Worried man with Christmas bills looking at calculator

Can You Get a Holiday Loan With Bad Credit?

If you’re short on cash around the holidays, a holiday loan can come in handy. You may use them to cover a variety of holiday-related expenses quickly and easily. While some holiday loans come with credit checks, you may still get approved even if you have bad credit.

What is a holiday loan?

Holiday loans are designed for anyone who wants to borrow money around the holiday season, including those who might not have the best credit score. In many cases, you can apply online and get approved right away. Upon approval, you may receive the funds that same day, within 24 hours, or in a few business days. 

You’ll pay back the Christmas loan according to the terms listed in your agreement.

Holiday loans with no credit check

It can be difficult to find holiday loans with no credit check. But the good news is that many bad-credit holiday loans are at your disposal. Some lenders are willing to look beyond your credit score and consider other factors, like your income and employment history, when deciding whether to approve you for a Christmas loan.

4 types of holiday loans for bad credit

There are several types of holiday loans for bad credit, including:

Payday loans. Payday loans are short-term, small-dollar loans you can pay back when you get your next paycheck, typically within two to four weeks. These loans might be a good option if you need fast cash to cover holiday expenses until you get paid.

Installment loans. With installment loans, you’ll get a lump sum of money upfront and pay it back over time (anywhere from a few months to several years) through fixed monthly payments, or installments. If you need a large sum of cash during the holiday season, an installment loan may make sense.

Title loans. Car title loans are secured loans that use your car as collateral. With this type of loan, you’ll give the lender your title in exchange for a lump sum of cash, which will be based on the appraised value of your vehicle. You’ll be able to drive your car as you repay your loan. If you own your car and don’t mind using your title as collateral, a title loan can help you cover expenses around Christmas.

Line of credit. Lines of credit are similar to credit cards but offer lower interest rates and larger amounts. You can withdraw money as much or as little as you’d like up to a set credit limit, and you’ll only pay interest on the amount you borrow. Lines of credit can be worthwhile if you’re unsure of exactly how much money you need during the holiday season.

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What to use a bad-credit holiday loan for

Some of the most common uses for Christmas loans for bad credit include:

Gifts

Chances are you have gifts to buy for your friends and family. Holiday loans for bad credit can make it easier to cover these costs.

Holiday travel

If you have plans to travel over Christmas or New Year’s, for example, you’ll likely need some extra cash for gas, airfare, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. Holiday loans for poor credit may help.

Meals

Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration or attending a potluck, you may have to find a way to pay for meals. Online holiday loans for bad credit can help you do so.

Other holiday-related expenses

You may have other holiday-related expenses, like decorations, greeting cards, flowers, and movie tickets. With Christmas loans for bad credit, you’ll be able to fund them without the hassle.

How to apply for a holiday loan if you have bad credit

1. Choose a holiday loan and lender

Not all Christmas loans for bad credit are created equal. Find several lenders who offer them and compare interest rates, terms, fees, and perks so you can choose the right loan for your situation.

2. Gather all necessary documents

Before you apply for a bad credit holiday loan, you’ll need a few documents on hand. These include a government-issued ID, like your driver’s license or passport, pay stubs, and tax forms.

3. Fill out an online or in-store application

Next, visit the lender’s website or stop by their store location to complete the application process. You’ll need to share a few basic personal and financial details about yourself, like proof of income and bank account information.

4. Submit your holiday loan application

Double-check your holiday loan application for any errors and inaccuracies. Submit it once you’re confident that it’s complete and accurate.

5. Receive your funds

Once you’re approved, the lender should distribute the funds fairly quickly. You may receive them via direct deposit, prepaid card, or check.

Is a holiday loan available online?

Fortunately, many lenders offer holiday loans for bad credit online. If you’d like to take one out, visit a lender’s website and find the loan application. Then, fill it out accurately from the comfort of your own home. Be prepared to submit a few documents too. This process should only take a few minutes.

Get a holiday loan today

Advance America offers a variety of loans for bad credit that you can use to cover essential or emergency expenses around the holidays. These include payday loans, installment loans, title loans, and lines of credit. You may apply online and get your money quickly, sometimes within 24 hours.

Notice: Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Consult your attorney or financial advisor about your financial circumstances.

Our dedicated editorial team is committed to helping you navigate your financial journey with confidence. For over 25 years, Advance America has empowered individuals to achieve financial stability both now and in the future. 

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