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Applying for a student loan generally works one of two ways. Students interested in borrowing a federal student loan can apply by filling out and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) as early as the October before the school year. The federal deadline for filling out the FAFSA is typically June of the school year, though states and individual colleges may have their own deadlines.

Private student loans run independently of the federal loan program. Students are able to apply for a private student loan at any time during the school year.

Understanding The Difference Between Private and Federal Student Loans

There are a few important differences between federal and private student loans that it’s important to understand.

For federal student loans, The U.S. Department of Education runs the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The program has four types of loans to consider:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans: for undergraduates who demonstrate financial need.

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans: for undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Eligibility is not based on financial need.

•   Direct PLUS Loans: made only to graduate or professional students, or to the parents of dependent undergraduate students. No financial need is required for Direct PLUS Loans, but a credit check is. If you’re applying yourself and your credit isn’t great, you may need to meet some additional requirements.

•   Direct Consolidation Loans: these allow you to consolidate all of your federal student loans into one single loan, which is managed by a single loan servicer.

Private student loans are offered through private lenders. As a part of the application process, lenders will generally evaluate a borrower’s personal financial information and history, including their credit score, among other factors. Private loans don’t have to follow the same government regulations as federal loans, and they don’t offer the same borrower benefits or protections — like income-driven repayment plans or Public Service Loan Forgiveness. For this reason, private loans are generally considered an option only after other sources of funding have been exhausted.

💡 Quick Tip: SoFi offers low fixed- or variable-interest rates. So you can get a private student loan that fits your budget.

How to Apply for a Federal Student Loan

The first step in applying for a federal student loan is to complete and submit a form called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). As mentioned, the FAFSA is typically available starting in October of the year before school starts. The FAFSA will remain open until June 30th of the academic year. So for example, for the 2023-2024 school year, the FAFSA application opened on October 1, 2022, and will close on June 30, 2024.

While there is a large window to fill out the FAFSA, there may be college or state deadlines that fall before the federal deadline. Additionally, some aid is awarded on a first-come first-served basis, so it can be beneficial to fill out the FAFSA as early as possible.

Once the FAFSA is submitted, your school will review and determine your financial aid offer, which may include federal student loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study.

Before you receive any federal student loan that you apply for, you’ll be required to complete entrance counseling , which is designed to help you understand your obligation to repay the loan. You’ll also be asked to sign a Master Promissory Note, which says you officially agree to the terms of the loan.

How To Apply For Private Student Loans

You may want to consider a private student loan after you’ve explored your options for financial aid, grants, scholarships, and federal student loans. Private lenders typically have their own qualification criteria, but you may be eligible to apply for a private student loan if you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, pursuing a certificate, a student of the dental, medical, or other health professions, studying to take the bar exam, or relocating for medical or dental residencies.

Parents may also be eligible to take out private loans to pay for their child’s education.

Private student loans can usually be used for any type of expenses related to your education, including tuition, room and board, fees, books, supplies, equipment, computers and electronics related to your schoolwork, transportation, and personal needs at school.

This list details some of the information you may need when applying for a private school loan. Note that applications will vary by lender so you may not need everything here:

•   The applicant’s name, address, phone number and email address

•   Date of birth

•   Social security number

•   Employer’s name

•   Proof of income (a recent pay stub)

•   Bank account balances

•   Monthly housing payment (rent/mortgage)

•   School name

•   Estimated cost of attendance

•   Your current student status (freshman, full time, for example)

•   Other financial aid you’ve received so far

•   Anticipated graduation date

•   References

•   Student loan cosigner and cosigner’s information, if applicable

Private student loan lenders may let you submit your loan application online, and some may even be able to give you an answer the same day. Of course, underwriting timeframes and documentation requirements can vary greatly by lender.

Private student loans are granted based on your income, credit history, and credit score, among other factors. That means the lender looks at your history of borrowing money and paying it back. This history also determines your loan’s interest rate.

If your credit history is unestablished or less than stellar, applicants may consider adding a cosigner to the loan: that person will be responsible for paying it if you are unable to do so.

Interest rates on private student loans can be fixed-rate or variable interest rate. Fixed rates do not change over the life of the loan. Variable interest rates could increase or decrease due to the financial index that determines the variable rate, or other factors as determined by your lender. Your total monthly payment could vary based on the loan’s current interest rate.

