Looking for an Eagle Financial review? Wondering if their personal loans are the right choice for your financial needs? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into Eagle Financial Services, a company that has been providing personal loans since 1994, examining their loan products, application process, customer experiences, and the overall legitimacy of this lender.
This article covers:
- An overview of Eagle Financial Services and their loan offerings
- The loan application process and requirements
- Pros and cons based on past borrower reviews
- A verdict on whether Eagle Financial is a legit and trustworthy lender
- Alternative loan options to consider
Company Overview
Eagle Financial Services, Inc., more commonly known as Eagle Finance, has been providing personal loans to customers since 1994. Based in Florence, Kentucky, this independently-owned company has grown to over 70 locations across Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. Eagle Finance prides itself on offering fast, easy access to personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, with repayment terms between 8 and 24 months.
What sets Eagle Finance apart is their willingness to work with customers who may have less-than-perfect credit. They understand that life can throw unexpected curveballs, and they strive to provide financial solutions to help people get back on track. Whether you need help covering medical bills, home repairs, or just need a little extra cash to make ends meet, Eagle Finance is there to help.
One of the cornerstones of Eagle Finance’s business model is their commitment to treating customers with empathy and respect. They believe in lending with a sense of community, and their branch managers have an average of 20 years of experience in the finance industry. This wealth of knowledge allows them to make informed, local decisions to best serve their customers.
Not so sure about Eagle Finance? There are other online lending platforms you can consider. Read these articles to know more about them.
Overview of Loan Products Offered by Eagle Financial
Eagle Finance offers personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, providing customers with a wide range of borrowing options to suit their financial needs. Whether you need a small loan to cover an unexpected expense or a larger loan to tackle a more significant financial challenge, Eagle Finance has a loan product that can help.
Loan terms at Eagle Finance range from 8 to 24 months, depending on the loan amount and the borrower’s individual circumstances. This flexibility allows customers to choose a repayment plan that aligns with their budget and financial goals. Shorter loan terms generally result in higher monthly payments but less overall interest paid, while longer loan terms offer lower monthly payments but more interest over the life of the loan.
When it comes to fees, Eagle Finance is transparent about the costs associated with their loans. However, specific information about interest rates, origination fees, and other charges is not readily available on their website. Customers are encouraged to contact their local branch or apply for a loan to get a clearer picture of the fees they can expect to pay.
It’s important to note that Eagle Finance’s interest rates may be higher than those offered by traditional banks or credit unions. This is because they often work with borrowers who have less-than-perfect credit or limited borrowing options. However, their rates are typically more competitive than those of payday lenders or title loan companies.
One potential drawback to be aware of is Eagle Finance’s policy on collateral. Depending on the borrower’s credit profile and the loan amount requested, the company may require customers to put up collateral, such as a vehicle title, to secure the loan. This can put the borrower’s assets at risk if they default on the loan.
Late payments can also be costly with Eagle Finance. The company may charge significant fees for missed or late payments, which can add to the overall cost of the loan. Borrowers should carefully review their loan agreement and make every effort to pay on time to avoid these additional charges.
What is the Loan Application Process?
Applying for a personal loan with Eagle Finance is a straightforward process designed to be quick and convenient.
Customers have three options for applying:
- Online
- Over the phone
- In person at one of Eagle Finance’s 70+ locations across Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana
To begin the online application process, customers can visit the Eagle Finance website and fill out a simple form with basic information, including their name, contact details, and desired loan amount. Once submitted, a representative from Eagle Finance will typically follow up within one business day to gather additional information and discuss next steps.
For those who prefer a more personal touch, applying over the phone or in person at a local branch is also an option. When applying by phone, customers can call the Eagle Finance customer service line and speak with a representative who will guide them through the application process. At a local branch, customers can meet with a loan specialist face-to-face to discuss their financial needs and complete the application.
Regardless of the application method chosen, Eagle Finance generally requires applicants to provide
- Proof of income
- Proof of residence
- A valid government-issued ID
For certain loan amounts or credit profiles, additional documentation may be required, such as bank statements or collateral information.
One of the advantages of applying with Eagle Finance is the speed of the decision-making process. In many cases, customers can receive a decision on their loan application within 24 hours. If approved, funds can be disbursed quickly, often within one to two business days, depending on the loan agreement’s specifics and the customer’s chosen method of fund delivery.
It’s important to note that while Eagle Finance does consider applicants with less-than-perfect credit, not all applications will be approved. Factors such as income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history will all play a role in the decision-making process. However, even if an application is denied, Eagle Finance representatives may be able to provide guidance on steps customers can take to improve their financial situation and increase their chances of approval in the future.
Eagle Financial Review: What Past Borrowers Say
The Pros
- Quick and Easy Application Process: Many customers have mentioned the ease of applying for a loan with Eagle Finance, appreciating the straightforward and speedy process to get approval.
- Flexible Payment Options: Customers value the flexibility Eagle Finance offers when making payments. This adaptability helps borrowers manage their finances more effectively, especially in times of financial uncertainty.
