Upgrade: Best for paying off debt
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Bankrate Score = 4.6/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
The annual percentage (APR) includes your interest rate, plus any loan fees. It reflects the total cost of borrowing.
This lender is registered in states where it does business, has a Consumer Loan Company License and was vetted by the Bankrate Editorial team.
Upgrade took home two Bankrate Awards in 2025, best for first-in-class customer experience and best for borrowers with bad credit. It stands out for its range of loan terms and its direct payment to lenders – apt for those paying off debt.
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- At least 18 years old
- Valid email address
- Valid bank account
- 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee
- $10 late fee
- $10 returned check fee
Within one business day if sent to borrower; up to two weeks if sent directly to creditors
Pros
- Option to add a co-borrower
- Range of loan amounts
- Direct debt consolidation disbursement
Personal loans made through Upgrade feature Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) of 7.99%-35.99%. All personal loans have a 1.85% to 9.99% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. Loans feature repayment terms of 24 to 84 months. For example, if you receive a $10,000 loan with a 36-month term and a 17.59% APR (which includes a 13.94% yearly interest rate and a 5% one-time origination fee), you would receive $9,500 in your account and would have a required monthly payment of $341.48. Over the life of the loan, your payments would total $12,293.46. The APR on your loan may be higher or lower and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. Actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early. Personal loans issued by Upgrade's bank partners. Information on Upgrade's bank partners can be found at https://www.upgrade.com/bank-partners/.