📊 LightStream at a Glance
6.49%
Starting APR
$5K-$100K
Loan Amount
660+
Min Credit
$0
Fees
What is LightStream?
LightStream is the online lending division of Truist Bank (formerly SunTrust Bank), one of the top 10 largest banks in the US. They've been offering personal loans since 2013 and are known for having the lowest rates in the industry.
Key differentiator: LightStream's Rate Beat Program guarantees they'll beat any qualifying rate from a competitor by 0.10%. This makes them an excellent choice for rate shoppers.
Pros and Cons
✓ Pros
- Lowest starting APR (6.49%)
- Rate Beat Program
- Zero fees (no origination, late, or prepayment)
- Same-day funding available
- Up to 20-year terms for home improvement
- Loans up to $100,000
- Backed by major US bank
✗ Cons
- No pre-qualification (hard credit pull)
- Requires good credit (660+)
- No co-borrower option
- No unemployment protection
- $5,000 minimum loan
Who Should Apply?
Ideal for:
- Borrowers with excellent credit (720+) seeking the lowest rate
- Large loan needs ($25,000+)
- Home improvement projects (up to 20-year terms)
- Those who don't need pre-qualification
- Borrowers with stable employment
Not ideal for:
- Those who want to check rates without a hard pull
- Credit scores below 660
- Borrowers who need a co-signer
- Small loans under $5,000
Our Verdict
LightStream offers the best rates in the market, period. If you have excellent credit and want to minimize interest costs, LightStream should be your top choice. The only catch: you can't check your rate without a hard pull.
Apply to LightStream →