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If you're currently on disability, it's important to know that you may qualify for a personal loan. How easy it will be depends on the type of disability you're receiving and the kind of loan you're looking for. Keep reading to learn more about landing a loan while on disability and how it could impact your monthly benefits. Can you get a loan while on disability?You can get a loan while on disability if you qualify. Typical requirements include a minimum credit score and a maximum amount of existing debt (this varies based on your income). How long it takes to get a loan varies, but it shouldn't take more than a few days for many loans How can a loan affect disability benefits?A loan could change your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility. According to the Social Security Administration, a loan is not considered income. However, if you borrow money and don't spend it the same month, it will count toward your resource limit. If your resources exceed allowable limits, you will not receive SSI benefits for that month. So if you get SSI, don't apply for your loan before you need it and consider applying at the end of the month. Types of disability loansIf you plan to get a loan while on disability, the type of loan you get will depend on why you need it. Here are some options. Personal loanA personal loan can be used for a variety of reasons, including to finance medical expenses or an engagement ring. Most of these loans don't require collateral. To get an unsecured personal loan while on disability, you will need to satisfy the lender's minimum credit score. You'll also need to prove you can pay for the new loan on top of any existing debt. This can be an obstacle for people on disability, because you're receiving a very modest income. So there isn't much room for new debt payments. For help finding out about these limits, read up on the maximum you can borrow with a personal loan. Or you can check with one of the personal loan lenders on our list. Mortgage loanYou may be able to use your long-term or permanent disability income to qualify for a mortgage. Some home loan programs will even give you special benefits if you are disabled. For example, if you're a disabled veteran, you can apply for a waiver of the VA loan funding fee. Or if your income is low, the USDA has the Single Family Housing Direct Loan program, where the government pays a portion of your mortgage payment. You can find out more in our guide to USDA loans. If you are on short-term disability, you can only count on those payments for a limited amount of time. Since your disability income will end, your mortgage application might be declined if you have no other sources of income. However, if you are still employed and can document that you have a job to return to after your disability benefits end, the mortgage lender may consider your regular income in addition to your disability income. Disability loanSome people look for a loan to bridge the gap between becoming disabled and the time they begin to receive disability payments. This is a personal loan, and you should approach it with caution. This type of loan can be expensive and have a short repayment period. If your disability claim takes longer than you expected, you risk defaulting on the loan. Also, if your disability claim is denied, you're still on the hook for the loan. Before you take a short-term loan for anticipated disability, find out if you are eligible for emergency disability assistance. SSI recipients can get expedited SSI benefits under certain circumstances. To learn more about your options, it's a good idea to get in touch with your unemployment office. Medical loanYou might have seen a brochure for medical loans on the reception desk at your doctor's office or dental clinic. These types of loans are used to finance medical expenses. They often have low interest rates and terms that result in affordable payments. Also, the application process is the same for everyone, regardless of whether you have a disability. The catch is that most medical loans are deferred-interest loans. If you don't pay off the entire loan by the end of the promotional period, you will be charged interest from the start date of the loan, including the portion you have already paid off. If you receive federal disability benefits, you will be eligible for either Medicaid, Medicare, or both. In some states, you can request coverage backdated to three months prior to your application for coverage. These may be better options for you to look into before you apply for a medical loan. Auto loanAn auto loan is a secured loan that uses your car as collateral. If you default, the lender can take away the collateral. You can apply for an auto loan while on disability without jumping through any special hoops. Most car loan lenders have a minimum credit score requirement and simply run a credit check to see if you qualify. Some will also verify your income. Payday loanA payday loan is a short-term, high-interest loan. If possible, it's best to avoid these loans. Most people are unable to repay their payday loan in full by the due date. And when that happens, you'll have to renew the loan and pay more fees. If you can, it's better to find alternatives to payday loans before grabbing what looks like a fast, easy loan. How to get a loan on disabilityHere's how to get a loan on disability:
Like any major financial decision, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of taking out a personal loan, particularly when you're on a fixed income. Your best bet is to take time to understand your options and carefully make a decision that works for you. The Ascent's best personal loansLooking for a personal loan but don’t know where to start? Our favorites offer quick approval and rock-bottom interest rates. Check out our list to find the best loan for you. FAQs
What is a VA guaranteed loan?A VA home loan guaranty means that a purchaser obtains a loan through a private lender, such as a bank, credit union or mortgage company. VA then works with the lender to guarantee the loan. If the home owner defaults on the loan, VA will pay the debt to the lender.
What is the minimum credit score for VA loan?There is no minimum credit score requirement. Instead, VA requires a lender to review the entire loan profile. For more information, see the complete VA credit guidelines at www.benefits.va.gov/warms/pam26_7.asp.
What can you not do with a VA loan?VA loans can't be used to purchase a storefront, office space or any other non-residential properties. Buying unimproved land. Veterans can't use VA loans to purchase bare land or farm ground that does not contain the borrower's primary home. You also can't buy land with the intent of someday putting a house on it.
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