Loans Like CreditNinja

CreditNinja offers loans even with bad credit, but they often come at a higher cost. Alternatives like Upgrade and MoneyMutual may have better terms.

Would you like to score lower personal loan interest rates than CreditNinja's? Or snag a larger loan amount?

Don't fret. There's a whole world of lenders similar to CreditNinja that meet such borrowing needs. Let's explore them.

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8 Loans Like CreditNinja

While it's nice that CreditNinja doesn't just look at your credit score or history, it could potentially charge triple-digit APRs.

So, let's start with a lender that offers more manageable rates and higher loanable amounts.

Upgrade: $1,000 to $50,000

• Processing time: Usually decided in minutes; funding may be available within one business day.
  
• Cost: Check here for APR; fees and penalties may apply^[1].
  
• Other products and services: Rewards Checking Plus, Flex Pay, Upgrade OneCard, Premier Savings

Need to tackle high-interest credit card debt? Or maybe life threw you a curveball? Fintech company Upgrade is shaking things up by making credit more accessible and affordable for most people.

Compared with CreditNinja, Upgrade has APRs that don't exceed 36%. This is largely because banks fund the loans. It also offers lower rates if you set up automatic payments, use all or part of the loan to pay off existing debt, or use your car as collateral.

With an Upgrade personal loan, you can pay off multiple debts, make a long-awaited purchase, or do something else entirely. For example, if you plan to renovate your kitchen, you don't have to put up your house as collateral.

While Upgrade loans are multi-purpose, you can't use them for post-secondary education costs. These pertain to school loans like tuition, room and board, supplies, etc.

MoneyMutual®: Up to $5,000

• Processing time: Usually decided within minutes; funding may be available in 24 hours.
  
• Cost: APRs vary by lender; penalties may apply subject to state guidelines.
  
• Other products and services: N/A

MoneyMutual®, a free resource for borrowers, connects you with multiple lenders in its network. So unlike CreditNinja, it acts as an affiliate marketer. Once you land an offer, you'll deal with the actual lender directly.

As a lending matchmaker, MoneyMutual® doesn't make the call. The only way to see what you'll qualify for is to submit a loan request and see who takes you up. Each lender has their own rules, so your loan terms could be different from others.

Don't worry, MoneyMutual® won't turn you away even if you're not making much. Some of the lenders in its network have more flexible requirements and will consider an $800 monthly income. This way, your chances of landing a deal are pretty good.

Curious about what your monthly payments could look like with any lender? Try this personal loan calculator to crunch numbers.

If you're a skilled or licensed professional, you might benefit more from this next AI lending marketplace.

Upstart: $1,000 to $50,000

• Processing time: Most borrowers are instantly approved without paperwork; funding may be available next business day.
  
• Cost: Check here for your individual rate; origination fee and penalties may apply subject to state guidelines.^[7]
  
• Other products and services: Car loan refinance

Upstart uses AI technology to paint a clearer picture of your financial potential. It can identify behavior patterns that traditional metrics might overlook, like timing of cash flows and income stability—both critical for predicting repayment capacity.

Another standout feature? Upstart doesn't just look at numbers; it reads your story. Your college degree, work history, and where you studied matters in the assessment of your application. Even if your credit score isn't perfect, your skills might get you in.

Noticeably, Upstart offers higher loan amounts than CreditNinja. However, you might need to put up collateral like your car to unlock them.

In addition, payment activity is reported to the three major credit bureaus. That's great news if you're trying to build credit. At the same time, it means staying on top of those payments is important.

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What if you don't have strong work credentials and your credit score is below 600? Turn to the next option.

BadCreditLoans: $500 to $10,000

• Processing time: Usually decided within minutes; funding may be available next business day.
  
• Cost: APRs vary by lender; other fees and penalties may apply subject to state guidelines.
  
• Other products and services: N/A

BadCreditLoans doesn't shy away from less-than-ideal credit. In fact, it caters to bad credit borrowers—the name says it all!

Instead of a stellar credit score (although that always helps), it wants proof that you can handle the monthly payments. Whether you have a regular job, own a business, or get benefits, you must prove you have a steady income.

