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Upgrade Reviews

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About Upgrade

Upgrade is an online and mobile banking solution that offers personal loans, credit cards and deposit accounts. With Upgrade, customers can combine online and mobile banking with affordable loans and cards, high-yield savings accounts and rewards checking accounts. Customers also benefit from free credit monitoring, alerts and credit education tools. Upgrade’s fully online service offers fast transactions, a simple approval process and easy banking.

Visit www.upgrade.com/personal-loans
Pros
  • Fast approvals
  • Loans up to $50,000
  • 4.02% APY on savings accounts
  • Same-day transfers up to $100,000
Cons
  • $10 late fee on loans
  • High origination fee

Helpful Reviews

Oklahoma City, OK
Verified purchase
Getting a loan to pay off my credit card debt turned out to be one of the easiest financial decisions I’ve ever made. The entire process was simple and straightforward from start ...

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Indianapolis, IN
Verified purchase
I now currently have two separate loans through Upgrade. Their process is easy to navigate through. They were able to match the total payment amounts from multiple credit cards. B...

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How does Upgrade work?

Upgrade caters to customers who need support with building credit and offers different options for personal loans. Its loans can be used for purposes such as home improvement, major purchases and debt consolidation.

You can apply online, choose your loan type and amount (up to $50,000) and receive funds within days of being approved. There are no prepayment penalties, and low rates are available for qualifying customers.

The company also recently added checking and savings accounts to its line of products. You can open both accounts online, and your money is FDIC-insured through Cross River Bank.

Upgrade products

Upgrade offers a variety of financial products to customers:

Personal loans: Upgrade’s loans come with fixed rates and monthly payments. Loans are available from $1,000 to $50,000. You can check your rate on its website for free and without affecting your credit score.

Premier Savings: The company’s Premier Savings account is designed to help you reach your financial goals faster. It features an annual percentage yield (APY) of 4.02%, which is quite a bit higher than what you’ll see at most brick-and-mortar banks — and even many online-only banks.

Rewards Checking: Using your debit card for purchases earns unlimited 1% to 2% cash back. You’ll get 2% back at places and on purchases like:

  • Gas stations
  • Restaurants
  • Monthly subscriptions
  • Utility and cell phone bills
  • Convenience stores

Everything else nets you 1%. You also get a 10% to 20% lower interest rate if you apply for an Upgrade loan or card.

Upgrade interest rates and fees

Upgrade’s personal loans typically have annual percentage rates (APRs) between 7.74% and 35.99%. The lowest rates require autopay. Rates vary based on your credit score, your credit usage history, the loan term and other factors.

Upgrade provides the following example: a $10,000 loan with a 36-month term and a 17.98% APR (14.32% yearly interest rate plus a 5% origination fee) gives you $9,500 after fees and requires a monthly payment of $343.33. Origination fees at Upgrade range from 1.85% to 9.99% at the time of publishing. Late fees start at $10.

Upgrade’s checking account has no ATM or account fees.

Keeping money in your savings account earns you 4.02% APY on balances of at least $1,000. There aren’t any monthly fees to worry about.

Upgrade FAQ

How long does it take for Upgrade to approve a loan?

It usually takes from two to five business days for Upgrade to approve and fund a loan. After approval and verification, the lender sends funds within one business day.

Does Upgrade do a hard credit pull?

Yes, if you decide to move forward with a loan, Upgrade does a hard credit check. However, you can check your rates through Upgrade without a hard credit pull.

What credit bureau does Upgrade use?

Upgrade says that if you apply for a loan, you’ll only see a hard inquiry on your TransUnion report.

Where can I use Upgrade’s card?

You can use the Upgrade card everywhere that Visa credit cards are accepted, except ATMs.

Does Upgrade have monthly account fees?

Upgrade’s checking and savings accounts do not have any monthly account fees. In addition, its checking account has no ATM fees.

Still have questions?

Is Upgrade legit?

Upgrade is a good loan company for those who prefer simplicity and flexibility. Upgrade offers loans of up to $50,000, which is more than some of its competitors. The company has APRs starting at 7.74% at the time of publishing. While origination fees are somewhat high, costs may balance out for some customers due to the lack of prepayment penalties and lower rates. Those looking for high-yield deposit accounts will find Upgrade’s percentages to be greater than most of the competition.

Upgrade Reviews

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    How do I know I can trust these reviews about Upgrade?
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    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 35
    Profile pic of the author.
    Customer ServiceContract & TermsStaffTransparencyFollow-Through

    Reviewed Oct. 4, 2026

    I had a great experience working with Upgrade. From start to finish, the entire process was seamless, and the company did everything they said they would do and more. The communication was clear, the terms were exactly as promised, and I felt supported throughout the entire transaction. It is rare to find a company that actually exceeds expectations, but Upgrade managed to do just that. I would highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a reliable and professional experience.

    Key Highlights of the Experience:
    Transparency: All terms and conditions were clearly explained upfront with no hidden surprises.
    Reliability: The company followed through on every commitment made during the initial agreement.
    Efficiency: The process was streamlined and moved much faster than I anticipated.

