Coastal Credit Union vs Upstart

Coastal Credit Union, established in 1967, is a member-owned financial cooperative based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Originally formed to serve IBM employees, they have since expanded to provide financial services to members across the Triangle region and beyond. Coastal offers various products, including auto loans, mortgages, business loans, and more, focusing on community engagement and competitive pricing. In the auto loan sector, Coastal provides financing for both new and used vehicles, with flexible loan terms that range from 48 to 84 months, allowing borrowers to select a repayment plan that suits their financial needs. Additionally, they offer auto refinancing options for those looking to lower their payments or adjust their loan terms. The credit union is also committed to member education, featuring tools like an auto loan calculator to help potential borrowers make informed decisions. Accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating, Coastal Credit Union emphasizes customer service and ethical business practices. However, becoming a member requires a minimum deposit of $25 into a savings account, which may pose a barrier for some. With mixed feedback on their services, Coastal focuses on community trust and value. Read on for a deeper dive into Coastal’s offerings and how they stack up against competitors.

Upstart, founded in 2012, is an online lender headquartered in San Mateo, California. The company specializes in auto loan refinancing and leverages AI technology to evaluate borrowers beyond traditional credit scores. This approach considers factors such as income, education, and employment history, making it more accessible for individuals with thin or poor credit profiles. Upstart's services are online, offering a convenient and streamlined application process. Key features include flexible loan terms ranging from 24 to 84 months, loan amounts between $3,000 and $60,000, and competitive APRs starting at 5.61% but varying by state. The platform does not charge upfront fees, prepayment penalties, or origination fees unless specific conditions like repossession or late payments occur. One of Upstart's unique aspects is their ability to prequalify borrowers without impacting their credit scores. However, the platform does not offer purchase loans for new or used cars or allow co-borrowers or co-signers. Despite these limitations, Upstart's innovative underwriting process has garnered positive feedback for their inclusivity and efficiency. Upstart has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2015 and holds a high Trustpilot score, indicating intense customer satisfaction. Upstart's AI-driven approach and flexible terms make them a compelling option worth exploring further for those seeking to refinance their auto loans.