What Is a Personal Loan?
A personal loan provides funding in a lump sum amount, where monthly payments are typically fixed throughout the loan. Usually, a personal loan is unsecured, which means that it doesn’t require collateral. CreditNinja recommends installment loans over single-payment loans because they can be easier to repay and sometimes more affordable.
What Are the Types of Personal Loans You Can Get?
Personal loans, secured personal loans, expense-specific personal loans, and bad credit personal loans are all options for borrowers in Chesapeake. Along with personal loans, you’ll find a few other loans and loan categories, which we will discuss below:
Bad Credit Loans
Bad credit loans are for borrowers who don’t have the best credit, and several different loans can fit under this category. Bad credit personal loans may be more manageable than something like a payday loan.
Payday Loans
Payday loans are short-term loans that are repaid in a short amount of time, usually within two weeks. While they may be convenient and flexible for borrowers who need funding fast and don’t have the best credit, they can quickly lead to a cycle of debt! So avoid them if possible, but if you do go with a payday loan, find a trusted lender.
No Credit Check Loans
No credit check loans are lending options that don’t require a credit check. For those who need fast funds or don’t have great credit history, one of these loans may seem like a good option. However, they usually come with a tough repayment plan and can lead to a cycle of debt.
Cash Advance Loans
Cash advance loans make a small amount of cash available. The most common type of cash advance is a cash advance through a credit card. Usually, you’ll only get a few hundred dollars that need to be repaid as quickly as most payday loans so about 2 weeks. You are better off getting an installment loan, which may provide more time to repay.
Chesapeake Installment Loans
Chesapeake installment loans are a popular financing option because they provide borrowers with predictable payments and a clear payoff timeline, making them easier to manage than revolving credit or short-term cash advances. With installment loans, borrowers receive a lump sum upfront and repay it in fixed payments over time, which helps with budgeting and long-term financial planning. Here are some of the terms of installment loans that are common:
- Loan Amounts — Installment loans typically offer a range of loan amounts, allowing borrowers to choose an option that fits their specific financial needs, whether covering unexpected expenses or larger planned costs.
- Fixed Interest Rates — These loans generally come with fixed interest rates, meaning the rate stays the same throughout the life of the loan, providing consistency and protection from fluctuating costs.
- Repayment Terms — Repayment terms are set in advance and spread over multiple payments, giving borrowers more time and flexibility to repay compared to short-term alternatives.
- Fees and Penalties — Installment loans usually have clearly disclosed fees and penalties, so borrowers know upfront what charges may apply, helping avoid surprise costs when payments are made on time.
- Online Loan Management — Many installment loans can be managed online, allowing borrowers to check balances, make payments, and track their loan progress conveniently from anywhere.
Chesapeake Installment Loan Rates
Here is an example of a hypothetical loan, so you can understand how loan lengths can impact repayment. A $500 installment loan with a 36% APR would be repaid through fixed monthly payments over a chosen term length. The APR is divided into a monthly interest rate, which is applied over the life of the loan to determine the payment amount. Shorter terms result in higher monthly payments but lower total interest, while longer terms reduce the monthly payment but increase the total cost of borrowing.
| Term Length (Months) | APR as Low As | Estimated Monthly Payment Range |
| 0–4 | 36% | $126.85 – $171.97 |
| 4–8 | 36% | $69.39 – $126.85 |
| 8–12 | 36% | $49.02 – $69.39 |
| 12–24 | 36% | $29.52 – $49.02 |
Loan details in the table are illustrative and not guaranteed. It does not constitute an offer, commitment, or guarantee of any specific loan terms. Final terms depend on creditworthiness, underwriting, and law. Contact the lender for personalized offers.
Can You Get a Bad Credit Loan in Virginia?
Getting a bad credit loan in Chesapeake is possible even if your credit score isn’t perfect. Many lenders focus on your current financial situation rather than just your past credit history. When you apply, you’ll typically need to meet basic eligibility requirements such as being at least 18 years old, having a steady source of income, an active bank account, and valid identification.
What Can You Use An Installment Loan in Chesapeake For?
An installment loan can be used for all kinds of expenses, like home improvement, credit card consolidation, medical costs, car repair, and all kinds of emergencies.
Home ImprovementAn installment loan can help you cover necessary home repairs or upgrades without paying the full cost upfront. You repay the loan in fixed monthly payments, making larger projects easier to budget for. |
Credit Card Debt ConsolidationYou can use an installment loan (more specifically, a debt consolidation loan) to combine multiple high-interest credit card balances into one monthly payment. Consolidating debt can simplify your finances and help you pay down debt more predictably. |
Medical CostsInstallment loans can help you manage unexpected medical bills or out-of-pocket expenses not fully covered by insurance. Fixed payments allow you to spread the cost over time instead of paying all at once. |
Car RepairsIf your vehicle needs urgent repairs, an installment loan can provide quick access to funds to get you back on the road. Monthly payments help you handle the expense without disrupting your budget. |
Life EventsMajor life events like moving, weddings, getting a new vehicle (via an auto loan or otherwise), or family emergencies often come with unexpected costs. An installment loan can give you financial flexibility during these transitions. |
Other Emergency ExpensesFor unexpected expenses such as utility bills, travel emergencies, or essential purchases, an installment loan offers structured repayment instead of short-term financial strain. |
How Chesapeake Loan Options Work
Typically, personal loans or installment loans will have between three to five steps. You’ll have to fill out an application with your information, including your income. After your information is verified, you may get approved and receive your funding.
Apply Online Fast & EasyThe first step is to apply. With most online lenders, banks, and credit unions, you’ll be able to apply online. |
Income VerificationThe next step is income verification, as well as verification of your personal details. |
Same-Day AvailabilityOnce you receive loan approval, you’ll get the terms, which you can review. If everything looks good, sign, and get funding. Some lenders may have same-day availability. |
Top Chesapeake Loan FAQs
What is an installment loan?
An installment loan is a type of loan where you receive a lump sum of money and repay it in regular monthly payments over a set period of time. These loans are beneficial because they offer predictable payments and a clear payoff date, making them easier to manage than revolving credit.
How much can I borrow with a personal loan with bad credit?
Loan amounts vary by lender and typically depend on your income, repayment ability, and overall financial profile rather than just your credit score. Borrowers with bad credit may qualify for smaller to moderate loan amounts, with limits increasing as eligibility factors improve.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Eligibility requirements usually include being at least 18 years old, having a steady source of income, an active bank account, and valid identification. Lenders may also consider your employment status, monthly expenses, and ability to repay when reviewing your application.
How quickly can you get funding from a personal loan?
Once approved, many personal loans are funded within one business day, and some lenders offer same-day deposits if you need money quickly. These quick loans are designed to provide fast access to cash for urgent financial needs, depending on your bank and application timing.
CreditNinja does not act as a direct lender in all states. In certain states, loan products are offered and originated via bank partners, which are duly licensed financial institutions. The availability of loans and the identity of the originating lender may vary depending on state of residence and applicable state and federal regulations.
Izzy is a copywriter and social media specialist at CreditNinja, specializing in personal finance and branded content. With six years of professional experience, her expertise includes fraud prevention, budgeting, debt repayment, and subprime lending. Izzy earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature in 2017.

