How to Get 800 Dollar Loans: Options, Requirements, and Tips

When something unexpected hits your budget, an $800 loan might help you bridge your financial gap. However, that can be tough to get if your credit isn’t in great shape. Tough, not impossible — less-than-perfect credit doesn’t automatically shut you out. There are still ways to obtain an $800 loan without falling into a cycle of debt. Here’s what to keep in mind as you look for an $800 loan option that works for you.

Key Takeaways

• You may be able to borrow $800 through personal loans, PALs, or a cash advance.
• Lenders typically require proof of income, a checking account, and a valid ID.
• You should consider exploring lower-cost alternatives first to avoid high-interest borrowing.

How to Get an $800 Loan

While traditional banks don’t usually lend out amounts this small, there are plenty of alternative options for an $800 loan. Let’s review each option, considering its advantages and disadvantages.

Installment Loan

An $800 loan lets you borrow money now and repay it over time in fixed monthly installments, rather than all at once. Some lenders may consider applicants with poor credit, though approval is not guaranteed. 

If approved for an $800 installment loan, funding could occur in one to two business days. The repayment period usually ranges from three to 12 months, but terms are dependent on your specific lender’s policies.

Keep in mind that borrowers with lower credit scores may receive higher-than-average interest rates, sometimes exceeding 30% APR. Again, this is dependent on your specific lender’s policies.

Credit Union PALs (Payday Alternative Loans)

Payday Alternative Loans (PALs) are small-dollar installment loans offered by federal credit unions. These loans are capped at 28% APR plus a one-time $20 application fee.

PAL I loans allow borrowers to borrow up to $1,000, provided they have been a credit union member for at least one month. PAL II loans are available for new members and can be up to $2,000. 

This type of $800 loan is manually underwritten, so factors beyond credit score may be taken into consideration. Borrowers must apply directly through a participating federal credit union. Approval is not guaranteed. 

Credit Card Cash Advance

If you have an available credit limit on a card, you may be able to withdraw $800 as a cash advance. This option can be fast, but it’s one of the more expensive ways to borrow.

Cash advances often come with a 3% to 5% fee and start accruing interest immediately, with APRs typically ranging from 20% to 30%. There’s also no grace period, so the cost adds up from day one.

Secured Loan

A secured loan uses an asset, such as a car, savings account, or certificate of deposit, as collateral. Because this funding is backed by an asset as collateral, these loans are sometimes easier to obtain, especially for those with lower credit scores.

Due to the reduced risk to lenders, interest rates on secured loans can be lower than those on unsecured loans. However, failure to repay may result in the repossession of the asset used as collateral.

Co-Signed Personal Loan

If you have a friend or family member with stronger credit, you may qualify for an $800 loan with a lower APR and better terms by having them co-sign on the loan. Not all loans provide a co-signer option, but when they do, the co-signer’s credit and income can help strengthen your application. 

The time it takes to fund the loan is similar to that of other personal loans, and repayment happens in fixed monthly payments.

Short-Term Loans

A short-term loan is not a specific loan product. Instead, it refers to any type of installment loan with a shorter repayment period, typically ranging from 30 days to one year. Availability, limits, and pricing vary by institution, but you’ll normally see higher interest rates. 

How Can You Qualify for an $800 Loan?

Qualifying for any loan type usually means showing that you can comfortably repay it. To that end, expect lenders to require you to meet standard repayment terms.

• Show that you are at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Have a verifiable income with consistent recent deposits
• Maintain an active checking account in good standing, ideally with direct deposit
• Ability to have your identity and contact information verified with a government-issued ID, a working phone number, and a valid email address
• Have room in your budget for the payment; some lenders review your debt-to-income ratio or recent bank activity to confirm this 

Of course, approval is never guaranteed. Meeting the requirements above does not mean you will receive a loan. 

What to Watch Out for When Borrowing $800

Even though $800 might not seem like a huge loan, the way you borrow it can have a real impact on your finances. It’s easy to overlook the risks, but the wrong loan — with high fees, sky-high interest, or confusing terms — can snowball into something much bigger than you expected.

Before you borrow, take a step back and make sure you understand exactly what you’re getting into. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• High Interest Rates: Some lenders charge interest rates exceeding 30%, especially if your credit score is low. This interest can add up fast and make it harder to pay off.
• Extra Fees: Be sure to check for origination fees, late payment charges, or even prepayment penalties. These extra costs can make the loan more expensive than expected.
• Borrowing More than Needed: It might feel easier to round up and borrow more than you need, but overborrowing can lead to unnecessary interest and stress. Stick to the amount you need.

Always read a loan agreement carefully to make sure it fits within your budget before accepting. Beyond the monthly payment, check the total amount you’ll repay, so you’re aware of what your $800 loan will cost you in total.

Alternatives to $800 Loans 

Prefer not to take on debt? Here are a few alternatives that may help you obtain the $800 you need without interest.

• Use Your Emergency Fund: If you’ve set aside money for unexpected expenses, this could be the time to use it. Make sure you leave yourself enough of a cushion for other needs and aim to rebuild it as soon as possible.
• Ask Family and Friends: Borrowing money from family and friends can be one of the fastest ways to get the help you need. Be upfront about your situation and discuss a plan to repay them.
• Sell Items You Don’t Use: Look around your home for things you no longer need, like electronics, tools, furniture, or collectibles. Listing them on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay could help you raise the $800 you need.
• Ask Your Employer for a Paycheck Advance: Your workplace may offer a paycheck advance that allows you to access part of your income early. Even if it’s not an official policy, it’s worth asking your HR or your manager if a one-time advance is possible.
• Look into Community Assistance: If the reason you need $800 is to cover rent, utilities, or medical expenses, try calling 211 for referrals or check with local nonprofit organizations, such as the Salvation Army or Catholic Charities. Some hospitals and utility companies also offer hardship programs or short-term assistance.

Facing an unexpected $800 expense can be overwhelming, especially if your credit isn’t in great shape. Still, there are a few ways to get help. You might consider a small personal loan, a credit union’s Payday Alternative Loan (PAL), or even ask a trusted friend or family member. If you do opt for the loan route, take the time to understand the total cost, compare your options, and read the terms closely before signing anything.

FAQ about $800 Loans

Can I Get a $800 Loan with Bad Credit? 

It’s sometimes possible. Some online lenders may focus more on your income rather than your credit score. However, approval is not guaranteed. Also, keep in mind that you might pay more in interest.

Is It Safe to Apply for an $800 Loan Online?

To ensure that the online loan application process is as safe as possible, check that the website has SSL encryption (the site starts with “https://”), clearly stated terms, and a well-defined privacy policy. Avoid lenders that promise “guaranteed approval” or request money before disbursing your loan. 

Sources

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “What is a payday loan?” CFPB Ask CFPB. Accessed October 1, 2025.