Know that not all private student loans are exactly alike. If you’re interested in borrowing a private student loan, consider shopping around and researching your options. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the U.S. Department of Education are two student loan resources that may be useful.

💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate

Beyond Student Loans: Other Ways to Pay for College

Students can explore other options to pay for college, including scholarships, work-study, grants, and more.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are types of aid that don’t need to be repaid. Grants are generally awarded based on financial need and may be awarded by your school, the government, or another organization such as a nonprofit.

Scholarships may be awarded based on financial need or merit.

Work-Study

The federal work-study program offers part-time employment to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility for work-study is determined by the FAFSA. Some schools may match students to a work-study job, while other schools may require that students apply for positions.

Part-Time Job

Working part-time can be another way to earn extra cash to pay for college expenses. Students could look into jobs such as tutoring, babysitting, or working at a local business in their college town.

The Takeaway

To get a federal student loan, students fill out the FAFSA in order to see which type and how much aid they may be eligible for. The application process for private student loans may vary by lender. Private student loans can help students pay for college if they don’t get enough federal aid.

Students can also explore other options to help pay for college, such as scholarships and grants and work-study or another part-time job.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

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With the average cost of tuition at a private college close to $40,000 per year, it’s no surprise that many students will take out student loans to pay for their education. These student loans come in all shapes and sizes: federal or private, subsidized or unsubsidized, cosigned or not.

Most federal student loans do not require a credit check and can be borrowed without a cosigner. While the majority of students who take out private loans have a cosigner to guarantee the loan, that’s not an option for everyone. A cosigner — generally a family member or close friend — is someone who guarantees they will pay back your student loan if, for some reason, you can’t.

If you don’t have enough established credit to qualify for a private student loan on your own, turning to a cosigner, if possible, may also help you get approved at a better interest rate. However, not everyone has someone to cosign their student loans, and that’s okay too. There are plenty of ways to potentially qualify for both private and federal student loans without a cosigner. Here’s what you need to know.

Purpose of Adding a Cosigner

There are two main reasons why adding a cosigner to a private student loan may make sense — one is to improve your chances of being approved for a loan and the other is to potentially help secure a more competitive interest rate.

If you’re applying for student loans, you may not have a long credit history yet. To lenders, a lack of credit history can be seen as risky because you haven’t proved how well you can manage your financial obligations. You might need a cosigner to convince a lender to give you a student loan, since having a cosigner with more financial security or a better credit history reduces risk to the lender.

A cosigner with a strong credit history may also help you get approved for a loan with a lower interest rate, which could help reduce the amount of money you pay in interest over the life of the loan.

A cosigner will need to share their financial information with the lender, so it’s a good idea to make sure that your cosigner has plenty of time to get their documents in order and discuss loan applications with you.

Can You Get a Federal Student Loan Without a Cosigner?

The short answer is yes. The first step in qualifying for a federal financial aid package is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

You’ll submit your financial information and, if you’re a dependent student, your parents’ information too. Depending on your financial need, you’ll then be offered a combination of federal student loans — including subsidized and unsubsidized Direct or PLUS Loans — and work-study programs.

Federal student loans typically do not require a cosigner, nor a credit check, and they often have competitive interest rates. Direct PLUS Loans , which are primarily offered to parents and graduate or professional students, however, do require a credit check.

You’ll want to keep in mind that there are limits on how much you can take out in federal loans. For example, dependent students whose parents are unable to obtain PLUS Loans cannot take out more than $9,500 as a first-year undergrad. And, no more than $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans. For more information on loan limits, check here . Because of these limits, students may look for additional sources of funding.

💡 Quick Tip: You’ll make no payments on some private student loans for six months after graduation.

Can You Get a Private Student Loan Without a Cosigner?

Yes, it is possible to get a private student loan without a cosigner, but you will likely need to have an established credit history or be willing to pay a higher interest rate.

To qualify for a private student loan, which are available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders, you generally have to be age 18 or older, a U.S. resident, and enrolled in school at least part time. Additionally, certain lenders may only approve loans if you are enrolled at schools that meet their criteria, which can vary from lender to lender.

To qualify for a private student loan without a cosigner, you typically must meet certain credit requirements. This often includes at least two years of established credit history, a credit score in the “good” range (670-739), and a certain minimum amount of income.