    Professionalism: The staff was knowledgeable, responsive, and handled my inquiries with great care.

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      Sales & MarketingPunctuality & SpeedOnline & AppStaffBillingLoan ProcessRatesTimeliness

      Reviewed Sept. 29, 2026

      I'm speechless. The flawless workflow on their website made me feel confident in what I doing. Information was readily available for question I had and probably the most amazing part of the experience was it only taking 18hrs from the time I applied until the funds hit my banking institution. ABSOLUTELY BRAVO. 👏 Interest was a little higher than I expected but they did offer a reduced rate if I had them pay a certain percentage directly to my debtors themselves but I was at work and didnt have the ability to aquire all my account numbers, etc. So, I just applied as it was. I needed the funding fast as I had arranged a reduced balance with all my creditors pending payment within days at that time. Maybe they will refinance the loan or offer a promotion her in the near future but I am still a satisfied customer and soon to be a lifelong member.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffBilling

      Reviewed Sept. 22, 2026

      I had an amazing experience with Upgrade. Their customer service team was professional, helpful, and easy to work with throughout the process. My payment posted quickly, which gave me peace of mind and made managing my account much simpler. One feature I especially appreciated was the option to pay off credit cards directly through Upgrade. The process was quick, straightforward, and convenient. It made consolidating and paying down my debt feel much more manageable. My only suggestion would be to add more credit card companies to the direct-pay list, since that would make an already great service even more useful. Overall, I am very pleased with Upgrade and would recommend them to anyone looking for a smooth, efficient lending and debt-payoff experience.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffLoan ProcessTransparency

      Reviewed July 28, 2026

      I was just approved for my second loan with Upgrade where I have experienced quick approvals; however, I want to highlight a couple situations in their approval policy that has left me baffled. The first loan I applied for was under $2K which was paid off pretty quickly, but before paying it off, I needed a larger loan to complete a landscape project. During this time, I received a "pre-approval for $45" from Upgrade but was denied because I had not paid off my first loan. When I asked why send me a pre-approval and deny me credit, Upgrade cited that I could not have two existing loans with them. I was able to get the loan I needed through American Express, problem solved.

      I paid off the first Upgrade loan early as I had intended. So last week I applied for a smaller loan with Upgraded and this time, I received a phone call from a representative to confirm if I was recently approved from a new loan from American Express, to which I stated yes. She then stated that Upgrade could not approve me for the loan because the new loan account was not yet reflected on my credit report and was unable to provide any additional explanation as to why.

      My initial thought was, if you are able to see the new account, why the need to call and ask. I asked to escalate the call to a supervisor, who was very polite and confirmed that the new account was in fact reflecting on my credit report and quickly recommended my approval. I received a deposit within 3 days. The brevity of review is very light, considering the positive outcome. I would recommend Upgrade to discover a strategy to be more transparent in their approval criteria as it relates to my experiences. The outcome could have been better.

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      Punctuality & SpeedRefunds & PayoutsBillingRates

      Reviewed July 28, 2026

      I recently used Upgrade to consolidate my credit card debt, and the whole process was incredibly easy. From applying to getting funded, everything was quick and straightforward. Their rates were competitive compared to other debt consolidation lenders and definitely better than the interest rates on my credit cards. One thing I really liked was that they paid off my credit cards electronically instead of mailing paper checks like many traditional lenders. That made the process much faster and more convenient. Overall, I had a great experience with Upgrade. I would definitely use them again in the future and would recommend them to anyone looking to consolidate their debt.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Loan ProcessRates

      Reviewed Oct. 6, 2026

      The process is easy. I was OK with the high interest. But over $2000 in loan fees PLUS over $7000 in interest? I WAS NOT HAPPY WITH HOW POORLY THE LOAN FEES WERE COMMUNICATED. I feel ripped off.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed Oct. 4, 2026

      Borrowed 4000. Received 1853.60. I was supposed to have rest go to another loan but has been over a week. Still not showing.

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      PriceLoan Process

      Reviewed Oct. 4, 2026

      Upgrade charges a one-time origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99% of the loan amount, which is automatically deducted from your loan proceeds before the funds are sent to you. Borrowed 13.000. Upgrade took $771.00. Sent $12,229. Upgrade paid themselves $771.00 of your money for processing the loan. That seems excessive and sharkish. Read everything, you can the real documents are not formatted to download and are not readable. If you use this service go with very small loans. $5,000 or less.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaffBillingLoan Process

      Reviewed Oct. 4, 2026

      I have always had a great experience with Upgrade. I have 2 of their credit cards and an installment loan. I have been a customer for over 6 years. I am a return customer for installment loans for home remodeling and help with paying off other bills. The loan process is always quick and goes through smoothly. I recommend them. R

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      Punctuality & SpeedOnline & AppBillingEase of Use

      Reviewed Oct. 3, 2026

      Everything about this process was quick and smooth. The funds were distributed in less than two business days and I was able to lower my monthly payments on my debts immediately. The website is very easy to navigate as well. So far I'm very happy with my experience.

