Upgrade, founded in 2016, is an online marketplace lender, connecting borrowers with various loan options from lenders in its network.
Upgrade offers fixed-rate personal installment loans that can be used for refinancing, debt consolidation, and other large expenses/purchases. You can expect the following from a loan through Upgrade:
Upgrade does not disclose a minimum credit score requirement, but a borrower should strive to have fair credit, if not good to excellent credit, to qualify for the best rates and terms.
Keep reading for pros and cons, plus Upgrade reviews from real customers.
Upgrade's intuitive initial online loan application only takes a few minutes to complete. You simply select the loan amount you are looking to borrow; describe the reason for taking out the loan; and provide your name, address, date of birth, income, and email address. From there, you'll see your preapproved loan offers from Upgrade's lending partners.
Once you select an offer, Upgrade will get in touch to complete any necessary verification. Upgrade has extremely fast approval and funding times. Once you accept a loan offer, Upgrade will transfer money to your bank account within a day of clearing necessary verifications.
Upgrade accepts joint applications and cosigners. Not all lenders offer this option when applying for a personal loan. It is particularly beneficial for borrowers with poor credit who may not be approved on their own, or for those who would like to get the lowest interest rate possible by applying with a stronger credit score than their own.
Upgrade does not charge a prepayment penalty fee if you'd like to pay off your loan faster than the end of your loan term. Doing so can save you more money on interest.
This lender offers free credit score monitoring services through its website. This is available for borrowers and non-borrowers alike, who are wishing to improve their credit.
Upgrade's credit health services provide the following:
These services can ensure that you know where your credit score is at any time.
In addition, Upgrade also has a variety of educational articles and resources that can help you understand how credit scores work and how you can make sure that yours is in good condition.
Of the 240+ Upgrade loan reviews, 86 percent of customers gave the company 5 stars.
Many customers highlight good experiences with customer service, in addition to a fast loan application, and equally fast processing and transfer of funds.
Complaints are minimal, but some customers remark that the origination fee is higher than they would have liked and/or expected.
It is important to note that Upgrade personal loans are not offered in Iowa and West Virginia. If you are looking for an installment loan and reside in either of these states, you will need to look for another lender.
Upgrade charges a 2.9 percent to 8 percent origination fee. This amount is deducted from the loan prior to customers receiving their funds in their bank account. Though this is typical for the industry, some competitors do not charge origination fees.
Be aware that Upgrade has a $10 late fee, which is applied if your full payment hasn't been received within a grace period of 15 days from your due date.
In addition, if you try to make a payment, but your payment or check is returned or rejected by your financial institution, there is a non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee of $10.
If you are having trouble making loan payments, Upgrade urges borrowers to contact customer support for options before you look into debt settlement companies.
The minimum loan amount available in Georgia and Massachusetts varies from the $1,000 available in all other eligible states:
This may restrict borrowers who are looking to borrow just a small amount.
Upgrade offers personal installment loans with a simple application process and an equally fast approval process. Once a borrower has accepted a loan offer from one of Upgrade's network lenders, money can be deposited into the borrower's bank account within 24 hours, though it can take up to four business days for your financial institution to make the funds available.
Through Upgrade, you can count on ideal loan terms of 60 months, fixed interest rates, and no prepayment fees if you are able to pay your personal loan off early. However, keep in mind that the company does charge an origination fee, but it is included in your quoted APR.
On top of that, Upgrade helps to provide credit monitoring with a VantageScore credit score simulator and suggestions for improvement. This is a unique and beneficial offering, especially if you are looking to increase your credit score by taking out a personal loan.
The majority of Upgrade loan reviews are positive, with the majority of customers awarding 5 stars, suggesting that it is a reliable company for your personal loan needs.
Have you taken out a personal loan from Upgrade? Let us know about your experience with a quick review below.
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*Personal loans made through Upgrade feature APRs of 6.94%-35.97%. All personal loans have a 2.9% to 8% origination fee, which is deducted from the loan proceeds. Lowest rates require Autopay and paying off a portion of existing debt directly. For example, if you receive a $10,000 loan with a 36-month term and a 17.98% APR (which includes a 14.32% yearly interest rate and a 5% one-time origination fee), you would receive $9,500 in your account and would have a required monthly payment of $343.33. Over the life of the loan, your payments would total $12,359.97. The APR on your loan may be higher or lower and your loan offers may not have multiple term lengths available. Actual rate depends on credit score, credit usage history, loan term, and other factors. Late payments or subsequent charges and fees may increase the cost of your fixed rate loan. There is no fee or penalty for repaying a loan early.