The application process isn't too different from other lending platforms. Just submit a request online, and usually within minutes, you'll know if any lender is interested.

Avant®: $2,000 TO $35,000

• Processing time: Usually decided in minutes; funding may be available on the next business day.
  
• Cost: Check here to see APR; administration fee and penalties may apply, subject to state guidelines.
  
• Other products and services: Credit cards, loan refinancing

Avant® boasts over 25 years of experience under its belt. While relatively newer players like CreditNinja might still be finding its footing, this lending veteran has built a reputation for offering competitive interest rates and generous loan amounts.

Nonetheless, it isn't for everyone. While Avant® says it tries to accommodate different credit profiles, it tends to approve borrowers with fair credit or higher.

That said, Avant® is very considerate of those whose loan applications have already been approved. If you're running a few days behind on your payment, it has a grace period of several days. You'll only be charged a late fee of $25 if the payment was made ten days or more after your due date.^[10]

However, if your payment was rejected (i.e. a bounced check), Avant® will charge you a dishonored payment fee of $15.

LendingTree: $1,000 to $50,000

• Processing time: Usually decided within minutes; funding may be available within 24 hours.
  
• Cost: Check here for your individual APR; penalties may apply subject to state guidelines.
  
• Other products and services: Loan refinancing, credit cards, mortgages

LendingTree's network of 500+ lenders offers up to 10 times the maximum loanable amount of CreditNinja.

Based on the type of loan you're looking for, LendingTree scans its lender database to find up to five lenders that most closely match your needs. These lenders come back with personalized rates and terms, so you can compare and pick one that feels right.

Once you've chosen an offer, you'll talk directly with the lender through email or phone to finalize the deal. You'll typically verify the information you sent online with documents like W-2 forms, pay stubs, or house appraisals.

Think $50,000 is the highest loanable amount? This next lender doubles that!

LightStream: $5,000 to $100,000

• Processing time: Usually decided during business hours; funding may be available on the same business day.
  
• Cost: Rates vary by loan purpose; lower by 0.50% with AutoPay.
  
• Other products and services: N/A

LightStream, a division of Truist Bank, offers one of the seriously lowest interest rates for personal loans. If you want its absolute best rate, set up AutoPay to slash 0.50% point from the initial rate.

LightStream offers a $100 Loan Experience Guarantee if you're unsatisfied and provide feedback within 30 days. Its Rate Beat Program lowers your rate by 0.10 percentage points if you get approved for a similar unsecured loan elsewhere and request the match at least two business days before funding.

However, you should know that LightStream needs you to have at least good credit. Don't apply if your FICO® score is below 670.

Also, LightStream has no rate sneak peek. When you apply, it's going straight for a hard credit pull from TransUnion® or Equifax®. The impact is generally minimal, especially if your credit is in good standing.

24/7 Lending Group: $1,000 to $35,000

• Processing time: Usually decided in an hour; funding may be available within 24 hours.
  
• Cost: APRs vary by lender; origination fee and penalties subject to state guidelines.
  
• Other products and services: N/A

24/7 Lending Group is a good alternative to CreditNinja when shopping for personal loans tailor-fitted to your needs. When you request a loan quote, it will run your info through loan algorithms and determine which products suit your profile. It'll then serve a neat menu of loan options to compare rates and terms easily.

What if your credit history is a bit thin? Bringing in an employed cosigner with solid credit could boost your application.

Once you find an offer you like, 24/7 Lending Group will pass the baton to the actual lender. You can always reject the offer if you're unhappy with the terms.

Still have questions about personal loans or CreditNinja? You'll find some answers in the coming sections.

How to Choose Loans Like CreditNinja

If you're considering a personal loan with CreditNinja or a similar provider, weigh these three key factors before making a decision:

• Eligibility requirements
  Does the lender meet your financial profile? Look for specifics like minimum income requirement, credit score qualification, and state availability. This ensures you're not wasting time applying for loans you're not eligible for.

• Loan terms
  Are the APR and repayment terms reasonable for your budget? Make sure the loan amount aligns with your needs—too little or too much can create unnecessary financial strain.

• Speed
  How quickly can you get approved and funded? Some lenders provide near-instant approval and same-day funding, while others take longer.

