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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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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 35
    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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      Customer ServiceSales & MarketingMaintenanceStaffLoan ProcessTimeliness

      Reviewed July 8, 2026

      I am still in the process but I had applied with a different company who sent my information to every payday loan institution in America. Within hours all my passwords and information were compromised. I spoke with an employee who called me and almost cussed him out until he said a few key words that I knew he was not a scam. I told him what had happened and he told me exactly what to do. I have spent 3 days trying to fix what one mail flyer did. Thank you Upgrade. I am hopeful to have a long lasting relationship.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffLoan Process

      Reviewed June 27, 2026

      I am a repeat customer of Upgrade, and they continue to impress me. I recently took out a personal loan and was approved quickly. Just a couple of days later, they reached out and offered an opportunity to refinance my auto loan. As a first-timer to auto refinancing, I was a bit unsure of what to expect, but the entire process turned out to be incredibly simple and straightforward. Why They Stand Out:

      Top-Tier Customer Service: Truly the best customer service I have ever worked with.

      Clear Communication: They take the extra time and attention needed to make sure you fully understand what is being asked of you as a customer, and exactly what is needed on their end.

      If you want a seamless financial process backed by a team that actually cares about clear communication, Upgrade is the way to go!

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed June 14, 2026

      I've gotta give it to Upgrade, they have one important tool in their loan approval process that all other banks need to include in their lender process. It's flawless, it's genius and it does give the lender and instant look at you as a potential borrower. Upgrade asks to have access to your bank account, once in your bank account, they can see all your highs (I deposited over $22,000.00 this past month,) and verify any lows it they exist. One last important point, Merrick Bank is a low-end lender for high-risk borrowers, 24-hours before Upgrade approved me, Merrick Bank denied me off a soft pull of credit report.

      So, I instantly sent them a message giving them the one tool they are missing in their loan approval algorithm processes, they need to get access to the borrower bank account. Upgrade approved me within 30-45 seconds after accessing my bank account. So, anyone thinking about getting a loan, keep a clean bank account and maintain positive growths. Give Upgrade a chance and I am sure it will work out for you as it did for myself.

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      MaintenanceLoan Process

      Reviewed Aug. 10, 2026

      Very easy experience. I've used them before for several short term loans to perform home maintenance.

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      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 8, 2026

      Very easy. Very helpful. Came just in time with no issues.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Aug. 8, 2026

      Easy process and super fast. It was a super easy process to apply and get funding.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Aug. 8, 2026

      Fast and convenient. They do exactly what they promise.

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      Customer ServiceStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 8, 2026

      Application process not accommodating to elderly people, lacking instructions and the document upload process is unclear and difficult to complete on a laptop or pc where scanned images cannot be used. Had to use a cell phone to upload some documents. Otherwise, the people were great. They were personable, timely and professional during each stage. Had a few technical difficulties but I’d recommend Upgrade.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 7, 2026

      I was approved by Upgrade quickly. The representative I talked to was very pleasant, helpful and professional.

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      Punctuality & SpeedBilling

      Reviewed Aug. 4, 2026

      Ease of application. Fast funding!! This was the fastest I have had my bills paid and mine deposited.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed July 29, 2026

      I had a great experience with this UPGRADE. The application process was quick and easy, everything was explained clearly, and I received my loan faster than expected. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for reliable financial assistance.

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      Reviewed July 28, 2026

      I have really received a awesome financial experience with Upgrade from travel to medical. Thanks, Upgrade for being there when I really needed you. I will never let you down. ❤️🙏🏾

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & Speed

      Reviewed July 27, 2026

      Very easy and seamless process. Great customer service and fast turnaround time would definitely recommend.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed July 27, 2026

      Upgrade is one of my emergency cards, I count on them when things get crazy, so I wanted a loan. There was no problem getting a loan from upgrade, fast, efficient and reasonable, thank you Upgrade for always having my back. Don. B.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed July 27, 2026

      I have been working hard to better my credit, along the way I found Upgrade. They have been exceptional for my personal loan needs and met my expectations. I am super happy with them and my experience with them.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed July 24, 2026

      I needed to purchase something I dearly wanted but did not have the resources. Upgrade gave me a loan and got it to me fast. Thanks, Upgrade. Highly recommended.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed July 23, 2026

      From start to finish everything was very easy and as long as you submit everything needed when requested you can have your loan in your bank account within 24 hours. I know I did.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed July 21, 2026

      This was the fastest loan process that I have been involved in. From application to funds in my account was 3 working days.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan ProcessRates

      Reviewed July 21, 2026

      Super fast processing, less than one day, lowest rate of all possible loans available.

