5 Things to Know Before Your First Loan Application
If you're considering applying for your first personal loan, it’s important that you know certain information, both so you can provide it to potential lenders and for your own awareness. Some of these things you may know off the top of your head, like your income, but there are also things you'll want to look into before you apply for your loan, such as your credit score. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you apply and why.
1. Credit score and credit history
A good credit score and credit history show lenders that you pay your credit obligations on time. The better your credit, the better your chances of securing a loan at the most favorable terms. The best terms can save you thousands over the life of your loan. For example, here’s what a 2- or 4-percentage-point difference in interest can mean for your wallet on a $25,000 loan paid over five years:
Interest rate | Monthly payment | Total interest paid |
|---|---|---|
6% | $483 | $3,999 |
8% | $507 | $5,415 |
10% | $531 | $6,871 |
In this case, the difference between a 6% and 10% interest rate is $2,872 in interest over five years. This number increases substantially if you’re considering a larger, longer-term loan.
Before you apply for a loan, check your credit score and reports for errors that could drag down your score. If your credit isn’t in great shape, we’d recommend holding off on applying for a loan, if possible. In the meantime, work to improve your credit to save yourself potentially thousands of dollars.
2. Income
Your take-home pay affects your ability to pay off a loan, so you’ll need to have proof of income for your application. If you’re an employee, you’ll need pay stubs, W-2 forms and/or a salary letter from your employer. If you’re a self-employed applicant, you’ll need tax returns for the past two-plus years and possibly invoices and receipts.
Of course, you have to know just how much you’re bringing home each month so you'll know whether you can afford monthly loan payments. Remember to think about all of your income sources, not just your primary one. This may include a spouse’s income, child support and second-job or freelancing income.
3. Monthly debt payments
Your income is only one part of the equation; it’s also important to know your monthly debt obligations. If your income is $5,000 a month but you pay $4,500 each month toward your debts, you won’t realistically be able to pay off a new loan. A loan application will likely require you to list certain obligations — typically your rent or mortgage payment and existing payments toward credit cards or other debts.
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