Process & terms

What fees come with a personal loan?

Short answer

Origination fee (1-8% of loan, deducted from disbursement), late payment fee ($15-40 per missed payment), NSF/returned-payment fee ($15-30), and sometimes a wire/express funding fee ($15-50). Most reputable U.S. lenders don't charge prepayment penalties or monthly maintenance fees.

Context

The origination fee is the biggest cost variable. It's rolled into the disclosed APR under the Truth in Lending Act, so comparing effective APRs (not stated rates) gives an apples-to-apples cost comparison.

Avoid lenders charging: monthly maintenance fees, account servicing fees, mandatory credit-insurance bundles, or prepayment penalties. These exist on subprime products and significantly increase real cost. Reputable mainstream lenders charge only the origination, late, and NSF fees listed above.

Editorial

Reviewed by: Compliance Review
Last reviewed: May 22, 2026

Hidden fees in personal loans (guide)

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