Loan Information Center

Prepared by the BankingUS Editorial Team. Last reviewed October 25, 2026. How we review

Plain-language guides to common US loans, with links to official government sources.

A personal loan is a lump sum of money you repay in fixed installments, usually unsecured, meaning no collateral is pledged.

A mortgage is a loan used to buy or refinance a home, with the property serving as collateral.

An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration and made by approved private lenders.

A VA home loan is a mortgage guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible service members, veterans and some surviving spouses.

USDA home loans are government-backed mortgages designed to help eligible buyers in designated rural areas.

A conventional mortgage is a home loan not insured or guaranteed by a federal agency.

An auto loan finances a vehicle purchase, with the vehicle usually serving as collateral.

Student loans help pay for education and come as federal loans or private loans.

Small-business loans provide capital for startup, equipment, inventory, real estate or working needs.

A home equity loan lets you borrow a lump sum against the equity in your home, usually with a fixed rate.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a revolving credit line secured by your home.

A debt consolidation loan combines several debts into one new loan, ideally at a lower cost or simpler payment.