- Approval with Bad Credit or Past Bankruptcy: Eagle Finance is noted for providing loan approvals to individuals with bad credit histories or past bankruptcies, offering a financial lifeline to those who may struggle to obtain credit elsewhere.
- Longevity in Business: The company’s long time in business has been seen as a positive aspect, suggesting stability and a solid track record in the finance industry. Eagle Financial has been operating since 1994.
- Accessible for a Range of Needs: Customers appreciate that Eagle Finance’s loans can cover a wide variety of needs, from emergency expenses to home repairs, medical bills, or even vacations, making it a versatile financial solution.
The Cons
- Extremely high interest rates and fees: Many reviews mention being charged exorbitant interest and fees that make the total amount owed much higher than the original loan amount. One borrower said they took out $2500 and ended up owing over $8000.
- Aggressive, harassing collection practices: Numerous complaints describe Eagle harassing borrowers, their family members and workplaces with constant calls when payments are missed. Some allege illegal collection practices.
- Deceptive about loan terms: Several reviews accuse Eagle of not clearly explaining the full terms, interest rates and fees and pressuring people to sign without full disclosure. Insurance and other add-ons are described as mandatory rather than optional.
- Unhelpful with financial hardships: Many borrowers complain that Eagle is unwilling to work with them on realistic payment plans when they experience job loss or other financial difficulties. They are inflexible about renegotiating terms.
- Poor customer service: Rude, unhelpful interactions with staff are frequently mentioned, with representatives yelling at customers or hanging up on them. Getting clear answers about payoff amounts is difficult.
- Very difficult to resolve disputes: Borrowers have a hard time disputing issues with their accounts, often getting the runaround between Eagle and collection agencies with no resolution.
- Not transparent about loan qualifications: Some people report being pre-approved for loans but then later denied with no clear reason given, or having to submit to a hard credit pull to get any information about rates and fees.
- Loans are only available in 3 states: Eagle Financial only operates in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio, so their loans are not available to borrowers in most states.
- Requires collateral like car titles: Several reviewers mention having to provide their vehicle title as collateral for the loan, putting their transportation at risk. But Eagle sometimes refuses to repossess the vehicle if the borrower defaults, instead pursuing legal action.
- Legal actions and wage garnishment: Quite a few borrowers report having their wages garnished after court judgments for non-payment. The garnishments continue for a long time with no clear payoff date, taking a large portion of their paychecks.
- Lack of communication and documentation: Some customers had difficulty getting copies of their loan agreements and payment histories. Communication from the company was often inconsistent.
- Potential privacy and information sharing concerns: One reviewer accuses Eagle of sharing their personal information with third parties for marketing. Another said collectors disclosed details of their debt to family members and employers.
The Verdict – Is Eagle Financial Legit?
Based on the overwhelmingly negative customer reviews and the numerous red flags in Eagle Financial’s business practices, I would strongly advise against taking a loan from this company. While they may be a legally operating business, their practices appear to be predatory and unethical.
The extraordinarily high interest rates and fees, lack of transparency about loan terms, and aggressive collection tactics reported by many borrowers are all major warning signs. It seems that Eagle Financial profits by trapping vulnerable borrowers in a cycle of debt that is very difficult to escape.
The few positive reviews do not outweigh the consistent pattern of complaints about deceptive practices, unhelpful customer service, and failure to work with borrowers experiencing hardships. The risk of damaged credit, wage garnishment, and loss of collateral like vehicle titles is far too high.
While Eagle Financial may be a “legit” company in the sense that they are legally registered and operating, their practices are concerning at best and predatory at worst. They do not appear to operate with integrity or have their borrowers’ best interests in mind.
If you need a personal loan, I would recommend searching for more reputable lenders with transparent terms, reasonable interest rates, and a history of positive customer experiences. Look for lenders that are upfront about all costs and fees, responsive to customer service issues, and willing to work with borrowers who experience financial difficulties.
Always carefully review the full terms of any loan before signing and don’t let yourself be pressured into an agreement you don’t fully understand. With so many troubling reviews, I would steer clear of Eagle Financial and explore other, more trustworthy options. Your financial well-being is too important to risk with a lender that has such a negative track record.
Eagle Financial Loan Alternatives
When considering financial options, especially for individuals with bad credit, exploring alternatives to Eagle Financial loans can provide a broader perspective on available choices. Consider these notable alternatives worthy of your attention:
Possible Finance
Possible Finance offers a way to access small loans quickly, even if you don’t have a stellar credit score, as they don’t perform hard credit checks. However, it’s important to be aware that these loans come with high annual percentage rates (APRs). Also, be prepared for a lack of transparency around the exact loan terms. The specific terms you’ll receive will vary based on the amount you borrow and your overall financial profile.
Brigit
Brigit offers an alternative to traditional loans with small-dollar advances on your upcoming paychecks. This service is convenient for covering minor expenses and operates on a monthly fee structure. However, be aware that there is limited transparency regarding the exact terms of the advances.
