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How to Borrow Money With Bad Credit

September 2nd, 2026 [Updated September 3rd, 2026]
Quan Vu

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Quan Vu

How to Borrow Money With Bad Credit

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NEED MONEY BEFORE PAYDAY? GET UP TO $250

You can still borrow money with bad credit in Canada. Your options may be more limited. You may also pay a higher interest rate.

Some lenders consider your income and existing debts in addition to your credit score. If you only need a small amount for a short-term expense, a cash advance may also be an option.

KOHO Cash Advance

KOHO Cover is not a traditional payday loan. It is a cash advance designed for Canadians who need a smaller amount of money to cover short term expenses.

With KOHO Cash Adavnce, you can:

  • Get up to $250 as an instant cash advance (amount depends on eligibility)

  • Pay no interest on the advance

  • Avoid a credit check

  • Repay automatically once you add money or get paid

You subscribe to the Cover bundle for a low monthly fee, and in return you get the advance feature plus extras like a credit report, financial coaching, and priority support.

Can You Get a Loan With Bad Credit?

Yes.

Having bad credit does not automatically prevent you from getting a loan.

Most personal lenders will check your credit when you apply. Your credit history can affect the type of loan you qualify for. It can also affect the interest rate you receive.

A lender may also consider:

  • Your income

  • Your current debt

  • Your employment

  • Your ability to make the payments

  • Your recent credit applications

What Are Your Options With Bad Credit?

Your options depend on how much you need and why you need it.

Secured Loan

A secured loan requires an asset as collateral.

Providing collateral can reduce the lender's risk. This may make it easier to qualify with weaker credit.

The downside is important. You could lose the asset if you cannot repay the loan.

Personal Loan

You may still qualify for a personal loan with bad credit.

Expect the lender to review your credit and financial situation. A weaker credit profile can result in a higher interest rate.

Always compare the total repayment cost before accepting a loan.

Cash Advance

A cash advance can make sense when you only need a smaller amount for a short-term expense.

Can You Borrow Money With Bad Credit and No Credit Check?

Some products do not require a traditional credit check.

That does not mean everyone is automatically eligible. The provider may use other information to determine how much you can access.

How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved?

Start by applying only for products that fit your financial situation.

You can also:

  • Make sure you have proof of regular income

  • Reduce outstanding debt where possible

  • Check your credit report for errors

  • Avoid applying for several loans at once

  • Borrow only the amount you actually need

Too many hard credit inquiries within a short period can affect your credit score.

Are Bad Credit Loans More Expensive?

They can be.

Your credit history can influence the interest rate a lender offers. A higher rate can significantly increase the total cost of borrowing.

Before borrowing, check:

  • Interest rate

  • Monthly fees

  • Other borrowing fees

  • Payment amount

  • Repayment period

  • Total amount you will repay

  • Late payment consequences

Do not choose a loan based only on whether you can get approved quickly.

How Much Should You Borrow?

Borrow only what you actually need.

Review your budget before taking on a new payment. Make sure you can still afford your regular expenses after making the loan payment.

Note: KOHO product information and/or features may have been updated since this blog post was published. Please refer to our KOHO Plans page for our most up to date account information!

About the author

Quan works as a Junior SEO Specialist, helping websites grow through organic search. He loves the world of finance and investing. When he’s not working, he stays active at the gym, trains Muay Thai, plays soccer, and goes swimming.

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