PoundWise Team: A personal loan usually lets you borrow a fixed amount and repay it in set monthly instalments over an agreed term, often without securing it against your home. Compare the total amount repayable and the representative APR, not just the monthly payment, because a longer term can cost more overall. Check your budget carefully, review the lender’s eligibility criteria and consider using an eligibility checker that performs a soft credit search where available. Before applying, make sure the lender is FCA-authorised and read the agreement for fees, missed-payment consequences and any early-repayment charges.