You CAN Get a Loan — Even With This Credit Crunch

Many people are finding out that getting a loan just isn’t as easy as it used to be. And, to a certain extent, this is true. Those with questionable credit, high debt to income ratios and a large amounts of preexisting debt just aren’t going to be able to borrow with the ease they could have three years ago. But you can still get a loan. Here are some tips for getting a loan during the credit crunch:

1. Go local for your loans: Many of the big banks just aren’t lending, despite bailout funds aimed at loosening the credit market. Instead of looking to the “elite” national banks, look at your local banks and credit unions. Many local institutions never got into the sorts of things that are wreaking havoc with balance sheets right now.

2. Make sure your credit is in order: You will need to make sure your credit score is in relatively good shape. Check your credit report (with the help of annualcreditreport.com), and fix any errors that might be weighing on your score.

3. Pay down some of your debt: You can become more attractive by paying down some of your debt. You want to keep your debt-to-income ration, including your new loan to around 36% or less. Less, of course, is better. It is also best to keep your credit card balances to 50% of what you have available.

4. Be prepared to document your income: You will have to provide ample proof of income and other information. Lenders want to be able to fully document that you will be able — and likely — to pay back your obligation.

You can still get a loan. For those who are in a fairly good financial place, it is possible to find a lending institution willing to allow you to borrow. But it may take a little more work than in the past.