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      Customer ServiceStaffBillingLoan Process

      Reviewed July 16, 2026

      Have newly been picked up by Upgrade. Messed up something where I got 2 loans instead of one. It was called a consolidation loan and was applied to two of my credit cards. Upgrade was helpful in telling me how to get it returned by those cards. One card would not do it and kept it as a payment. The other is processing it now. But Upgrade does not take credit card payment or it would have let me pay it back from those cards. That bothered me a lot. Otherwise, I have no issue with Uprade or their service.

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      StaffRates

      Reviewed July 14, 2026

      Outstanding Service & Rates. I thought it was an easy process. Great work. Really appreciate. Upgrade. Thanks.

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      Punctuality & SpeedOnline & AppEase of Use

      Reviewed July 13, 2026

      I am so glad I found out about Upgrade! I needed airline tickets in a pinch. I was able to get them using their website with very little trouble. The website is easy to navigate, the application process is effortless with quick approval. Upgrade really comes through when you need it.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed July 13, 2026

      It’s super easy and fast. This is my second time using upgrade! I’ve never had any issues and I would recommend to anyone that is looking around at different places.

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed July 13, 2026

      The process was beyond simple and deposited quickly. I used twice already and was extremely pleased. One time for a cruise and the other to get out of debt and purchase airline tickets.

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      Reviewed July 12, 2026

      Great experience with Upgrade. I am a repeat customer and refer them to anyone seeking financial services.

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      StaffBilling

      Reviewed July 12, 2026

      Am a repeat customer of Upgrade, and they continue to impress me. Just make your payments on time and be responsible, and they will take care of you.

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      Rates

      Reviewed July 11, 2026

      The application process was straightforward, and the competitive rates were impressive. The seamless application and funding process were particularly noteworthy. I have tried other lenders to compare customer experiences, and Upgrade stands out as the best. I wholeheartedly recommend Upgrade

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      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed July 11, 2026

      The process was seamless, approved in no time and awaited funds were deposited quickly. APR can be a little high, but all in all, I have had no problems and I'm always satisfied.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed July 10, 2026

      It was easy and quick. When I speak to someone they are very professional and friendly.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan Process

      Reviewed July 7, 2026

      The loan process was easy and fast. The funds were available in my account in two days. This was a stress-free process. I highly recommend going to Upgrade first for all your loan needs.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedBilling

      Reviewed July 7, 2026

      Upgrade fast response made it easy to consolidate my credit card debt into one payment. I like the convenience of applying online, and having all documents available online as well. I would recommend them to anyone looking to consolidate and streamline multiple debts.

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      Loan ProcessTimeliness

      Reviewed July 6, 2026

      We've used Upgrade twice so far for home improvement loans. It couldn't be faster or simpler. The money was in our account the next day.

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      Punctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed July 5, 2026

      Quick and responsive in a time of need. Much appreciate the experience and professionalism.

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      Reviewed June 29, 2026

      They are easy to work with and very customer-oriented.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed June 27, 2026

      Best company ever, fast approval, deposit and excellent customer service.

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      Punctuality & SpeedLoan ProcessRates

      Reviewed June 24, 2026

      This was a quick, efficient way to get a loan. I was pleased with the service and rates.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed June 22, 2026

      I was happy to be receiving a $10,000 loan but what I wasn’t happy about was not seeing the full amount in my checking account. That’s my fault not theirs, but that high fee will definitely encourage me not to come back.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed June 22, 2026

      Very quick on responses and approval. 2 days I was taken care of. Thanks.

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      Upgrade Company Information

      Company Name:
      Upgrade
      Website:
      www.upgrade.com