Loans for Bad Credit in California
We understand that unexpected expenses are often unavoidable, and that getting a loan with bad credit can make a bad situation worse. The OppLoans platform is here to help Californians access credit when it is most needed.
Loans from
$500 - $5,000
Repayment term4
9 - 18 Months
APR
160% - 195%
The figures above are examples of our lending partner’s typical installment loan offers and do not serve as guarantee of any rates & terms that you may qualify for.
Testimonials reflect the individual's opinion and may not be illustrative of all individual experiences with OppLoans.
Personal loans serviced by OppLoans are often borrowed by customers who cannot obtain a traditional loan through a bank or credit union. This is made possible by our bank partners, who look beyond FICO® credit scores when determining the eligibility of applicants. If approved, loans can be funded as soon as the same business day.1 The funds can cover emergency expenses such as a car repair, home improvement, travel costs, or any other financial obligation. Applying does NOT affect your FICO® credit score.2
Why choose the OppLoans platform for a loan in California
If your credit history isn't perfect, don't worry – we're here for you! Our dedication to outstanding customer service, combined with our bank partners, enables us to assist those who may experience difficulty at a traditional financial institution.
- Easy to Apply: Apply online from start to finish with the simplified application process.
- Same-Day Funding Available: If approved, you may receive money in your account as soon as the same business day!1
- Loan Support At Every Step: Our top-rated Customer Advocates are available to provide support at every step of the application process.
- No Hidden Fees: No origination fees. No application fees. No prepayment penalties.
Rates of our bank lending partners in California
The annual percentage rates (APR) for a personal loan in California offered by our bank partners and serviced through OppLoans ranges from 160% to 195%.4 Through the OppLoans platform, our bank partners offer simple interest loans and may be able to work with you to structure a flexible repayment plan.
Visit our California Rates and Terms page for more details.
Do all personal loans in California require a credit check?
Traditional lenders typically require a credit check before approving an installment loan. Our bank partners that lend on the OppLoans platform may use credit report information provided by Clarity Services and Experian as part of the application process to determine your creditworthiness. Neither credit inquiry will appear as a hard credit inquiry on your Experian credit report, and therefore they will not affect your FICO score.² Our bank partners make decisions based on an applicant’s overall creditworthiness.
The OppLoans platform simplifies the borrowing process for individuals with lower credit scores. Many banks and credit unions will not even consider a loan if your credit score is too low, but our bank partners will.
More About California
California has the largest economy in the United States, with an estimated $4.1 trillion in gross domestic product in 2024. While the economy is diverse, it is best known for its contributions to the technology sector, with Silicon Valley becoming the epicenter of tech innovation. As such, the San Francisco Bay area is the headquarters to many publicly listed tech giants, including the likes of Apple Inc., Alphabet Inc. (Google), Meta Inc. (Facebook), and Netflix, to name just a few.
California has the 3rd highest cost of living, with only Hawaii and Massachusetts recognized as more unaffordable. It also has some of the highest taxes, with the state income tax rate ranging from 1% to 13.3% and the state sales tax rate at 8.85% in 2024. While it may be considered an expensive state, the median household income is $17,802 above the national average, at $95,521 in 2024.
Californian provides financial assistance to its residents through programs hosted by BenefitsCal. For a family or individual that is struggling financially, it is a place to find help affording groceries through the CalFresh program, to apply for health coverage, or to seek cash assistance. Other programs and benefits can be found on the BenefitsCal website.
FAQs
Through the OppLoans platform, California residents with lower credit may qualify for an online personal loan from $500 to $5,000.4 The platform performs a soft credit check, so applying won't negatively impact your FICO® score.2
Yes, personal loans are legal in California. Through the OppLoans platform, our bank partners offer installment loans for borrowers with poor credit.
The first step in applying for a loan with one of our bank partners is to complete our online loan application. To be eligible for one of our bank partners' loans through the OppLoans platform, potential borrowers must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a bank account (checking or savings account)
- Reside in one of the states in which we currently operate
- Have a regular source of income
- Receive income through direct deposit
- Loan Amount: $500 - $5,000
- Repayment Term: 9 - 18 Months4
- APR: 160% - 195%