Personal loans in Maryland
Census ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates; NCUA June 2026 call report; FDIC BankFind, Oct 2026.
Maryland personal loan rules at a glance
| Governing law | Maryland Consumer Loan Law, Commercial Law Title 12, Subtitle 3. (Md. Code, Com. Law § 12-306) |
|---|---|
| Rate cap | Interest on loans of $2,000 or less is capped at 2.75% a month (33% a year) on the first $1,000 and 2% a month (24% a year) on the rest; loans over $2,000 are capped at 2% a month (24% a year) on the whole loan. Interest must be computed on the actual unpaid balance, with no interest in advance or compounding. If principal is still unpaid 6 months after maturity, interest drops to 6% simple a year. (Md. Code, Com. Law § 12-306(a)(6),(b),(d)) |
| License required | Most consumer lenders must be licensed by the Commissioner of Financial Regulation; licenses can be checked on NMLS Consumer Access. (Md. Code, Fin. Inst. Title 11) |
| Loan sizes covered | The rate limits apply to anyone lending $25,000 or less (subject to certain exceptions). (Md. Code, Com. Law Title 12) |
Bad credit loans in Maryland
Bad credit doesn't automatically rule you out in Maryland. Many lenders in our network look at your income and bank activity, not just your score, and offer personal installment loans of $500 to $5,000 to borrowers with fair or poor credit. Rates are higher than prime offers, so compare the monthly payment and total cost before you accept. More on bad-credit loans.
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Estimate only. Your rate depends on your credit, income and state; your lender shows the exact terms before you sign.
Compare neighboring states
Lenders must follow the law of the state where you live, not where you visit.
| State | Rate cap |
|---|---|
| Delaware | No cap; licensed lenders may charge any rate the agreement states. |
| Pennsylvania | Licensed consumer discount companies: $9.50 per $100 yearly add-on plus fees; unlicensed: 6%. |
| Virginia | 36% simple annual interest on licensed $300-$35,000 installment loans. |
| West Virginia | 31% up to $3,500; 27% to $15,000; 18% above. |
| District of Columbia | 24% a year cap; licensed money lenders must include all fees. |
Personal Loans by city in Maryland
Counties in Maryland
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Also see: Payday Loans in Maryland · Title Loans in Maryland · All Maryland loan options
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cap on personal loan interest rates in Maryland?
33% APR on first $1,000 (loans to $2,000); 24% otherwise.
Do personal loan lenders need a license in Maryland?
Most consumer lenders must be licensed by the Commissioner of Financial Regulation; licenses can be checked on NMLS Consumer Access.
Can I get a personal loan with bad credit in Maryland?
Yes, some lenders in our network work with fair or bad credit, but approval is not guaranteed and rates are higher. Licensed lenders in Maryland must follow the state's consumer-lending rules shown above; tribal and bank-partner lenders may follow different rules, so compare the APR on every offer.
How do installment loans work in Maryland?
You apply, the lender reviews your income and credit profile, and if you're approved you receive a lump sum deposited into your bank account. You then repay it in equal scheduled payments over an agreed term, with interest built in. Your agreement shows each payment amount and date before you sign. Maryland residents can see installment loan offers with our free 3-minute form.
How can I get an emergency loan in Maryland?
Unexpected bills happen, and an online emergency loan can help you handle them quickly. Fill out our 3-minute form with your income and bank details, and lenders in our network will review your request. Many make decisions within minutes, and approved funds are often deposited by the next business day. Amounts range from $100 to $5,000, and you're never obligated to accept an offer.
What credit score do I need for a personal loan in Maryland?
There's no single minimum. Some lenders want good credit, but many lenders in our network consider fair, poor and limited credit and weigh your income and job history too. A higher score may get you better rates and larger amounts, while lower scores may still qualify for smaller loans. Find out what's available to you in Maryland with our free 3-minute form.
Can I get a personal loan in Maryland with bad credit?
Yes, it's possible. Many lenders in our network work with borrowers who have fair, poor or limited credit, and they look at factors like income and employment, not just your score. Approval and rates depend on your full profile, and nothing is guaranteed, but checking your options is free. Maryland residents can see if they qualify for $100 to $5,000 in about 3 minutes.