How to borrow
What to check before you apply, how to read an offer, and how to compare two loans on the number that matters.
Before you apply
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
How to get a loan
From budget to signature in order, including the four numbers every loan disclosure must show.
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
Prequalification explained
A soft-check rate estimate, not an offer. Why a 14% estimate can become 19% and how to shop around.
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
Secured vs. unsecured loans
Collateral can cut your rate, as with 7.17% car loans vs 11.90% personal loans. Here's what you risk for it.
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
Cosigners and co-borrowers
A cosigner can owe the full balance, fees included. What the required notice says and how to get released.
Reading and comparing offers
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
Comparing loan offers
Three $10,000 quotes worked out: the lowest rate had a 14.06% APR, and the lowest payment cost $1,064.76 more.
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
APR vs. interest rate
A 4% fee turns a 9% rate into an 11.81% APR over 36 months, and 16.77% over 12. The math, step by step.
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Guide · updated Oct 13, 2026
Origination fees
A 6% fee on $10,000 at 12% means $9,400 in hand and a 16.36% APR. How to weigh a loan with a fee.