How to Get an $800 Loan: Options, Requirements, and Costs

You may be able to get an $800 loan through an online lender, credit union, personal loan, or other small-dollar borrowing option. Approval depends on factors such as your income, credit history, and ability to repay. If you need $800 quickly or have bad credit, compare the APR, fees, repayment term, and funding time before applying. 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. Repayment terms vary by lender and loan product, so check the payment schedule before accepting an offer.

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.

Can I Get an $800 Loan With Bad Credit?

In some cases, you might be able to borrow $800 even without an amazing credit score. That’s because credit score requirements vary by lender, and some lenders look at income and your ability to repay a loan in addition to your credit history.

Your credit score will still factor into the decision. Some lenders run a soft inquiry for prequalification, while others run a hard inquiry.

If you are able to find a loan, please be aware that bad credit can mean higher APRs or fees.

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

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. 

Do You Need a Job to Get an $800 Loan?

Not necessarily. Most lenders require some form of income, but it does not always have to come from a job. When they qualify you for a loan, they try to determine how likely you are to repay it. If you cannot show proof of income, then most financial institutions will consider you a greater risk for default and may not approve you for the loan.

How Can I Get $800 Today?

When working with an online lender, you may have to wait one or more business days for the loan funds to make it to your bank account. Timing depends on both the lender and your bank, although same-day funding may be available in some cases. Some storefront options may be able to provide cash the same day.

How Can I Get $800 Fast?

You can start the process of requesting $800 right here at BuddyLoans. We can try to connect you to a lender or lending partner. If you are eventually approved for a loan and accept the terms, you may receive the money in as little as one business day, depending on the lender and your bank.

Can I Get an $800 Loan With No Credit Check?

Most personal loan lenders use a credit check as part of the loan qualification process. It’s not just to determine your creditworthiness. A credit check may also help verify your identity. Some lenders offer loans without a traditional credit check, but we recommend being cautious, as those loans can carry high rates or fees.

Where Can I Borrow $800?

Financial institutions come in many shapes and sizes. Online lenders, like those in BuddyLoans’ network, are among them. Then, there are also banks, credit unions, storefront lenders, and other options. With a smaller loan like one for $800, your options may be more limited, as larger financial institutions may be less likely to lend smaller amounts. However, if you already have an account with a bank or credit union, those can be a good place to start, as they may be able to work with you if you are already a customer or member.

Can I Get an $800 Personal Loan?

Personal loan amounts vary by lender. Some financial institutions offer smaller loans, which may include an $800 option. Others offer larger products that may start at $1,000 or more. Because minimum loan amounts vary, you should check and see if an individual loan company offers an $800 personal loan.

Can I Get an $800 Loan for 12 Months?

You may be able to get an $800 installment loan with a 12-month repayment term. However, terms are set by lenders, so you should check with a specific lender to see what loan terms they offer.

How Much Does an $800 Loan Cost?

There is not a simple answer to this question. Different lenders set different rates and fees, and the total cost can change based on how long you take to pay back the loan. That’s why we recommend reading your loan offer carefully to understand how much the loan costs.

What Credit Score Do I Need for an $800 Loan?

No minimum credit score is required to request an $800 loan through BuddyLoans. However, some lenders or lending partners may only work with applicants with good credit or better. We recommend starting here to see whether we can connect you with a lender.

Is an $800 Payday Loan Worth Considering?

Payday loan laws differ by state, and an $800 payday loan may not be available where you live. High fees and short repayment periods can make these loans difficult to repay. An installment loan with a longer repayment term may be another option, but you should still check its rates and fees.

Is It Safe to Get an $800 Loan Online?

If you use a reputable lender, then borrowing online can be safe. However, no transaction is 100% safe. You should always be careful with your personal information and follow the best practices for borrowing online.

Sources

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