Some private lenders will provide student loans without a cosigner even if you have a limited credit history or income. However, you will almost definitely pay a higher interest rate.

If you know you’re going to need a student loan without a cosigner, one option is to start building your credit as early as you can. There are several ways to begin building credit. One is to be added as an authorized user on a credit card held by someone (usually a parent) with good credit. If you’re over 21, you might consider applying for a low-limit credit card. This type of credit card can help keep you from going overboard on spending, while still allowing you to establish credit.

💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Why It Can Help to Have a Cosigner on a Private Student Loan

Having a cosigner on a private student loan can help you qualify for a loan you might not otherwise be able to get. In addition, it can help you get approved for a larger loan amount, as well as lower rates and fees.

You’ll also want to keep in mind that having a cosigner is not necessarily a permanent situation. Some lenders will “release” a cosigner from a loan after the primary borrower meets certain requirements, like a certain number of payments and a credit check.

You also may consider refinancing your loan once you’re out of school, which will then be a way to have the loan in your own name. It can be a good idea to talk through what your cosigner expects and anticipates for the life of the loan, so that you’re both on the same page.

What is the Minimum Credit Score for a Student Loan?

If you apply for a federal student loan, your credit score won’t be a factor, since a credit check is not even part of the application process. However, private student loans often require a credit score of at least 670 to get a loan without a cosigner.

The exact qualification criteria will vary from lender to lender but, generally, the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to qualify and obtain a competitive interest rate for a private student loan.

Before you apply for a private student loan, you may want to get copies of your credit reports (available free at AnnualCreditReport.com ) and check your credit score to get a sense of where you may stand in the eyes of a lender. You also can check your credit report for any errors, which could bring down your score.

Who is Eligible for Student Loans That Don’t Require Cosigners?

Federal student loans don’t require a cosigner. There are also some private student loans that don’t require a cosigner, though you typically need to meet certain credit and income requirements.

You may be able to check your private student loan eligibility before you apply for a loan without a cosigner. This triggers what’s known as a “soft” credit check. A soft credit check does not affect your credit score, but can give you an approximate idea of whether or not you’ll be approved for a loan and what the interest rate on the loan may be.

Keep in mind, though, that your loan won’t be finalized until you apply for the loan. At this point, a hard credit check will be performed and final approval decisions will come through. But checking loan eligibility is one way to know whether or not a lender may consider your application without a cosigner.

What are Your Options If You Can’t Get a Student Loan Without a Cosigner?

If you can’t get a student loan without a cosigner and you don’t have someone who can be your cosigner, don’t panic. There are other potential paths forward depending on your goals and your circumstances:

•   Take a gap year. Some students take a year off to build credit, grow their income, and reapply once they feel their finances are on more secure footing.

•   Consider a less expensive school. Some students who can’t get a cosigner decide to go to a community college and take core credit courses. They may also work during this time. Then, when they feel their finances are on more secure footing, they transfer to their intended school to finish their degree.

•   Rethink your education priorities. If you can’t get a cosigner and are having trouble shouldering loans on your loan, you may recalibrate your educational goals and consider different degree programs or institutions that may have a less expensive price tag. It can be helpful to talk to people who work in your future career field — they may have thoughts on how you can save money on education or may have tips for alternate paths toward the job you want.

•   Talk with your financial aid office. Chances are, your financial aid office has seen similar situations and may have ideas. They may also be able to connect you with other funding opportunities, as well as students who have independently financed their education.

Other Ways to Help Finance Your Education

Besides taking out federal student loans or private student loans without a cosigner, there are a few other options to help finance your education.

There are many grants and scholarships available, including need-based grants and merit-based grants (grants available for students who reach a certain level of academic excellence) that you do not need to repay. You can search for scholarships online to see if there are any you might qualify for. You might also ask your high school’s college counselor or selected college’s financial aid office for information on any scholarships or grants you may be eligible for.

You might also consider working while you’re in school. Some students find they can manage a job alongside their studies, while others find that it’s challenging to find a balance. There is no “right” way to pay for your education. Some students may take a year or more off to save up for school, and then focus full-time on school. Talking to graduates can help you see different pathways and that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to financing an education.

The Takeaway

Applying for a private student loan with a cosigner can help a potential borrower secure a more competitive interest rate or preferable loan terms. This is because the cosigner provides additional security for the lender — if the primary borrower runs into any issues repaying the loan, the cosigner is responsible.