By keeping the above considerations in mind, you can make a confident and informed choice with a loan that suits your financial goals and timeline.

Is CreditNinja safe?
CreditNinja is generally safe. It uses an SSL Certificate to encrypt applicant information, ensuring your data's security. It also enjoys an excellent rating on Trustpilot, with over 9,000+ reviews^[12].

Personal Loan Alternatives

While loans can fix some financial problems, you might not need them in the first place given the following options.

Cash advance app
You can potentially save on interest charges. However, even the best cash advance apps are only ideal for small amount needs.

Borrow from friends and family
Reserve this option for small amounts to ensure you can pay them back and not risk straining relationships.

Credit cards
Although the APRs will likely be about the same as a personal loan, using your credit card may be more accessible and versatile.

Payday Alternative Loans (PALs)
If you're a credit union member, ask about these since they usually have lower rates.

Savings
This may be a last resort, but in case you take it up, make sure your need won't entail depleting your entire stash.

401(k) loans
If your plan sponsor allows it, you can borrow from your 401(k) without impacting your credit score.

Methodology

When looking for loans like CreditNinja, we put on our borrower glasses and dove deep. This wasn't just another list—this was a mission to find lenders who understand your financial reality.

We focused on loan features, the simplicity of the application process, and the quality of customer support. Our priority? Lenders who see beyond a credit score and accommodate borrowers with imperfect credit.

User reviews weren't just background noise—they were our compass. We scoured complaints, satisfaction ratings, and testimonials to separate genuine helpers from predatory lenders.

Transparency was a non-negotiable factor. Lender websites must provide clear conditions on APRs, fees, and repayment terms.

Lastly, we gave extra credit to lenders offering useful perks like financial education tools, promoting financial literacy and supporting responsible borrowing. These additional benefits are signs of a lender who cares about your overall financial health.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is CreditNinja?

  CreditNinja is an online lender that's not afraid to work with individuals whose credit scores leave much to be desired. It offers modest personal loan amounts ranging from $300 to $5,000, repayment terms stretching up to 24 months, and same-day funding.

• Is CreditNinja a legit company?

  CreditNinja is a legitimate lending company established in 2018. It operates under state and federal laws as evidenced by its NMLS registration. To date, it has served over 275,000 clients.^[13]

• What kinds of credit does CreditNinja offer?

  CreditNinja offers three types of loans—personal loans, bad credit loans, and installment loans. But basically, they're personal loans. They're unsecured, multipurpose and repaid through fixed monthly installments.

• What is a hardship loan?

  Hardship loans support individuals facing financial challenges such as job loss, medical emergencies, or natural disasters. Banks, credit unions, employers, and various government programs offer them.

  Unlike personal loans, hardship loans often bypass standard requirements and fees. They tend to focus more on the immediate needs of the borrower rather than their ability to repay. Lenders generally require proof of hardship, such as medical bills or a job termination notice.

• How can I improve my loan approval odds?

  Here are some simple, effective strategies to improve the approval odds of your loan application:

  • Get a stable job
    While many lenders overlook one's credit score, they put a lot of weight on regular employment.

  • Limit hard credit inquiries
    When shopping for loans, choose a lender that conducts soft pulls instead.

  • Use a credit-builder loan
    Credit builder loans are recommended for those with no credit or poor credit. This motivates you to pay on time.

  • Keep your credit cards open
    Closing a credit card reduces your available credit, which can impact your credit utilization ratio.

  • Find a co-borrower/co-signer
    Especially if they have a high credit score and you don't, you can gain the confidence of hesitant lenders.

Bottom Line

It's good to know that CreditNinja isn't alone in serving a segment of the market often overlooked by traditional banks. You have MoneyMutual® and BadCreditLoans as viable options for those with less-than-stellar credit or low monthly income.

On the other hand, if you have good credit, go for Upgrade and LightStream. Both have some of the most competitive interest rates for personal loans.

Nonetheless, it's important to approach these services with caution, fully understanding the cost of borrowing. While lenders like CreditNinja can be a lifeline, it also has the potential to become a cycle of debt if not managed properly.

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