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246 Reviews
Review Breakdown
Sentiment Criteria
Ardelle Faralli
Customer service was great & very helpful. Didn't take long to get approved & receive the money in my account. My credit cards I chose were paid off quickly. I've paid off other expenses & I feel good that I only have one monthly bill to pay instead of multiple bills. Thank you Upgrade so much!
G Dukes
Great application process - I had already gotten a credit card from Upgrade, and decided on using them for a debt consolidation load. Everything online, quick results, fair offer - I have no complaints!
Glenn Martin
The process was quick and easy went smoothly
David Sawyer
It was fast and convenient. The staff was real helpful.
Mim Lauj
So far so good! I had been stressing out about applying for a loan for a long time to pay off my credit card. I felt ashamed of my debt and didn't really want to deal with a person. I finally got around to looking at some of the online lenders. With Upgrade, I liked that I could see what my rate would be at various loan amounts and time frame to pay back before I decided to apply for the loan. Other lenders also have that capability without impacting your credit score too. Upgrade had the best rate for me and I like that there's no hidden fees. I applied after 7 pm on a Thursday, got approved Friday morning and had the funds deposited into the funds I requested on Tuesday. The first payment is due 30 after funds are released, but I like that I can change the payment date after that if it doesn't work out. It's been a huge relief knowing that I can be done with my debt in 3 years or sooner, versus the never ending battle with my credit card.
Justin Montgomery
Great from rates and to process the loan
Ruben Alconero
I had an upgrade loan in the past which was completed overnight a few years ago, this one took over two weeks. I had to have a three way call with my bank, and fill out an employment verification form while I am employed. I was then told with 23 years at American Airlines i was considered to be in a shaky business. The paperwork to my employer was repeatedly sent to my manager as he was the person applying for the loan. When all that was sorted out, I was told Upgrade needed verification that it was my manager that sent it. I said he sent it from his email, what more do you want. I have a 800 plus credit score and a six figure income, and felt as if I had been bankrupt applying for a 3rd rate loan... I was really surprised being a prior customer. I honestly almost pulled the application and went to Prosper.
Joseph King
My interactions with their employees have been positive but their loan sign up system seems a little clunky. I applied for the loan and signed up for PenFed on December 21st. I received a call from Upgrade around December 30th thru January 2nd who advised my sign up for PenFed sign up didn't register and the person I spoke to said they would update their system. I received another call on January 5th about the same issue and was advised that this time it was noted. The funds finally cleared on January 8th. The calls weren't unpleasant and their employees were helpful, but it appears there could be some issues with capturing all the relevant information at the time of sign up.
David Bankowski
Simple Easy and quick funding. Would recommend to my friends.
Clara Goodreau
Upgrade was very professional. This loan went through very fast, with no problems. They were very friendly and very helpful. All taken care of on the internet and a phone call. I really appreciate all the help and how fast it all took place. Thank you so much, CG
Jones no
I had to call in almost half a dozen times after I applied. I almost just was about to give up. The only reason I stayed was because your interest rate was slightly better. This was probably one of the worst experiences I have ever had and believe me I’ve had a few.
Steven Bishop
Very easy to get ahold of. God customer service. Always friendly on the phone
MONICA CRUZ
Very easy to apply. They transferred funds fast and easy.
Nancy Trimble
It was so easy to get my loan..and quick!
JW
It was very easy to get the loan. The process was quick and painless. The terms were fair and repayment was very easy with the automatic withdrawals from my checking account. If I need to change the date of the automatic withdrawal I have that option as well. I am very pleased, this is my 2nd loan
Lee Blanchard
Approval in 1 day. I received funding the following day, and the cards I consolidated were paid off within 3 days. Great application process, quick approval and a VERY competitive rate. I would definitely recommend Upgrade!