Federal student loans, aside from Direct PLUS loans, do not require a credit check or cosigner. If you find that your federal loans aren’t going to cover your education, a private student loan may help. And, some private lenders will offer student loans without a cosigner. Just keep in mind that private student loans lack the borrower protections offered by federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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A first-time homebuyer isn’t just someone purchasing a first home. It can be anyone who has not owned a principal residence in the past three years, some single parents, a spouse who has not owned a home, and more.

If the thought of a down payment and closing costs put a chill down your spine, realize that first-time homebuyers often have access to special grants, loans, and programs.

‘First-Time Homebuyer’ Under the Microscope

To get a sense of who qualifies for a mortgage as a first-time homebuyer, let’s take a look at the government’s definition.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) says first-time buyers meet any of these criteria:

•   An individual who has not held ownership in a principal residence during the three-year period ending on the date of the purchase.

•   A single parent who has only owned a home with a former spouse.

•   An individual who is a displaced homemaker (has worked only in the home for a substantial number of years providing unpaid household services for family members) and has only owned a home with a spouse.

•   Both spouses if one spouse is or was a homeowner but the other has not owned a home.

•   A person who has only owned a principal residence that was not permanently attached to a foundation (such as a mobile home when the wheels are in place).

•   An individual who has owned a property that is not in compliance with state, local, or model building codes and that cannot be brought into compliance for less than the cost of constructing a permanent structure.

For conventional (nongovernment) financing through private lenders, Fannie Mae’s criteria are similar.

💡 Recommended: The Complete First-Time Home Buyer Guide

Options for First-Time Homebuyers

First-time homebuyers may not realize that they, like other buyers, may qualify to buy a home with much less than 20% down.

They also have access to first-time homebuyer programs that may ease the credit requirements of homeownership.

Federal Government-Backed Mortgages

When the federal government insures mortgages, the loans pose less of a risk to lenders. This means lenders may offer you a lower interest rate.

There are three government-backed home loan options: FHA loans, USDA loans, and VA loans. In exchange for a low down payment, you’ll pay an upfront and annual mortgage insurance premium for FHA loans, an upfront guarantee fee and annual fee for USDA loans, or a one-time funding fee for VA loans.

FHA Loans

The Federal Housing Administration, part of HUD, insures fixed-rate mortgages issued by approved lenders. On average, more than 80% of FHA-insured mortgages are for first-time homebuyers each year.

If you have a FICO® credit score of 580 or higher, you could get an FHA loan with just 3.5% down. If you have a score between 500 and 579, you may still qualify for a loan with 10% down.

USDA Loans

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers assistance to buy (or, in some cases, even build) a home in certain rural areas. Your income has to be within a certain percentage of the average median income for the area.

If you qualify, the loan requires no down payment and offers a fixed interest rate.

VA Loans

A mortgage guaranteed in part by the Department of Veterans Affairs requires no down payment and is available for military members, veterans, and certain surviving military spouses.

Although a VA loan does not state a minimum credit score, lenders who make the loan will set their minimum score for the product based on their risk tolerance.

💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your home mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.

Government-Backed Conventional Mortgages

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, government-backed mortgage companies, do not originate home loans. Instead, they buy and guarantee mortgages issued through lenders in the secondary mortgage market.

They make mortgages available that are geared toward lower-income, lower-credit score borrowers.

Freddie Mac’s Home Possible program offers down payment options as low as 3%. There are also sweat equity down payment options and flexible terms.

Fannie Mae’s 97% LTV (loan-to-value) program also offers 3% down payment loans.

A Mortgage for Certain Civil Servants

If you’re a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or EMT working for a federal, state, local, or Indian tribal government agency, or a teacher at a public or private school, the HUD-backed Good Neighbor Next Door Program could be a good fit. It provides 50% off the listing price of a foreclosed home in specific revitalization areas. In turn, you have to commit to living there for 36 months.

Homes are listed on the HUD website each week, and you have to put an offer in within seven days. Only a registered HUD broker can submit a bid for you on a property.

If using an FHA loan to buy a home in the Good Neighbor Next Door Program, the down payment will be $100. If using a VA loan to purchase a house through the program, buyers will receive 100% financing. If using a conventional home loan, the usual down payment requirements stay the same.

