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Loans for Moving Costs
A move is predictable and front-loaded. Everything falls due in the same fortnight, which is why people who can afford it still need to bridge it.
Moving is the rare expense that is both predictable and front-loaded: you know it is coming, and nearly all of it falls due in the same fortnight. Deposit, first month, movers, utility connections and the gap between paying the new place and getting the old deposit back all land at once, which is why people who could afford the move on paper still need to bridge it.
| Key loan information | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan amount | $200 – $5,000 |
| Term | 14 days to 24 months |
| Representative APR | 17.99% – 400% depending on product |
| Collateral | None required |
| Credit check | Soft inquiry, no FICO® impact |
| Funding | Same or next business day |
| Paid to | Your checking account, not the provider |
What actually falls due
| Cost | Rough range | When it is due |
|---|---|---|
| Security deposit | One to two months' rent | At signing |
| First month's rent | Varies | At signing |
| Movers or a rental truck | $150–$2,000 | Moving day |
| Utility connection and deposits | $100–$500 | First week |
| Application and admin fees | $50–$300 | Before signing |
| Basics for the new place | $200–$1,000 | First month |
Add the total, subtract what you have, and borrow the difference rather than a round number. Most people underestimate by leaving out the utility deposits and the first grocery run.
The old deposit is not a plan
Your previous deposit typically returns two to four weeks after you hand back the keys, and it frequently returns smaller than expected. Size the loan as if you will not see it, and use it as an early payment when it does arrive. There is no prepayment penalty, so an early lump sum reduces the interest on every remaining month. See the early payoff calculator.
Which product fits
| Situation | Product |
|---|---|
| Just the truck and the connection fees | Payday loan, $200–$1,000 |
| Deposit and movers | Installment loan, $500–$5,000 |
| The full package, with fair credit or better | Personal loan, from 17.99% APR |
Other things people borrow for
Car repair · Medical bills · Rent & utilities · Home repairs · Vet bills
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a loan to move?
Yes, from $200 to $5,000. Funds go to your checking account, so you can pay a deposit, movers and utility connections directly. Add the full total, subtract what you have, and borrow the difference.
How much does moving cost?
The deposit and first month's rent are usually the largest items, plus $150 to $2,000 for movers or a truck, $100 to $500 in utility connections and deposits, and application fees. Most people underestimate by leaving out the utility deposits.
Should I count on my old deposit coming back?
No. It typically returns two to four weeks after you hand back the keys and often comes back smaller than expected. Size the loan without it, then use it as an early payment when it arrives, since there is no prepayment penalty.
Which loan is best for moving costs?
For the truck and connection fees alone, a payday loan of $200 to $1,000. For a deposit plus movers, an installment loan. With fair credit or better, a personal loan from 17.99% APR is the cheapest option.
Borrow $200 to $5,000 for any purpose
Apply in about five minutes and get a decision in minutes. Checking your rate won't affect your FICO® score.