An unsecured loan does not require collateral — you do not need to put up your home, car, or savings as security. Lenders approve you based on creditworthiness, income, and financial history. Personal loans, credit cards, and student loans are all common types.
Below are the top lenders for unsecured personal loans.
| Lender | APR range | Loan amounts | Collateral |
| SoFi | 7.99% – 29.99% | $5,000 – $100,000 | None |
| Marcus | 6.99% – 24.99% | $3,500 – $40,000 | None |
| Upgrade | 6.94% – 35.97% | $1,000 – $50,000 | None |
| Best Egg | 8.99% – 35.99% | $2,000 – $50,000 | None |
| LightStream | 7.49% – 25.49% | $5,000 – $100,000 | None |
| Prosper | 6.99% – 35.99% | $2,000 – $50,000 | None |
Types of Unsecured Loans
Personal Loans
The most common type of unsecured loan. You receive a lump sum and repay it in fixed monthly installments over 24 to 84 months. Can be used for debt consolidation, home improvements, medical bills, and major purchases.
Credit Cards
A form of revolving unsecured credit. You can borrow repeatedly up to your credit limit. However, interest rates are typically much higher than personal loan rates.
Student Loans
Most federal and many private student loans are unsecured. Designed for education expenses with lower rates and flexible repayment.
Lines of Credit
Similar to a credit card but typically with lower rates. You have a set limit and only pay interest on what you borrow.
Unsecured vs. Secured Loans
Secured loans require collateral (your home, car, etc.) which the lender can seize if you default. Unsecured loans have no collateral — higher rates but no risk to your assets, faster approval, and simpler applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for an unsecured personal loan?
Most lenders require 580-660. Upstart accepts scores as low as 300 using AI evaluation.
What happens if I default on an unsecured loan?
The lender cannot seize your assets, but they can send your account to collections, damage your credit score, and potentially sue for the balance.
Can I get an unsecured loan with bad credit?
Yes, but at higher rates (20-36% APR). Upgrade accepts 580+, Upstart uses AI beyond credit scores.