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Credit Builder Loan Program

Need to rebuild or establish your credit? That’s the purpose of this program—to improve your credit score and help you take control of your financial future.

Your credit score is crucial.

It can help you get approved for a mortgage or line of credit with an optimal interest rate. It can also affect your ability to rent a home, obtain insurance, or set up utilities under your name.

Designed to help establish or rebuild your credit history, our credit builder loan is a secured loan. Here’s how the program works:

  1. Apply for your loan and, once approved, borrow between $500 and $1,000.
  2. We’ll secure your loan with a savings account that’s locked for the term of the loan.
  3. We’ll pay interest at a modest rate while you establish a healthy payment history and repay your loan.1
  4. We’ll report your payments to the credit bureaus on a monthly basis.
  5. Once paid in full, you’ll receive the money you borrowed and likely a better credit score.

Save even more while building your credit score.

Get a 0.5% interest rate2 discount on your Credit Builder Loan when you set up automatic monthly payments from a First State Bank of St. Charles deposit account.

Rates

First State Bank of St. Charles offers competitive rates and rate matching with other banks in our community. Ask your banking center manager for details.1

Two Ways to Apply. Make an appointment or stop by a banking center near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

A few common questions, answered.
  1. Gather necessary documentation. Before you apply, help expedite the application process by gathering documents like proof of income, identification, and financial statements.
  2. Fill out the application accurately. Complete the loan application and be sure to double-check your entries to avoid any errors that could lead to delays in the processing of your application.
  3. Consent to a credit check. First State Bank will perform a credit check as part of the application process. Be prepared for this and understand that your credit score may temporarily decrease due to the inquiry.
  4. Provide additional information if requested. Depending on the type of loan you’re applying for, you may be asked to provide additional information or documentation. Be prepared to provide any requested information promptly to increase your chances of approval.
  5. Once you’ve submitted your application, the lender will review it and make a credit decision. If approved, you’ll receive the funds in your bank account or as cash or a cashier’s check, usually within a few business days. From there, you can use the funds for your intended purpose and start making your monthly loan payments.
When applying for a personal loan, it’s essential to have the following documents ready to expedite the process and increase your chances of approval:
  1. Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  2. Proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, to show that you have the means to repay the loan. Additionally, be prepared to submit documents detailing your employment history and current financial obligations.
  3. Proof of address, as seen on a utility bill or home loan statement.
To qualify for a personal loan, First State Bank looks at your credit score, income and debt-to-income ratio. A good credit score is key to securing a lower interest rate and better loan terms, so it’s important to maintain a positive credit history. We also prefer to see a stable income to ensure you can make timely payments. Having a low debt-to-income ratio also shows that you can manage your finances responsibly. By taking steps to improve your credit score, increase your income and decrease your debt, you can better position yourself to qualify for a personal loan.
No, seeking preapproval for a loan will not affect your credit score. When you apply for prequalification, First State Bank performs a soft credit check that does not appear on your credit report. This allows you to shop around for the best loan terms without worrying about damaging your credit score.
A secured personal loan requires the borrower to put up collateral, such as a car or a house, to qualify for the loan. This collateral acts as security, reducing the risk of default, and allowing the borrower to be eligible for a more significant loan amount or better interest rate. So, while secured personal loans can be a useful financial tool for those with valuable assets, they also come with a level of risk that borrowers need to consider carefully before taking out this type of loan.
  1. Proof of income, such as recent pay stubs or tax returns, to demonstrate your ability to repay the loan.
  2. A valid driver’s license and proof of insurance are typically required.
  3. Any information on the vehicle you’re considering, including the VIN, lienholder’s release, and title.

Disclosures

All loans are subject to approval, credit worthiness and income verification. Must be 18 years old to apply. Certain restrictions, terms, and conditions may apply. Loan programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

1Interest rate and Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may change at any time, at our discretion.