What is an installment loan? With installment loans, borrowers might get a large sum of money upfront and then make fixed monthly payments to repay the amount plus interest over a predetermined period. Through the flexibility of managing repayment through foreseeable, periodic payments, people can use this sort of borrowing to suit their financial demands. Use Beem to compare personal loan options without credit restrictions to achieve your financial goals and move toward a more secure financial future. The most recent market figures show that 22.5 million Americans owe personal loans totaling $222 billion. That’s more than double the $102 billion owed in 2016, demonstrating the popularity of personal loans.
How Does an Installment Loan Work?
Now that we have answered the question, ‘What is an installment loan,’ let’s understand how installment loans online work.
- Borrowing: The borrower must submit an online installment loan application to a lender for a particular loan amount to receive an installment loan. The lender considers the borrower’s creditworthiness, income, and other relevant factors to determine whether they are qualified for the loan and at what interest rate.
- Approval and Conditions: If approved, the borrower will get the required cash in a lump sum. The loan conditions, which cover the interest rate and repayment schedule, are agreed upon between the borrower and the lender.
- Fixed Payments: For the agreed-upon term, the loan is repaid through fixed monthly payments. Principal and interest are included in each payment, allowing the borrower to gradually pay down the principal sum.
- Complete Repayment: The borrower makes regular payments until needed. As each installment is in, the outstanding debt decreases until the loan amount settles.
- Prepayment: Some installment loans may allow borrowers to make prepayments or pay off the entire loan before the term ends. However, checking the loan terms is essential, as some lenders may charge prepayment penalties.
Types of Installment Loans
Several personal installment loans are available to borrowers, each tailored to meet specific financial needs and situations. Here are the most common types of installment loans:
Personal Installment Loans
Personal installment loans are general-purpose loans that borrowers can use for various personal expenses, such as medical bills, home improvements, debt consolidation, or unexpected expenses. These loans typically do not require collateral and are based on the borrower’s creditworthiness and income.
Auto Loans
Auto installment loans finance the cost of purchasing a car. Borrowers benefit from cheaper interest rates than they would with an unsecured personal loan when a vehicle is collateral for a loan. The loan term is commonly correlated with the projected lifespan of the vehicle, which typically runs from two to seven years.
Mortgage Loans
Mortgage installment loans are long-term loans to finance real estate purchases, such as homes. These loans often have extended repayment terms, ranging from 15 to 30 years. The property works like collateral for the loan, and if the borrower fails to repay, the lender can foreclose on the property.
Student Loans
Student installment loans help students finance their education expenses. These loans come with favorable repayment terms and interest rates compared to other loans. Federal and private student loans are available, each with different terms and eligibility criteria.
Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit
Home equity loans and HELOCs are secured installment loans that allow homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes. While home equity loans provide a lump sum amount, HELOCs provide a revolving line of credit. The home is collateral, and the interest rates are typically lower than unsecured loans.
Debt Consolidation Loans
Debt consolidation installment loans can consolidate multiple debts into one loan with one monthly payment. By combining debts, borrowers can simplify their finances and potentially secure a lower interest rate, making it easier to manage their debt.
| Type of Installment Loan | Purpose | Collateral Needed | Loan Term | Example Use Cases |
| Personal Installment Loans | General-purpose expenses | Usually unsecured | Short to medium term | Medical bills, home improvements, debt consolidation |
| Auto Loans | Financing vehicle purchases | Vehicle serves as collateral | Short to medium term | Buying a car or other vehicles |
| Mortgage Loans | Financing real estate purchases | Property serves as collateral | Long term | Buying a home or property |
| Student Loans | Financing education expenses | Usually unsecured | Long term | Paying for college or university expenses |
| Home Equity Loans | Borrowing against home equity | Home serves as collateral | Short to medium term | Home renovations, debt consolidation |
| HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) | Borrowing against home equity | Home serves as collateral | Revolving line of credit | Ongoing expenses or large projects |
| Debt Consolidation Loans | Consolidating multiple debts | Usually unsecured | Short to medium term | Combining credit card debts, loans, and bills |
| Online Installment Loans | General-purpose expenses (online) | Usually unsecured | Short to medium term | Quick access to funds for various purposes |
Where to Get an Installment Loan
Banks
Traditional brick-and-mortar banks offer installment loans to their existing customers and potential borrowers. Banks typically have strict credit requirements, and the application process may involve providing detailed financial information.
Online Lenders
Many online lending platforms and financial institutions offer installment loans online. Online lenders often have a more streamlined application process, and you can apply from home. They may cater to borrowers with varying credit profiles.
Peer-to-Peer Lending Platforms
Peer-to-peer lending platforms connect individual investors with borrowers. These platforms can be a good option if you seek an alternative to traditional lenders.
Online Marketplaces
Some online marketplaces provide access to multiple lenders, allowing you to compare installment loans online and choose the best one.
Credit Card Companies
Some credit card companies offer installment loan options to their cardholders. Link these loans to your credit card account keeping in mind specific terms and conditions.
Specialized Lenders
Some lenders specialize in specific types of installment loans, like auto or student loans. If you have a particular financing need, you may find lenders that cater to that specific market.
Also Know About: Installment Loans vs Revolving Credit
Conclusion
When posed with the question, what is an installment loan, you now understand that personal installment loans provide individuals with a structured and manageable approach to borrowing money for various purposes. With fixed monthly payments over a specific term, borrowers can plan their finances more effectively, address their needs, and track credit without the pressure of immediate full repayment. The Beem Credit Score Simulator is an online tool that can help you better plan your credit, including loans and cards.
Understanding the types of installment loans available and exploring reputable lenders can help borrowers find the best option to suit their financial requirements. Use Beem to compare different loan options ranging from $500 to $100,000 and stay on top of your financial game.
FAQs
1. What Is the Difference Between an Installment Loan and a Payday Loan?
The critical difference is in the repayment structure. Installment loans are repaid in fixed monthly installments over time, while payday loans are typically due in full on the borrower’s next payday.
2. Are Installment Loans Available for People With Bad Credit?
Yes. Some lenders offer installment loans to individuals with bad credit. However, they may come with higher interest rates and less favorable terms.
3. Can I Use an Installment Loan to Consolidate My Debts?
A personal installment loan can help with debt consolidation. Borrowers can streamline their payments and potentially secure a lower interest rate by using the loan to pay off multiple debts. However, assessing the overall cost and impact on one’s financial situation is essential before consolidating debts.
