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Fast Loan Options In Canada

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June 18, 2025

icWritten by:

Amy Orr
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Exploring Fast Loan Options Across Canada

Sometimes life throws you a curveball, such as a surprise bill, urgent car repair, or unexpected business expense, and you need cash fast. That’s where instant loan options come in handy. Fast loans are very accessible in Canada, but not all fast loans are created equal. Some come with higher interest rates or stricter repayment terms, so it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. 

So let’s take a look at the most common fast loan types in Canada, how they work, and what to watch out for. If you’re in a pinch, the right loan can offer relief, but making an informed choice is key to avoiding added stress.

What Are Fast Loans and How Do They Work?

Fast loans are exactly what they sound like: quick, short-term financing solutions designed to get you money when you need it most. The big appeal is speed. Many lenders offer same-day or next-day approval, and some even provide instant funding if you qualify.

These are loans that are usually smaller amounts and come from online lenders, payday loan providers, or even certain banks and credit unions. The process is often simple: fill out an online application, share some basic financial info, and get a decision within hours. 

Top Lenders Offering Quick Cash Solutions

Borrowell: Quick Online Loans with a Personal Touch

Borrowell has become a go-to for Canadians looking for fast, hassle-free loans. The application is fully online, and you can get pre-qualified offers in minutes based on your credit profile. 

What’s great is they also give you access to free credit monitoring, so you can track your score while exploring loan options. Whether you need a small personal loan or a bit of breathing room between paydays, Borrowell connects you to trusted lenders. It’s user-friendly, transparent, and ideal if you want to compare offers without ding your credit.

Mogo: Fast Funding with a Side of Credit Wellness

MOGO is a digital platform that also helps you manage your credit health. With loans ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, Mogo offers flexible repayment terms and fast approval, often within the same day. They’re known for their easy-to-use app and tools that help you track spending, monitor credit, and even offset your carbon footprint. 

EasyFinancial: In-Store and Online Loan Access

EasyFinancial offers fast personal loans to Canadians who might not qualify with traditional banks. With over 400 locations and an easy online application process, they’re a solid option for both in-person and digital borrowers. 

Approval can be quick, even for those with less-than-perfect credit, and you can receive funds in as little as 24 hours. While interest rates can be higher, the flexibility in payment plans and support for rebuilding credit make EasyFinancial worth considering if you need access to quick cash and more personalized service.

Pros and Cons of Fast Loans

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of fast loans in Canada:

Pros Cons
Quick access to cash Higher interest rates
Simple application process Shorter repayment terms
Good for emergencies Risk of debt cycle
Available to many credit types Limited loan amounts
Online & convenient  Potential fees

Pros of Fast Loans

Fast loans can be a real lifesaver when you’re dealing with an unexpected expense or emergency. One of the biggest perks is speed; some lenders can approve and deposit funds into your account within hours. The application process is usually simple, especially with online lenders, so there’s less paperwork and waiting around. Fast loans are also more accessible to people with varying credit scores, which makes them a good option when traditional banks say no. 

And if you’re in a bind, they offer a quick solution without having to tap into long-term savings or investments.

Cons of Fast Loans

While fast loans are convenient, they do come with a few trade-offs. Most notably, they often have higher interest rates compared to traditional loans, which can make repayment costly if you’re not careful. The repayment terms are typically short, meaning you’ll need to pay the loan back quickly, sometimes in just a few weeks. 

There’s also the risk of getting trapped in a cycle of borrowing, especially if you rely on these loans repeatedly. Also, some lenders may charge hidden fees or penalties, so it’s crucial to read the fine print before signing anything.

Who Can Qualify for a Fast Loan in Canada?

Almost anyone can qualify for a fast loan in Canada, but it really depends on the lender and the type of loan you’re applying for. Many fast loan providers are more flexible than traditional banks, meaning even if you have a lower credit score or limited credit history, you still have a shot. 

That said, most lenders will still look at a few key things: your income, employment status, and ability to repay. Some loans, like payday loans, require very minimal checks, while others, like personal installment loans, might ask for a bit more documentation. Having a steady income (even from self-employment or government benefits) can boost your chances. It’s also a good idea to have a Canadian bank account and be of the age of majority in your province if you want to almost guarantee approval. 

Requirement Checklist for Fast Loans 

  • Be the age of majority in your province or territory (usually 18 or 19 years old)
  • Have a steady source of income (employment, self-employment, or government benefits)
  • Hold an active Canadian bank account.
  • Provide a valid government-issued ID
  • Have a working phone number and email address.
  • Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
  • Have a verifiable residential address in Canada.
  • Meet the lender’s minimum credit or affordability criteria (varies by provider)

Fast loan options can be super helpful when you need money quickly. With so many online lenders and alternative financing providers out there, it’s easier than ever to apply and get approved, sometimes within the same day. 

That said, it’s important to borrow wisely. Fast doesn’t always mean cheap, and high interest rates or short repayment terms can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Always read the fine print, understand the terms, and make sure the loan fits your budget. If used responsibly, a fast loan can be a helpful financial tool, not a trap.

videoWritten by:

Amy Orr

Amy Orr is a professional writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in the Canadian, U.S. and U.K. financial markets. She has written for numerous publications on topics as diverse as economic literacy, corporate finance, and technical analysis of numerical data. Prior to transitioning to full-time writing, she worked in the hedge fund sector. Her academic background is astrophysics, and she has a Masters in Finance from the University of Edinburgh Business School.

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