What credit score do I need for a $1,000 personal loan?

$1,000 is at the small end of the personal-loan market. Many borrowers at this size would be better served by credit-union PALs (which top out at $2,000), small-dollar credit-builder loans from Self or Kikoff, or a secured credit card if the goal is also to build credit.

When $1,000 is the right amount: short-term emergency need (car repair, medical copay), where the loan will be paid off in 6-12 months. Loan-payment math: $1,000 at 28% APR over 12 months is about $97/month, manageable but expensive interest at $164 total.