you intend to borrow. Personal loans typically range from $1,000 to $100,000; however, several lenders may offer smaller or larger loan amounts.
  • Fees and penalties. Late payment fees, prepayment penalties and origination fees are just some of the additional costs lenders add to loans. If you may miss a payment or intend to repay your loan early, find lenders that don’t impose penalties.
  • Perks. Some lenders offer features such as rate discounts for automatic payments or payment deferral if you need forbearance. Depending on your financial situation, these features may set some lenders apart from others. 
  • Availability. Banks that offer personal loans often don’t have branches in every state. If you’re looking for a lender with brick-and-mortar locations, be sure a location is easily accessible.
Pro Tip

Although banks can be a familiar lender type, there are other options available that you can consider to find the best financing choice. There are many reputable online personal loan lenders. In many cases, these lenders offer lower interest rates or fewer qualification requirements compared to banks.

Pros and Cons of Using a Bank To Get a Personal Loan

Before accepting a loan from a bank, consider the pros and cons of doing so.

PROSCONS
In-person customer service is available
May have higher interest rates compared to online lenders
Often reputable lenders
Limited branch availability
Full-service lenders
Often have strict qualification requirements
Can offer relationship discounts
Fewer lender options

Qualification and Eligibility for Loans From Banks

Qualifying for a personal loan from a bank can be more challenging than from other lenders. You must meet the requirements for each of these categories:

  • Credit score. The minimum credit score requirement varies between banks, but many don’t disclose this information. Your approval odds are higher if you have a score above 670.
  • Income. Minimum income requirements vary widely between lenders and many don’t disclose them. In most cases, you’ll have to show that you have a steady, reliable income and can afford to repay your loan.
  • Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Lenders will often use your DTI ratio to determine if you can afford to make additional debt payments. Lenders generally look for a DTI ratio of less than 36%.
  • Location. Some lenders aren’t qualified to lend in all states. Before submitting an application, confirm whether you’re in a state where the lender does business. 

How To Get a Personal Loan From a Bank

Although the qualification requirements for getting a personal loan from banks can be strict, the steps you need to take to apply are typically straightforward:

  1. Check your credit. Step one of getting a loan is understanding your credit score and which lenders you can qualify with. Check your credit report and contact the credit bureaus to correct any errors or information. You can also take steps to quickly improve your credit, if necessary, including paying down existing debt.
  2. Shop around. First, look for lenders where you meet the minimum qualification requirements. Once you’ve determined where you can qualify, identify the lenders that offer the terms and loan amounts you need. 
  3. Prequalify. Before applying, prequalify with any lenders you’re considering. Prequalification doesn’t impact your credit score and can help determine which lender will offer you the best rates and terms.
  4. Submit a formal application. Once you’ve found the lender that’s best for you, gather all the necessary information and apply. Be sure to look for any communication from the lender regarding additional information.
  5. Sign loan agreement. If your loan application is approved, you’ll be sent a loan agreement. Once you’ve signed the agreement, the lender will send your loan funds and you’ll begin repayment.

Related: How To Apply For A Personal Loan In 5 Steps

Pro Tip

Alternatives to Loans from Banks

Although banks can be a safe option to borrow money, there are alternative ways to get the funding you need, including:

Credit unions

Online lenders

Home equity

Credit cards

Cash advance apps

Friends and family

Savings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it better to get a loan from a bank or online lender?

The best loan for you depends on you and your financial situation. Online personal loan lenders often offer lower interest rates and have less strict qualification requirements than banks. However, if you can qualify for a competitive loan from a bank, that may be your best option.

What is the easiest bank to get a personal loan from?

In many cases, banks don’t disclose their qualification requirements. If you’re looking for the easiest bank to qualify for a loan from, look for a credit union where you can become a member, such as PenFed.

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