Jackie Moore
The application process was easy and the website user friendly. The processing time was very quick and efficient, with the monies deposited within one day after approval.
Julie Guyette
From start to finish, the process was seamless, the folks professional, the funds delivered quickly. Upstart was such a help to me and my budget -- I am so appreciative!! Thanks much!!
Concerning Fees
Smooth approval process. HOWEVER, the origination fee is outrageous and leaves a bad taste. I understand companies go into business to make money, but the "origination fee" combined with the above than average interest rate is concerning and out of control. I was desperate to obtain a credit card consolidation loan and this was a last option. Only recommend this as a last ditch effort.
Anita Sanders
It was extremely easy to apply and receive the loan & everything was done electronically and the funds were distributed sooner than anticipated. The interest rates are better than another company that I used previously and is allowing me to consolidate my loans. Great Company! I am very pleased with my service !
Andrew Kuron
Was much easier than I had expected, safer too
Carl Johnson
The process was very easy and enjoyable.
Valerie MacKenzie
The process has been fast and easy. The part I dislike the most is having to have the first payment taken out of my account automatically.
Kimberly Byrd
The loan process was simple and fast. I am grateful for the opportunity.
Lori A
Amazing customer service! I was very pleased with the whole experience. So easy to do the paperwork and was happy how fast the process went
Tara Howerton
Fast, efficient process. And soooo easy!
Tony Knock
Could not make getting a loan easier. Done with app in minutes funded in 48 hours. Amazing!
Sylvia
Easy to apply. But after loan was approved I was locked out of their website. My personal information is in their records. I will notify the State Attorney General and the Cyber Crime Div. of the FBI
Jessica miller
The employee's were very nice an polite, they really walked me thru every step to getting my loan started such a great group..
mmcquain
Good, fast communication. Easy application process with quick approval time. Monies transferred quickly and I'm on my way to better financial health. Thank You Upgrade!!
Tim Endersby
Easy to work with, fast approval, decent interest rate
Robert Ponticelli
I enjoyed the entire experience. Follow through was steady and quick. No pressure, just a comfortable feeling. I knew that I was dealing with a top notch company. I would not hesitate to recommend them to any family member or friend.
Joe Johnson
I wanted to consolidate some debt. The service was fast and friendly and Ihad my funds in a few days!
Michael B
The process was fast and simple. Excellent service overall. Will recommend to family and friends and will use Upgrade in the future with no hesitation.
Joe M
Great service and very efficient process
Kathy Mills
Great experience from start to finish. Quick approval and funds disbursement. Recommend highly to anyone with Good rated credit and above.
Donnette
I like upgrade because it gives me a chance when nobody will a chance to consolidate my credit cards that was killing me . The process is easy and fast , And it gives me a completely Lay out about my loan and how the payment Is going to be .and it’s affordable . They saw that My payments history was excellent despite the fact that my credit cards were high and they give me that chance to run with it. I can’t say that there’s anything that I don’t like about them
Arthur Hubbard
Very simple took about a week would recemend
Sylvia
That I didn’t have to send anything in just rely on my social security number, name & date of birth. That’s all that was needed to get a loan. Most loans require copy of this & that!! But it was so nice & easy!!!
Stephen Romano
Sign up for loan was quick and well organized on website. Loan review and approval was quick and dispersal of funds to credit card companies was efficient.
sexyj76
Very easy to apply for. I have bad credit and they were still able to provide a loan for me. Customer service was friendly and very knowledgeable of what I needed done on my end to make sure the process ran smoothly.
Debra
The speed of the whole process without hidden agendas....
Karen Robinson
The loan process was very quick and simple. Thank you for giving me a chance to clean up my debt by consolidating my credit cards. I will be highly recommending your company.
Joshua Wolf
I like how the service was quick and responsive to meet my needs!!!
JAMES E GOOCH
very smooth transaction and professional thank you
JTE
I like that it only took couple days to get approved and money sent in to my account.
Kctexas
It was a great experience. Super easy with no hassles.
James B MCDONALD
Slow to get back on docs needed and status response
Bogdan Mihail
Very nice people and helpful with the process for getting the loan and submitting the necessary documents
Kathy Armijo
I did not experience any problems or issues. I did not feel rushed to complete and the process was easy.