Dave
Dave is a payday advance app with a focus on helping users avoid costly bank overdrafts. It provides alerts when your balance is low and offers interest-free cash advances. While this can be beneficial, there is a monthly membership fee to use the service. The maximum amount you can borrow in the form of an advance is typically $250.
Earnin
Earnin gives users the ability to access a portion of their earned wages before their scheduled payday. Uniquely, it doesn’t charge interest or mandatory fees, instead relying on a voluntary tipping system. This makes it a potentially attractive option for quick cash, but it’s important to be aware that the service’s revenue depends on these tips. The amount you can access and the repayment terms are linked to your next paycheck.
Affirm
Affirm is designed for shoppers who want to purchase items and pay for them over time. It functions as a buy-now, pay-later service, letting you spread out payments over weeks or months. Benefits include no late fees, but be aware that APRs can vary, and for some purchases, you might need to make a down payment. Loan terms typically range from three to twelve months.
Avant
Avant specializes in personal loans with amounts ranging from $2,000 to $35,000. They offer longer repayment terms, making them suitable if you need a larger sum of money and want to spread payments out. However, it’s important to be aware that Avant’s loans tend to have higher APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) and can include various fees.
Conclusion
While Eagle Financial Services has been in business for nearly three decades and offers personal loans to customers with less-than-perfect credit, the overwhelming majority of customer reviews paint a troubling picture. The company’s sky-high interest rates, lack of transparency, aggressive collection practices, and poor customer service suggest that their loans may do more harm than good for many borrowers.
Although Eagle Finance may be a legally operating business, their practices appear to be predatory and unethical, trapping vulnerable borrowers in a cycle of debt. The risk of damaged credit, wage garnishment, and loss of collateral is simply too high.
If you’re in need of a personal loan, it’s crucial to explore other, more reputable options. Look for lenders with transparent terms, reasonable interest rates, and a commitment to working with borrowers facing financial difficulties. By carefully reviewing loan agreements and considering alternatives like Possible Finance, Brigit, Dave, Earnin, Affirm, or Avant, you can make a more informed decision that prioritizes your long-term financial well-being.
Your financial health is too important to risk with a lender that has such a consistent track record of negative customer experiences. Choose wisely, and don’t let the allure of quick cash blind you to the potential pitfalls of high-interest, predatory loans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for an Eagle Financial loan?
Eagle Financial provides personal loans to borrowers in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. To qualify, you typically need a minimum credit score of 620, although they state they may work with people with lower credit scores or past bankruptcies. However, lower credit scores will likely result in higher interest rates. You also need to provide proof of income and meet other underwriting criteria. It’s best to contact a local branch to discuss your specific eligibility.
2. How much can you borrow from Eagle Financial?
Eagle Financial offers personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The exact amount you can borrow will depend on factors like your income, credit history, debt-to-income ratio, and the value of any collateral you provide (such as a vehicle title). Keep in mind that even if you are approved for a higher amount, it may not be wise to borrow more than you can reasonably afford to repay.
3. What are the interest rates and fees for Eagle Financial loans?
Eagle Financial does not disclose their specific interest rates and fees upfront. Based on customer reviews, the interest rates appear to be very high, often exceeding 100% APR. There are also multiple complaints about significant additional fees. Borrowers report that the total amount owed ends up being much higher than the initial loan amount. It’s crucial to carefully review all rates and fees before agreeing to a loan and to ask questions if anything is unclear.
4. How long does it take to get funds from an Eagle Financial loan?
Eagle Financial states that they can often make a loan decision within 24 hours of receiving your application. If approved, they claim you can receive your funds within one to two business days, although some borrowers report delays in funding. The exact funding time may vary depending on your specific circumstances and how quickly you can provide any required documentation.
5. What are the repayment terms for Eagle Financial loans?
Eagle Financial offers loan repayment terms ranging from 8 to 24 months, depending on the loan amount and your individual financial situation. They claim to offer flexibility in repayment, with options to pay online, by phone, or in person at a branch. However, many customers report difficulty getting clear information about their payoff amount and date. Late or missed payments can result in significant additional fees and collection actions.
6. Can you repay an Eagle Financial loan early?
Eagle Financial does allow early repayment of their loans, but you may not save as much on interest as you expect. Some borrowers report that even when paying off their loan early, they were still required to pay the full amount of interest and fees for the original term of the loan. Be sure to ask about their specific policies regarding early repayment before signing your loan agreement.
7. What happens if you can’t pay your Eagle Financial loan?
If you cannot make your payments on an Eagle Financial loan, you should contact their customer service as soon as possible to discuss your options. However, many borrowers report difficulty getting helpful answers or reasonable accommodations from Eagle Financial when experiencing financial hardship. Late payments will result in additional fees and damage to your credit score. If you continue to miss payments, Eagle Financial may pursue legal action against you, including wage garnishment. They may also repossess any collateral used to secure the loan, such as a vehicle.
Emily Johnson is a seasoned loan expert whose passion lies in empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions. With years of experience in the lending industry, Emily has honed her expertise in various loan products and strategies.