State, County, and City Assistance

It isn’t just the federal government that helps to get first-time buyers into homes. State, county, and city governments and nonprofit organizations run many down payment assistance programs.

HUD is the gatekeeper, steering buyers to state and local programs and offering advice from HUD home assistance counselors.

The National Council of State Housing Agencies has a state-by-state list of housing finance agencies, which cater to low- and middle-income households. Contact the agency to learn about the programs it offers and to get answers to housing finance questions.


💡 Quick Tip: Jumbo mortgage loans are the answer for borrowers who need to borrow more than the conforming loan limit values set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency ($766,550 in most places, or $1,149,825 in many high-cost areas). If you have your eye on a pricier property, a jumbo loan could be a good solution.

Using Gift Money

First-time homebuyers might also want to think about seeking down payment and closing cost help from family members.

If you’re using a cash gift, your lender will want a formal gift letter, and the gift cannot be a loan. Home loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac only allow down payment gifts from someone related to the borrower. Government-backed loans have looser requirements.

Want to use your 401(k) to make a down payment? You could, but financial advisors frown on the idea. Borrowing from your 401(k) can do damage to your retirement savings.

The Takeaway

First-time homebuyers are in the catbird seat if they don’t have much of a down payment or their credit isn’t stellar. Lots of programs, from local to federal, give first-time homeowners a break.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

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SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Whether you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, add a room to your home, or upgrade your backyard, home improvement projects typically require a sizable financial investment. While you might be able to pay cash for small-scale repairs and upgrades, a more substantial project could require funding. That’s where home improvement loans come in.

A home improvement loan is typically a personal loan used to pay for home repairs and renovation projects. These loans aren’t backed by the equity you have in your home, and are generally one of the quickest ways to get funding for a home improvement project. However, they may have higher interest rates and offer lower amounts than other options, such as a home equity loan.

Read on to learn how home improvement loans work, their pros and cons, and how they compare to other home remodel financing options.

What Is a Home Improvement Loan?

Typically, a “home improvement loan” refers to a personal loan that is designed to be used to pay for home upgrades and renovations.

These are unsecured loans — meaning your home isn’t used as collateral to secure the loan. In fact, lenders typically don’t ask for any information about your home with this type of financing. Instead, a lender decides how much to lend to you and at what rate based on your financial credentials, such as your credit score, income, and how much other debt you have.

With a home improvement personal loan, you receive a lump sum of cash up front you can then use to cover the costs of your project. You repay the loan (plus interest) in regular installments over the term of the loan, which is often five or seven years.

One of the advantages of a home improvement loan is that it allows you to access a significant amount of money upfront quickly, often within a day or two. You also don’t need to have built up any equity in your home, or risk losing your home should you default on the loan.

However, personal loans for home improvement tend to be shorter-term and offer smaller loan amounts than other home loan options, making them best suited for small to midsize projects, say renovating a bathroom or repainting the exterior of your home.

Recommended: Can I Pay off a Personal Loan Early?

Alternatives to a Personal Loan

While personal loans can be a quick and convenient way to fund home improvement projects, they aren’t your own option. Here are some alternatives you may also want to consider.

Home Equity Loan

Home equity is the portion of your home that you actually own. More specifically, it is the difference between what your home is currently worth and what you owe your lender. So, for example, if you took out a mortgage for $200,000 and have paid down $50,000 of that loan, you owe the lender $150,000. If your home gets appraised for $250,000, you have $100,000 in equity.

A home equity loan is a loan that utilizes the equity you have built in your home as collateral. Home equity loans often have fixed interest rates and terms that typically range from five to 30 years. These loans provide homeowners with a lump sum of money that can be used for various purposes, including home improvements. As you repay a home equity loan, your payments get added back to your principal, allowing you to build your equity back up.

With a home equity loan, you can often borrow up to 85% of the equity you have in your home.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is similar to a home equity loan, except that the funds are not distributed in a lump sum. The amount of money you can borrow is still tied to the amount of equity you have in your home, but you are given access to a line of credit that you can borrow from as needed.

HELOCs have a draw period, usually 10 years, when you can use some or all of the funds you’re approved to borrow. During that time you typically make interest-only payments on the amount you draw. You then repay the principal later, during the repayment period.

Like a home equity loan, a HELOC is essentially a second mortgage, so you’re using your house as collateral. Unlike a home equity loan, HELOCs have variable rates, which means your annual percentage rate (APR) could go up or down in the future.

