Hannah Smith

Editor, Personal Loans
  • 2
    Years at Bankrate
  • 5
    Years of experience
Ribbon EXPERTISE
  • Personal loans
  • Student loans
  • Data analysis
Education EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Arts in English, Kennesaw State University
  • Master of Arts in English, North Carolina State University

 

Hannah Smith is a Bankrate editor specializing in personal loans. They are meticulous in their approach to ensuring users can navigate the complexities of loans with the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Prior to joining the Bankrate team, Hannah was an editor for House Method where they edited and published over 400 articles aimed at helping readers make informed decisions on home renovations and services.

Hannah currently lives in Raleigh. When they are not editing, they enjoy walking with their dog, playing tabletop games and reading.

Shopping around with multiple lenders is truly the key to getting the best rate for your loan. Each lender will offer different incentives, perks and rates. When I was applying for a loan to get a car, I checked with a minimum of three lenders — including a credit union — to ensure I was getting the best rate for the long term.

— Hannah Smith

Hannah's Picks

An illustrated image of an RV with money in the background
5 MIN READ

How to choose the best RV loan lender for you

Find the right lender by doing your research and prequalifying.

Person in bed on phone
5 MIN READ

How long does it take to get a loan? Tips to speed the process

It doesn’t take long at all to complete an application or receive your loan.

Young woman comparing lenders on laptop
4 MIN READ

PenFed vs. SoFi: Which offers better personal loans?

PenFed and SoFi are two highly ranked lenders that offer personal loans with competitive rates. The major difference between the two is cost and speed. You may be funded a little more quickly with SoFi, [...]

Image of young couple talking to loan officer. Male client and financial advisor are shaking hands.
5 MIN READ

Weigh all your options: How to choose the best boat loan lender

There isn’t a best boat lender, but certain ones can meet your needs more than others.

4 MIN READ

How fast can you get a loan in an emergency?

Emergency loans are available within one to three business days after applying.

Family enjoying guitar and fire while camping in an RV
5 MIN READ

Is buying an RV worth it, or should you just rent one?

Should you buy or rent an RV? It depends on your travel plans.

Man fixing home siding
4 MIN READ

Best home improvement loans with bad credit in 2024

These lenders offer home improvement loans even for borrowers with bad credit.

6 MIN READ

Where can I get a bad credit loan?

Bad credit loans are available through online lenders, select community banks and credit unions.

Hannah's latest articles

  • SoLo Funds App

    SoLo funds is best for those that are looking for peer-to-peer lending for smaller loans.

    May 01, 2024
  • Bankrate awards 2024 student loans banner featuring a hand holding a graduation cap

    The Best Student Loans of 2024

    Pay for school the smart way. Find a winning lender with our list of the latest and greatest so you can focus on your school, not your school loans.

    Mar 15, 2024

  • Credit-builder Lender Methodology

    Bankrate's editorial team rates credit-builder loan lenders on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, based on factors that fall under 3 categories.

    Feb 20, 2024

  • Student Loan Refinancing Guide

    Bankrate walks through all of the essential steps in the student loan refinancing process, letting you compare rates, start research, or get offers.

    Dec 23, 2023