Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.
Tuesday, September 17th
Loan Away, a Canadian online lender, claims to approve over 80% of personal loan applications, offering one-day funding on loans ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Despite an "A+" rating from the BBB, customer reviews tell a different story, with over 50 1-star reviews complaining about incompetent support, missing payments, and threatening messages from the company. Outdated website content, inactive social media links, and an eight-year-old site copyright are even further proof of Loan Away's lack of credibility, making it a lender we'd avoid.
LendingMate starts out as much more limited than most of the personal loan providers we evaluated: they only operate in two Canadian provinces (ON, BC) now, and you'll only get funded for up to $10,000 if you have someone to serve as a guarantor. Even if you qualify, the BBB and former LendingMate clients would advise you to go elsewhere: an "F” rating and plenty of 1-star reviews speak volumes. LendingMate continues to be one of our least-recommended options when it comes to personal loans in Canada.
In urgent need of some quick cash? Unless you've got a friend or family member ready to lend a hand, your next stop is likely a financial institution. However, not all lending avenues are the same, and some unscrupulous lenders out there are charging interest rates well beyond 100%.
Fortunately, for those seeking personal loans in Canada, there are lenders that can help you bridge the financial gap without sinking you further into trouble. The online world presents Canadian consumers with a wide variety of options for personal loans. Some directly link you with funding, while others act as intermediaries, connecting you with reputable financial partners to secure your loan.
A relatively new player gaining traction is the social lending network, or peer-to-peer lending, where everyday individuals invest in funding loans for their Canadian neighbors. This arrangement creates a win-win, with investors earning on the interest you pay and you getting the funds you need without sky-high rates or fees.
Regardless of the path you choose, it's crucial to understand the terms of any personal loan offers you receive. Not repaying a loan (on time or at all) can have a detrimental impact on your credit score, a setback that can be challenging to set right down the road.
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you're clear on the interest rate, repayment terms, and any potential origination fees or prepayment penalties. While the allure of accepting the first cash offer you receive may be strong, take your time and be a discerning consumer.
As you navigate the array of personal loan options in Canada, you'll need to figure out where to start and which service to trust. Consider these factors:
For an in-depth review of the best online sources for personal loans in Canada, look no further than our list here at Top Consumer Reviews. We're confident that our insights will assist you in quickly getting the funds you need with terms you can manage. Be a well-informed borrower on your financial journey!
Select any 2 Canadian Personal Loans to compare them head to head