One key advantage to a HELOC is its flexibility. This type of financing can be particularly useful for projects you’re doing in stages, or when you don’t know exactly how much the renovation will cost.

Cash-out Refinance

A cash-out refinance involves refinancing your existing mortgage for a higher amount than what you currently owe. The difference between the new loan amount and your current mortgage balance is paid out to you in cash, which you can use for home improvements.

Because cash-out refinancing involves revising your mortgage, it can be a good move if rates have dropped since you financed your home, or you’re in a better financial situation than when you originally took out your mortgage. Lenders typically look at an applicant’s financial history, as well as the appraised value of the home and how long the existing mortgage has been in place.

You’ll want to keep in mind, however, that closing costs can be 2% to 6% of the new mortgage amount, which could potentially be more than you plan to spend on the improvement project.

Construction Loan

If you’re planning significant renovations or an extensive home improvement project, a construction loan may be worth exploring. Construction loans are specifically designed for large-scale projects, such as significant structural changes or additions to a property. These loans usually have variable interest rates and short terms, often just one year.

Unlike mortgages and personal loans that make a lump-sum payment, the lender pays out the money for a construction loan in stages as work on the home progresses. Generally, you make interest-only payments during the construction stage. Once construction finishes, the construction loan needs to be repaid or converted into a mortgage.

Applying for a Home Improvement Loan

Before choosing any type of home improvement loan, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare interest rates, terms, and fees from different lenders to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.

When applying for a home improvement loan, you’ll need to gather all the necessary documentation to support your application. Lenders typically require proof of income, proof of residence, and information about the project you plan to undertake. Some lenders may also ask for estimates or contractor bids to assess the cost of the project.

Your current debts, housing payment, credit history, and total income will all play a role in what rates and terms you qualify for. If possible, take advantage of lenders that offer a prequalification process. This gives you a sense of your approval odds, predicted interest rate, and the total cost of your home improvement loan. Plus, prequalifying doesn’t require a hard credit check, so you won’t have to worry about it impacting your credit score.

Bringing It Home

Home improvement loans allow you to finance a repair or remodeling project for your home. You may be able to get an unsecured personal loan designed to be used for home improvement or, if you’ve built up equity in your home, use a home equity loan, HELOC, or a cash-out refinance, to fund an upgrade. For a substantial structural change, you might consider a construction loan.

The best financing choice for your project will depend on how much money you need, how quickly you want to start work, how much equity you have in your home, your credit profile, and whether or not you want to use your home as collateral for the loan.

Ideally, a home improvement loan should pay for itself over time by increasing the value of your home and improving your overall quality of life.

If you think a personal loan might work well for your home improvement project, SoFi can help. SoFi’s home improvement loans range from $5K-$100K and offer competitive, fixed rates and a variety of terms. Checking your rate won’t affect your credit score, and it takes just one minute.

See if a home improvement loan from SoFi is right for you.

FAQ

Why are home improvement loans so expensive?

Home improvement loans may have higher interest rates compared to traditional mortgages for a few reasons. One is that these loans are often unsecured, meaning you don’t have to use your home as collateral to get the loan, which poses more risk to the lender. Another is that these loans typically have shorter repayment terms compared to mortgages, resulting in higher monthly payments. Also keep in mind that interest rates can vary based on the borrower’s creditworthiness and prevailing market conditions.

Is a home improvement loan the same as a mortgage?

No. A mortgage is a loan used to purchase a property, while a home improvement loan is specifically used to fund renovations or improvements on an existing property. Home improvement loans are typically smaller in amount and have different terms and repayment options compared to mortgages.

How much debt to income do I need for a home improvement loan?

The specific debt-to-income (DTI) ratio required for a home improvement loan can vary depending on the lender and other factors. Generally, a DTI ratio below 43% is considered favorable for loan approval. This means that your total monthly debt payments, including the new loan, should not exceed 43% of your gross monthly income. However, different lenders may have different criteria, so it’s essential to check with the lender you’re considering for their specific DTI requirements.

What is the average length of a home improvement loan?

The average length or term of a home improvement loan will depend on the type of loan you choose. Personal loan terms can range from five or seven years. Loans based on the equity in your home (such as a home equity loan or line of credit) can have terms up to 30 years.

What is the downside to a home equity loan?

