Thursday, January 8, 2009

Online Loans Can Be Risky Business

By Trinity Tomlinson

If you could use some funds quickly, you're not alone. Thousands of people every week apply for online loans. They can be hassle-free, or they can be the biggest hassle you've ever faced. Make sure you know what you're getting yourself into.

Online loans, true to their name, are loans that you apply for and receive online. You simply provide some basic personal information to the lending institution online and your application is complete. If you are at least 18 years old and a citizen of the United States, you are eligible to apply.

You will basically fill out an application online, and will then wait for a few hours while the bank or lender determines your eligibility. Once they give you the thumbs up, they will notify you by email. If approved, you will receive your funds by direct deposit or bank wire within about one day.

Before you fill out an application online, make sure that your lender is legit. If a lender is asking you irregular questions, they are probably trying to do something shady. We'll give you in the next few paragraphs what each lender should be asking you for.

For almost any online loan, you will have to provide your social security number, or at least your driver's license number. This is normal and isn't any kind of red flag. This is sensitive information but the lender will need it to run your credit and verify your identity.

Since your personal information will be sent online, you will want to make sure that your lender is running a secure site. They should have security certificates that show that the site runs on a secure server and uses ample encryption.

As long as your lender has set up the proper security and is running a reputable shop, you don't have anything to worry about. Go ahead and proceed and get the funds you need.

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment