When it comes to borrowing money, the lender you choose can make a big difference in cost and convenience. Mariner Finance has become one of the big, go-to lenders for people who have credit challenges, working in personal loans — both secured and unsecured ones — out of its 480-plus branches all over the United States.
In this review of Mariner Finance for 2025, we give you a complete underneath the hood look at its loan services, interest rates, terms and customer service as well availability compared to similar lenders so that you can decide if it’s right lending partner for your financial needs.
Quick Overview of Mariner Finance Personal Loans
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Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $25,000
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APR Range: 16% – 35.99%
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Loan Terms: 12 – 60 months
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Minimum Credit Score: Around 580+ (varies by state and branch)
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Funding Speed: 1–2 business days (same-day possible for in-branch approval)
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BBB Rating: A+
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Trustpilot Rating: 4 stars (based on 646+ reviews)
Mariner Finance Loan Products
Unsecured Personal Loans
Mariner Finance provides unsecured personal loans for borrowers who don’t want to pledge collateral.
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Loan amounts up to $25,000
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Terms between 12 and 60 months
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Requires a credit score typically above 580
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Best for borrowers who want a simple loan without risking assets
Secured Personal Loans
For borrowers seeking larger amounts or lower interest rates, Mariner Finance also offers secured loans.
- Requires collateral, such as a vehicle, savings account or other type of asset
- Possibly lower rates for those who qualify
- The maximum loan value of the property may allow higher loans
Key Features of Mariner Finance Personal Loans
- Flexible Terms: Borrowers can choose from terms of between 12 and 60 months, depending on what will work best for your budget.
- No Prepayment Penalties: There are no prepayment penalties, meaning borrowers can repay loans ahead of schedule without being charged additional fees.
- Cosigner Option: A cosigner can help you get approved and access even better rates.
- Wide Branch Network: Mariner Finance has more than 480 physical locations, something you won’t find with most online lenders.
Rates and Fees
Interest Rates
Mariner Finance’s APR range of 16% to 35.99% is higher than most online lenders and credit unions. The exact rate depends on:
- Credit score and credit history
- Income and employment verification
- Loan amount and length
- Secured or unsecured liability
- State lending regulations
Fees
Borrowers should be aware of additional fees, including:
- Origination Fees: 1% to 8%, depending on loan amount (deducted from the loan by the lender when the money is released; varies by state).
- Fees of Late Payment: If you miss your payments, then this fee will be charged.
- Bounced Payment Fees: Charged when you don’t have enough money in your account.
- 15-Day Return Policy: Borrowers may return the proceeds of a loan within 15 days, without any cost.
Application Process
Online Application
Borrowers can start by applying online:
- Pre-qualification without impacting credit score
- Digital document uploads
- Convenient and fast approval process
Required Documentation
Applicants typically need:
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Government-issued ID
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Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
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Employment verification
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Bank account details
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Collateral documents for secured loans
Funding Timeline
The majority of loans are approved in a few hours and funding is deposited into an account within 1–2 business days.
Pros and Cons of Mariner Finance
Advantages
- Available to Poor Credit Applicants: Loans are available for applicants with scores as low as 580.
- Branch Access: More than 480 branches for face-to-face assistance.
- Terms to suit you: Choose from 12 – 60 months.
- Cosigner Acceptance: Expands approval opportunities.
- No Prepayment Penalties: Save on interest.
- Rapid Funding: Same-day funding applicants may be eligible for same-day funding.
Disadvantages
- High Rates: 16%–35.99% APR are much higher than for banks and credit unions.
- Origination Fees: Can increase the total cost of loan dramatically.
- Less Transparent: Rates are not as transparent as other online lender options.
- Geographic Limitations: Not all U.S. states have access to our services.
- Aggressive Marketing: For some borrowers, the mail-delivered “live checks” that go out to potential applicants may be another scary fishing expedition.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
- Trustpilot: 4 stars (646+ reviews)
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): A+ rated
- WalletHub: 268 mixed reviews
Positive Feedback
- Courteous and helpful loan officers
- Convenient branch access
- Fast funding and approval process
- Flexible payment options
Common Complaints
- High APRs compared to competitors
- Aggressive collections for late payments
- Unwanted loan offers by mail
- Some borrowers have complained about pressure sales techniques
Comparison with Competitors
Mariner Finance vs. Online Lenders
- Rates: More expensive than other online lenders
- Funding: Faster in-person funding
- Service: More personal customer support
Mariner Finance vs. Traditional Banks
- Approval: More likely for applicants with bad credit
- Rates: Higher than banks
- Loan Sizes: Smaller maximum amounts
Mariner Finance vs. Credit Unions
- Rates: Credit unions typically have lower APRs
- Accessibility: Mariner Finance has more branches
- Pros: Credit unions can come with extra membership rewards
Who Should Consider Mariner Finance?
Best For:
- Not ideal for Borrowers with bad to fair credit (580–660)
- Individuals who prefer in-person service
- Those needing quick emergency funding
- Borrowers who benefit from a cosigner
Not Ideal For:
- Borrowers with excellent credit (700+)
- Borrowers who want more than $25,000
- Lowest APR is most important to rate-sensitive borrowers
- Customers who are adverse to going in person
- Recommendations Prior to Apply with Mariner Finance
- Check Your Credit Score: Predicts your possible APR.
Comparison Shop: Request quotes from banks, credit unions and online lenders.
- Know All the Charges: Ask for a list of costs before you sign.
- Take A Look At Secured Loans: Providing some form of security to back up the loan could lower your APR.
- Document Reading: Be sure to understand what you are signing on to.
- Leverage the 15-Day Return Policy: Bail if loan terms are no good.
- Conclusion: Is Mariner Finance Worth It in 2025?
Mariner Finance is a good choice for borrowers with credit difficulties who find it difficult to get approved by high-street banks. For some borrowers, its branch network, quick funding and ability to skip a cosigner are appealing. But with high APRs and fees, it’s not the ideal option for those with good credit.
Best Suited For:
- Borrowers with poor-to-fair credit who need quick access to funds
- Applicants who value face-to-face service
- Those who want repayment flexibility
Better Alternatives For:
- Borrowers with excellent credit
- Those seeking low-interest personal loans
- If you are a borrower who needs high loan limits ($25,000 and up)
In the end, Mariner Finance personal loans are for when you’ve exhausted all other options and can’t find a more affordable source of credit. If you agree to move forward, read through all terms attentively and make sure the repayments will be comfortable within your budget.
