- Personal Loans

Examples of banks and credit unions in Minnesota include:
U.S. Bank
Wells Fargo
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
TCF Bank
- Self-Lender or Credit-Building Loans
A self-loan (or credit builder loan) helps individuals build credit while saving money.
Companies like Self Financial offer credit-builder loans where you make monthly payments into a savings account.
Local credit unions often provide similar products tailored to community needs. - Small Business Loans
If you’re seeking a loan for a small business, programs like those from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) or the SBA (Small Business Administration) may be helpful.
Look into local nonprofit organizations that support entrepreneurs, such as or MEDA. - Student Loans
If you’re a student, Minnesota has state-specific loan programs, such as those offered by Minnesota Office of Higher Education. - Other Resources
Nonprofit Financial Counseling Services:
Organizations like LSS Financial Counseling in Minnesota can help you find and manage loans responsibly.
Would you like more specific recommendations or assistance with a particular type of loan?
How Self-Loans Work
Loan Structure:
You make fixed monthly payments toward the loan.
Credit Building:
Each payment is reported to major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion).
Timely payments build positive credit history.
At the end of the loan term, you get access to the total savings (minus fees or interest).
End Goal:
Build or improve your credit score.
Gain access to your accumulated savings.
Self-Loan Providers in Minnesota
Self Financial (formerly Self Lender):
A nationwide platform offering credit builder loans.
Loan amounts typically range from $520 to $1,800.
Monthly payments are low (starting around $25).
Credit Unions: Many Minnesota-based credit unions offer credit builder loans.
Examples include:
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union:
Offers credit builder loans with low fees.
Wings Financial Credit Union:
Provides options to build credit while saving money.
Banks: Some banks in Minnesota also offer secured loans or credit-building products. Local community banks may have options designed for individuals with limited credit history.
Eligibility Requirements
While requirements vary by provider, typical criteria include:
Residency:
Must be a Minnesota resident.
Age: Must be 18 or older.
Costs Involved
Interest:
Rates vary but are typically between 5%–15% APR.
Fees:
Some providers charge administrative fees (e.g., $9–$15 for Self Financial).
No Upfront Collateral:
You don’t need an initial deposit, as the loan itself is secured by the savings account.
Benefits of a Self-Loan
Credit Score Improvement:
Helps establish a mix of credit types (important for credit scoring).
Savings:
Forces disciplined saving habits, as the monthly payments go toward an account you’ll receive at the end of the term.
Accessibility:
No hard credit check in most cases.
Potential Drawbacks
Costs:

The loan may cost more in fees and interest than the savings account earns.
Commitment:
Missing payments can hurt your credit instead of improving it.
How to Apply for a Self-Loan in Minnesota
Online Application:
Providers like Self Financial allow you to apply directly online.
Minimal requirements make it accessible.
Local Credit Unions:
Visit a nearby credit union and inquire about their credit builder loans.
Some credit unions may require membership.
Bank Options:
Reach out to your local bank to see if they offer secured loans or similar products.
Local Financial Counseling Resources
LSS Financial Counseling:
Offers free or low-cost advice for Minnesotans trying to manage debt or improve credit.
Website:
LSS Financial Counseling
Minnesota Department of Commerce:
Provides resources for financial education and consumer protection.
Website:
Minnesota Commerce Department
Would you like guidance on a specific lender or assistance with applying for a self-loan?
How Does a Self Loan Work?
Loan Creation:
You apply for a small loan, but you don’t get the money immediately.
Monthly Payments:
You make regular monthly payments, which include principal and interest.
Loan Maturity:
Once the loan term ends (typically 6-24 months), you gain access to the full amount you’ve paid, minus any fees or interest.
Credit Building:
Your timely payments improve your credit score, creating a strong payment history—a key factor in credit scoring.
Features of a Self Loan
Loan Amounts:
Typically range from $300 to $1,800, depending on the provider.
Loan Terms:
Vary from 6 to 24 months.
Interest Rates:
Generally range from 5% to 16% APR.
No Hard Credit Check:
Most providers only perform a soft credit inquiry, so applying won’t hurt your credit score.
Secured Savings:
The loan amount is held as collateral in a savings account or CD until you complete the payments.
Where to Get a Self Loan in Minnesota
- Self Financial (Online Option)
Overview: A leading platform for credit-builder loans available nationwide, including Minnesota.
Loan Details:
Amounts: $520 to $1,800.
Monthly payments start as low as $25.
Application is fully online, with no hard credit inquiry.
Website: Self Financial - Credit Unions in Minnesota
Many local credit

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