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People Driven Credit Union

Credit Builder Loans

Start Your Journey Towards Better Credit and Financial Health

Establish or improve your credit with a Credit Builder Loan

Whether you’re new to credit or looking to rebuild your credit score, our Credit Builder Loans are designed to help you achieve your financial goals. By making regular, on-time payments, you can establish a positive credit history and improve your credit score, ultimately paving the way for better financial opportunities in the future. Our Credit Builder Loans offer a safe and structured way to enhance your credit profile while fostering good saving habits.

Membership and eligibility requirements apply; approval is subject to a successful application.

Benefits of a Credit Builder Loan

  • Build Credit: Establish or improve your credit score by making consistent, timely payments that are reported to major credit bureaus.
  • Savings Growth: At the end of the loan term, you’ll have built savings, as the loan amount is held in a secure account until repaid.
  • Accessible to All: Ideal for those with no credit history or poor credit, offering a path to financial stability.

How It Works

  • Apply: Contact us to submit your application for a Credit Builder Loan or visit one of our branches.
  • Loan Amount: The loan amount is typically small (as little as $100) and held in a secured account.
  • Monthly Payments: Make fixed monthly payments over the 18-month loan term.
  • Credit Reporting: Your payment history is reported to the major credit bureaus.
  • Access to Funds: Once the loan is fully repaid, you will have access to the funds in the secured account.

Credit Builder Loan (Secured Loan) Rates

Secured Loan

Max Term

(Months)

APR*

as low as
Share Covered 84 5.25%
Credit Builder Loan (Max $2,000) 18 13.00%
CD Secured Loan (No Money Market, IRA, or Club Accounts) 84 APY + 3.50%

Rates Effective as of:

Frequently Asked Questions

People Driven Credit Union allows early repayment of Credit Builder Loans with no prepayment penalty.
Once the loan is fully repaid, you’ll have access to the funds in the secured account, and your positive payment history will be reflected in your credit report.
A Credit Builder Loan can still be helpful if you have existing credit but are looking to improve your score. It adds positive payment history to your credit report, which can strengthen your credit profile.
Yes, Credit Builder Loans typically come with an interest rate. The rate can vary depending on your credit history.
The loan amounts for Credit Builder Loans from People Driven Credit Union range from a few hundred up to $2,000.
Missing a payment on a Credit Builder Loan can negatively impact your credit score, as People Driven Credit Union will report late or missed payments to the credit bureaus. It’s important to make all payments on time to build a positive credit history.
Building or improving your credit score with a Credit Builder Loan typically takes several months. Consistent, on-time payments over the loan term will have a positive impact on your credit score. The exact time depends on your starting credit history and the loan’s length.
Yes, a Credit Builder Loan can help improve your credit score as long as you make regular, on-time payments. People Driven Credit Union reports your payment history to the credit bureaus, and positive payment behavior can lead to an increase in your credit score over time.
No, the loan funds are typically held in a secured account and are only accessible once the loan is fully repaid. This structure is designed to help you build credit while also fostering a habit of saving.
When you take out a Credit Builder Loan, the loan amount is held in a secured account (such as a savings account). You make regular payments over the loan term, including interest. Once the loan is fully paid off, you gain access to the funds in the secured account, while your payment history has been reported to the major credit bureaus, helping improve your credit score.
A Credit Builder Loan is ideal for individuals with little to no credit history, those with poor credit who want to improve their score, or anyone looking to establish positive credit habits. It is a great option for first-time borrowers or those looking to rebuild their credit.
A Credit Builder Loan is a small, secured loan designed to help individuals establish or improve their credit score. The loan amount is typically placed in a secure account, and the borrower makes fixed monthly payments over a set term. The lender reports these payments to the credit bureaus, helping build a positive credit history.

A personal loan can impact your credit score in several ways:

  • Positive Impact: Making on-time payments can improve your credit score.
  • Negative Impact: Missing payments or defaulting on the loan can harm your credit score. Additionally, applying for a loan results in a hard inquiry, which may temporarily lower your score.

Personal loans can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Debt consolidation
  • Home improvements
  • Medical expenses
  • Major purchases (e.g., appliances, electronics)
  • Special events (e.g., weddings, vacations)
  • Emergency expenses
Yes, it is possible to get a personal loan with bad credit, but it may come with higher interest rates and stricter terms. Consider lenders who specialize in bad credit loans, or use a co-signer to improve your chances of approval and secure better rates.
  • Secured Personal Loan: Requires collateral (e.g., a car or savings account). Offers lower interest rates due to reduced risk for the lender.
  • Unsecured Personal Loan: Does not require collateral. The interest rate is based on your creditworthiness and may be higher than secured loans.
Quick answer: You can check your loan application status by contacting People Driven Credit Union or your assigned loan specialist.

How to check the status

  • Call PDCU member or loan support (248) 263-4100.
  • Have your identifying information ready for verification.
  • Ask whether any additional documents are needed to proceed.

Common questions

How long does a review usually take?

Timing varies by loan type and application volume, so contact PDCU for your current status timeline.
Quick answer: You can make a loan payment through People Driven Credit Union using online tools, automatic options, or approved payment channels.

Ways to make a loan payment

  • Pay through online or mobile banking.
  • Set up recurring automatic payments.
  • Use approved in-branch or phone-supported options when needed.

Common questions

Can I set automatic loan payments?

Yes. Many members choose auto-pay for consistency and fewer missed payment risks.

Disclosures

13.00%

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate: The actual APR and loan term is subject to approval and may be determined upon the borrower’s creditworthiness, the amount borrowed, and the type, value, age, and condition of the collateral offered to secure the loan (when applicable). Rates are effective as of today and are subject to change.

¹Special Loan Rate Discount: Benefit from a .25% reduction when enrolling in our autopay service, which is included in the “as low as” rate advertised. The discount is available to those who setup autopay of their monthly loan payment from a People Driven Credit Union checking or savings account.

Membership Requirement

All accounts and loans require membership at People Driven Credit Union. Membership is available to individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in the State of Michigan, as well as relatives of current members. To complete an application for any account or loan, you will need the following information:
  • A valid Driver's License, State ID, or Passport with your current address
  • Your Social Security Number
A Membership Share Savings Account is required to establish membership at People Driven Credit Union. A $5 deposit secures your ownership share in the credit union and unlocks access to our full suite of products and services. This account earns 0.01% APY with a $5 minimum deposit.

People Driven Credit Union is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender NMLS #776727
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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