While home equity loans can be a useful option for funding home improvements, there are some potential downsides to consider. One is that these loans use your home as collateral, which means you risk foreclosure if you’re unable to repay the loan. Another is that, should your property value decline, you may owe more on the loan than the home is worth, which is known as being “underwater.” Finally, keep in mind that home equity loans typically come with closing costs and fees, similar to a mortgage, which will add to the cost of your remodel.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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Missing a credit card payment can happen to anyone. But a credit card late payment may also come with certain consequences, such as late fees, interest accrued on the credit card balance, and potential negative impacts to your credit score. The longer you go without paying your bill, the more consequences you may experience.

Here’s a look at what happens if you miss a credit card payment and solutions to help prevent this from happening in the first place.

When Is a Credit Card Payment Considered Late?

As soon as you fail to pay your credit card bill by the due date, it’s considered past due. Your credit card company may send you notices about it in the form of calls, emails, letters, or texts. You could also face some financial consequences for being late.

What Happens if You Make a Late Credit Card Payment?

The Credit Card Balance Could Increase

Even if you didn’t use the card to make new purchases during a particular billing cycle, making a late payment could still potentially increase your balance in a few different ways.

With even the first missed due date, the credit card company can charge a late fee of up to $30. If you miss another payment within the next six billing cycles, the late fee can go up to $41.

The silver lining here is that the late fee can’t be more than the minimum amount due on the account. So, for instance, if your minimum payment is $25, your late fee won’t exceed $25.

There’s also a chance the creditor could increase your interest rate if your payment is late by a certain number of days. Increasing your interest rate will also increase your total credit card balance because that new, higher rate (generally referred to as a “penalty APR”) will apply to the entire unpaid balance.

Not all credit card companies have penalty APRs for late payments, so check with your credit card company to verify.

Recommended: What Is APR on a Credit Card?

Your Credit Score Might Be Affected

Your credit score includes information about your credit history, such as your payment history and the standing of your accounts, so a late payment could have a negative impact.

Generally, creditors send information to credit bureaus using different codes to indicate if a payment is current or late. Since there is no credit code for payments that are one to 29 days late, they may use a “current” code.

Once the payment is more than 30 days late, however, creditors generally use the “late” code to denote that the payment is delinquent. But different creditors will send different codes at different times so there’s no way to know for sure when you will see the late payment reflected in your credit report.

Creditors may not report a late payment to credit bureaus until a full billing cycle has gone by with no repayment (typically 30 days). So, for example, if your payment’s due date was the 11th and you paid on the 13th, there’s a chance your credit won’t take a hit.

Although every situation is different, a late payment might end up staying on your credit report for several years. And because credit history is just one factor used to determine your credit score, it’s hard to predict exactly how a late payment will impact your overall score.

The Balance Could Be Charged Off

Another consequence of not paying your credit card bill is that the credit card company may not allow you to continue to use your card for other purchases until your account is in good standing.

What’s more, if your payment is 180 days past due, the credit card company can close your account and charge off the balance. “Charging off” means the credit card company will permanently close the account and write it off as a loss, but the debtor still owes the balance remaining.

Sometimes, credit card companies will attempt to recover what’s owed through their own collection department, but charged-off debts are sometimes sold to third-party collection agencies, which then attempt to get payment from the debtor.

Credit card companies do have leeway to work with their customers. Under FDIC regulations governing retail credit, the creditor can help customers who have had financial setbacks — like job loss or the death of a family member — get back on track.

This leniency is typically shown to people who are willing and able to repay their outstanding debt, and the FDIC encourages creditors to proceed with this step with a structured repayment plan and to monitor the progress of the plan.

How to Resolve a Credit Card Late Payment

Make a Payment Right Away

If the payment just slipped your mind, don’t panic. Paying the credit card balance in full immediately helps avoid accruing interest charges and potentially saves your credit score from dropping. Alternatively, you might want to ask your credit card company about arranging a payment plan to minimize the damage.

Negotiate Fees

Even though your credit score may not drop because of one missed payment, you may incur late fees or a penalty interest rate (or, more accurately, a penalty APR as mentioned above), which will likely increase your total balance.

However, sometimes credit card companies are willing to work with customers to waive those fees. Calling your credit card company to request a waiver of late fees could be a first step, especially if your account is up to date and you’re not a repeat offender.

If your credit card company seems unwilling to change your rate back to the original amount, you might consider asking if they will do so once you show responsible payment history.