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      Billing

      Reviewed Oct. 2, 2026

      When needed Upgrade really came through on hard and difficult times especially with easy payment plan. Definitely I do recommend

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      Customer ServiceStaffBillingLoan Process

      Reviewed Oct. 2, 2026

      I've been approved for a loan through Upgrade more than once. It was very much appreciated. I was able to have my payments automatically drafted from my account without me worrying. The terms were reasonable and the customer service have been helpful more than once. I would highly recommend Upgrade to anyone.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed Sept. 29, 2026

      It was a very fast and easy process with very professional people behind it. I highly recommend it.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed Sept. 28, 2026

      Process was quick and easy. They were professional.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Profile pic of the author.
      Punctuality & SpeedStaffBillingLoan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 28, 2026

      I got a small loan just to help me with some payments and put them into one smaller payment from what I was paying. It was so fast and easy I couldn’t believe it. I definitely will use them in the future.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Customer ServicePunctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Sept. 28, 2026

      This process was fast and easy. Good communication and follow-up at each step of the way.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Loan ProcessTimeliness

      Reviewed Sept. 24, 2026

      Getting a loan to pay 💰 for my cruise vacation allowed me to seal a terrific offer right away. Origination fee was the downside but the funds are available the very next day.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Punctuality & SpeedStaffLoan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 22, 2026

      Excellent time in terms of processing your loan, simple and fast result, whether you are approved or not. Money transfer to your bank is fast.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 22, 2026

      The loan process was easy, and I was able to get my finances under control in 24 hours.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 22, 2026

      The whole process was extremely fast. I highly recommend Upgrade to anyone looking for a CC/loan. I have many banks I deal with but this was by far the easiest.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Loan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 20, 2026

      Getting A consolidation loan was so easy and seamless through Upgrade!! Thank you!!!

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Customer ServicePunctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Sept. 20, 2026

      Very easy to apply and quick reply. Service was great and timely

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      Customer Service

      Reviewed Sept. 19, 2026

      I received an offer, responded, and funds were deposited in 2 days. I plan to always use Upgrade for my business financial needs.

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      BillingLoan ProcessTimeliness

      Reviewed Sept. 14, 2026

      This is my third no hassle or additional paperwork needed loan which I received next day. Easy payment plan and process. I recommend Upgrade any day.

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      StaffLoan ProcessTimeliness

      Reviewed Sept. 13, 2026

      Everyone I’ve spoken with at Upgrade has been has been kind and helpful. I loan application was submitted and approved on the same day. The money was in my checking account the next day! I would absolutely recommend them to friends and family.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      PricePunctuality & SpeedRates

      Reviewed Sept. 12, 2026

      I love how fast and quick you get approved and fast you get funds without the hassle. The only thing I don’t like is the high interest rates and charges.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 7, 2026

      I've used Upgrade twice so far and it's been a simple process, quick and very convenient. Your money is conveniently deposited right into your checking within just a few short days, all without leaving your home. I highly recommend Upgrade if you need a loan, very quick and easy to work with.

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      Transparency

      Reviewed Sept. 6, 2026

      So far my experience with Upgrade has been very positive 👍. Will update in 12 months.

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      Reviewed Sept. 6, 2026

      I really was in need. Everyone was telling me no and not because of bad credit but because of no credit history and I was losing hope. Upgrade approved me in 3 days and blessed me with the money I needed. I will forever be thankful. They made it easy and simple process.

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      Timeliness

      Reviewed Sept. 1, 2026

      I loved how smooth everything went. Once I got my approval the money was in the bank the next day. I didn't even have to speak to anyone, it was seamless and it worked out with no hiccups. I would definitely used them again in my time of need.

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      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      First I would like to say “thank you“ so very much! I appreciate you in helping me, and I love Upgrade,

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Punctuality & SpeedStaffLoan Process

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      Very helpful and polite staff, quick loan approvals. I've had three loans with Upgrade.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 30, 2026

      The process was easy and very fast. The money was in my accounts within 24 hours, thank you for all your help.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Punctuality & SpeedStaffLoan Process

      Reviewed Aug. 29, 2026

      What a surprisingly easy and professional company to do business with! I would highly recommend this company to anyone who needs a fast and painless loan!

      Owen

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaffRates

      Reviewed Aug. 29, 2026

      My experience with Upgrade was excellent! I received a quick approval with a decent interest rate, and the funds were transferred within a couple of business days. If you’re planning on doing some debt consolidation I highly recommend them! Thank you Upgrade!

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      StaffLoan Process

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      Such an easy process. No stress involved and the company is very helpful with any questions. Will recommend to anyone looking for a loan with very fair payback options.

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      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      The process was smooth and seamless. I love borrowing from them.

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      Profile pic of the author.
      Punctuality & SpeedRates

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      We have used Upgrade under its former iterations. It has always been easy to enroll and get really good deals in terms of interest rates. The reason I don't give it a 5 Star is because I think our previous record and credit rating should have enabled us to get an even better rate. Due to my dissapointment I might go a different route if I again have the need to borrow quickly.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      The only thing was the high fee...Everything else was easy and fast.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      Everything was simple and fast. Got the money in one business day.

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      Upgrade Company Information

      Company Name:
      Upgrade
      Website:
      www.upgrade.com