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What Is a Personal Loan?

A personal loan is generally a fixed-term installment loan. If approved, the borrower receives loan proceeds and then repays the balance over scheduled monthly payments.

How repayment usually works

Most installment loans include a loan amount, a term, an annual percentage rate (APR), and a required monthly payment. The monthly payment is designed to repay both principal and finance charges over time.

What to review before applying

  • The total amount borrowed
  • Your APR and whether fees apply
  • The monthly payment
  • The total of payments over the full term
  • Whether prepayment is allowed without penalty

Common uses

Borrowers may use personal loans for expenses such as debt consolidation, home projects, major purchases, or unexpected costs. Exact loan terms depend on approval, verification, and applicable law.

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Quick overview
Fixed payments
Many personal loans use set monthly installments.
Defined term
Repayment usually happens over a stated number of months.
Common uses
Borrowers may use funds for consolidation or major expenses.