Automate Your Credit Card Payments

To help prevent any late payments in the future, you may want to consider setting up autopay to cover the minimum payment on your credit cards.

This way, if a payment slips your mind, you shouldn’t face any late payment consequences. Setting your bill to be automatically paid in full a few days before the payment is due can ensure you pay your balance in time.

If you would prefer not to sign up for autopay, many credit card companies have an option to sign up for notifications that remind you when your payments are due.

Getting Out of Credit Card Debt

To avoid late credit card payments once and for all, you may want to consider solutions for getting out of credit card debt entirely. Strategies depend on your unique financial situation, of course, but here are some you might want to explore.

Budget to Get Out of Debt

Creating a budget can help you better manage your money so you know what you have coming in and going out. You can use either a simple spreadsheet or a spending tracker app to simplify your efforts.

Once you have a handle on how much extra money you can put toward your debt, you may want to select a debt repayment strategy, such as the snowball method or avalanche method.

With the snowball method, the focus is on paying off the smallest debt balance first and then moving on to the second smallest debt balance, and so on, while still making minimum payments on all debt. This type of method is meant to give a psychological boost.

The avalanche method tackles the debt with the highest interest rate. Since you’re starting with the most expensive debt, this strategy can be a big money saver in the long run.

Open a Balance Transfer Credit Card

If your credit is in good standing, opening a balance transfer credit card could be a solution. Usually, these types of credit cards come with low or 0% APRs for a certain period.

Some companies may offer up to 21 months of interest-free payments during the promotional period. But it’s important to note that while the introductory period might be interest-free, you may still have to pay a balance transfer fee between 2% and 5%.

Ideally, you would pay your credit card balance in full by the time the introductory period is over, which would allow you to avoid interest payments on the debt.

Keep in mind, however, many balance transfer credit cards have restrictions. For example, if you make a late payment, you may lose your introductory rate.

Another limitation may be that your introductory APR only applies to the transferred balance and all other transactions may have a higher rate.

Before taking out another line of credit, understand that it can impact your total credit score. Credit scores are calculated using several factors, including credit history and new credit, both of which could be affected when opening a new account.

Consolidate Debt with a Personal Loan

Another option may be to combine separate payments into one credit card consolidation loan, hopefully for a reduced interest rate. While a loan doesn’t erase your debt, it can help you focus on one monthly payment, which might enable you to pay down your debt faster.

As you compare rates, it’s important to understand how a new loan could pay off in the long run. If your monthly payment is lower because the loan term is longer, for example, it might not be a good strategy, because it means you may be making more interest payments and therefore paying more over the life of the loan. You can use an online personal loan calculator to get an idea of how much interest you could save by using a personal loan to pay off debt.

Recommended: 11 Types of Personal Loans & Their Differences

The Takeaway

Late credit card payments can happen to anyone, but unfortunately, they may come with consequences, like late fees, interest, or a temporary hit to your credit score. And the longer your bill goes unpaid, the more consequences you may experience. Fortunately, there are ways to resolve a late payment, starting with making a payment as soon as you realize one is overdue. If you incurred penalty fees, you can ask your credit card company for a one-time waiver and look into setting up automatic payments to ensure your future bills are paid on time.

Looking into ways to pay down your debt? Budgeting is one solution, as it helps you keep tabs on where your money is going. If combining multiple bills into one fixed monthly payment, at a potentially reduced interest rate, is part of your strategy, then a credit card consolidation loan may be an option to consider. (Debt management is a common use for a personal loan.)

If you are thinking about taking out a loan to consolidate your debt, a SoFi personal loan may be a good option for your unique financial situation. SoFi personal loans offer competitive, fixed rates and a variety of terms. Checking your rate won’t affect your credit score, and it takes just one minute.

See if a personal loan from SoFi is right for you.

FAQ

Can you go to jail for not paying credit card bills?

No, you can’t be arrested for not paying your credit card bills.

What happens if you never pay your credit card bill?

There are some serious potential ramifications for not paying your bills. The delinquency may be noted on your credit report, which can damage your credit score. You could even face a civil lawsuit if the debt goes unpaid.

Can my creditor garnish my wages for not paying my credit card?

Yes, if your credit card debt has been sold to a debt collector, and the collector has a court judgment, then they can garnish your bank account or wages.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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