# Best Personal Loans of May 2026
Money Magazine's latest rankings identify the top personal loan options for borrowers in May 2026. The publication evaluated lenders based on interest rates, fees, approval timelines, and borrower requirements to help consumers find the right fit.
Top performers offer competitive rates starting as low as 6.5 percent APR for qualified applicants with excellent credit. Lenders like LendingClub, Upstart, and Marcus by Goldman Sachs dominate the rankings, each serving different borrower profiles.
LendingClub leads for borrowers seeking fast funding, with approval decisions in under 24 hours. Marcus stands out for eliminating origination fees entirely, saving borrowers hundreds of dollars upfront. Upstart appeals to those with limited credit history, using alternative data to assess creditworthiness.
Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, with repayment terms spanning two to seven years. Borrowers should check their credit score before applying. Those with scores above 740 unlock the best rates, while scores between 600 and 739 still qualify but face higher APRs.
The publication recommends comparing at least three lenders before committing. Getting multiple quotes doesn't hurt your credit score through hard inquiries within 14 to 45 days, depending on the lender's reporting method.