Personal loans allow consumers to borrow money, use the funds for any expense, then repay slowly over time. An ideal lender will offer fair interest rates, flexible payment plans, low fees and standout customer service. To help you determine your right financial course of action, our partners at ConsumerAffairs researched the best personal loans in Cincinnati.
Everyone deserves to make thoughtful, informed purchase decisions. The local guides provided on this website are free for consumers. WCPO may receive compensation from our partners. Learn more.
How to choose a personal loan company in Cincinnati
Personal loans are a popular way to pay for life’s major expenses. Many consumers use these loans, which range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, to pay for life events, consolidate debt, finance a home renovation or take a vacation.
Personal loans can either be secured or unsecured; which you qualify for depends on your circumstances. Most are unsecured, meaning they aren’t backed by collateral like a house or vehicle.
There are pros and cons to both secured and unsecured personal loans.
Type
Pros
Cons
Unsecured Loan
No collateral required
Higher interest rates; more difficult to obtain
Secured Loan
Lower interest rate; easier to obtain; higher borrowing amounts
Lender can seize collateral
Before getting a personal loan in Cincinnati, it’s important to compare costs from different types of lenders. Banks, credit unions and online loan companies all offer personal loans. Read consumer reviews and complaints, and confirm that any lender is licensed by Ohio’s Department of Commerce.
The application process is straightforward. Many lenders offer online applications, while others require you to visit a branch location. During the loan approval process, you’ll need to provide identification, proof of income and additional documentation.
A credit check is required for most types of personal loans, but those with bad credit still have personal loan options in Cincinnati. Some online lenders or credit unions will work with borrowers with lower credit scores.
With a personal loan, you make monthly payments over the course of the term, which can last as long as five to seven years. In addition to principal and interest, be aware of other charges like application fees, loan origination fees or a prepayment penalty.
Avoid lenders with excessive or hidden charges, and make sure you are comfortable with the amount of each payment. With the right personal loan in Cincinnati, you can accomplish short-term financial goals without jeopardizing your long-term financial security.
Best Egg lets you apply online and get funds deposited into your account in just a day. Borrow between $2,000 and $35,000 on a fixed-term, affordable plan. The company’s online tools make it easy to customize payment options and manage your account. Best Egg also provides friendly customer service. Customers say it’s easy to apply and describe the terms and rates as competitive and fair.
FreedomPlus offers personal loans from $7,500 to $40,000. Customers get same-day loan decisions, clear terms, fixed monthly payments and personal service. Funds are available within three business days. Reviewers like being able to talk to a loan consultant over the phone to discuss financial goals. According to customers, FreedomPlus staff are professional and knowledgeable.
Sponsored Ad
Credit Direct
Credit Direct Loans gives borrowers the flexibility to borrow anywhere between $1,000 and $40,000, making cash available in as little as 24 hours. It takes only five minutes to fill out a web application, and your personal information is always secure. Free consultations are available over the phone. Customers say the experience of working with Credit Direct Loans is exceptional from start to finish.
Sponsored Ad
Eagle
Eagle is a local lender offering borrowers between $1,000 and $10,000 in personal loans. Customers can apply online or at a branch and often receive a loan decision on the same day. Payment terms range between eight and 24 months. Many Cincinnati reviewers give Eagle five stars and recommend the company to anyone needing a personal loan.
OneMain Financial
OneMain Financial has been a trusted lender in the U.S. for over 100 years, offering fixed rates and payments and personalized service. Cincinnati residents can complete an online application, then meet with a loan specialist at one of the local branches. If you are approved by noon, same-day funds are available. Customers in Cincinnati appreciate the friendliness of local staff during the application process.
Our partners independently research and analyze the companies mentioned in our guides and work with subject matter experts to add valuable information that helps consumers make smart purchase decisions. Our partners will not include companies on these guides that do not meet specific quality standards. The compensation we receive from our partners may impact how and where companies appear on our site, including the order in which they appear.
Our partners independently research companies, and use editorial discretion to award companies with special recognition (i.e. Best Value) based on their staff’s judgement or subject matter expert’s judgement. Our partners do this to help you identify companies that will meet your specific buying needs, and do not receive compensation for these designations.