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Hannah Smith

Editor, Personal Loans
  • 3
    Years at Bankrate
  • 6
    Years of experience
Ribbon Icon EXPERTISE
  • Personal loans
  • Student loans
  • Data analysis
Education Icon EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Arts in English, Kennesaw State University
  • Master of Arts in English, North Carolina State University

Hannah Smith is a former Bankrate editor specializing in personal loans. They are meticulous in their approach to ensuring users can navigate the complexities of loans with the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Prior to joining the Bankrate team, Hannah was an editor for House Method where they edited and published over 400 articles aimed at helping readers make informed decisions on home renovations and services.

Hannah currently lives in Raleigh. When they are not editing, they enjoy walking with their dog, playing tabletop games and reading.

Shopping around with multiple lenders is truly the key to getting the best rate for your loan. Each lender will offer different incentives, perks and rates. When I was applying for a loan to get a car, I checked with a minimum of three lenders — including a credit union — to ensure I was getting the best rate for the long term.

— Hannah Smith

Hannah's Picks

A hand applies a stamp to a document.
4 MIN READ

How to get a low interest loan in 7 steps

Here’s how to qualify for a low interest personal loan.

An Asian woman looks at paperwork
4 MIN READ

What is an unsecured loan?

These loans don’t require collateral and typically charge higher interest rates.

Young woman working at home
5 MIN READ

What is the APR on a personal loan?

An APR is a snapshot of how much your personal loan will cost each year.

Man with laptop on table in front of him using calculator
6 MIN READ

Pros and cons of debt consolidation: Is it a good idea?

Weigh the pros and cons to decide if debt consolidation is right for your situation.

A young woman standing with her phone in her hands, looking off. There is an illustrated semicircle behind her.
7 MIN READ

Should you get a personal loan? Here are the pros and cons

Personal loans are a quick source of cash, but be careful how you use them.

A cafe customer sitting by the window in her favorite cafe, using her smartphone and relaxing.
3 MIN READ

Current personal loan statistics in 2025

Interest rates are rising, so what does that mean for your finances?

Woman making notes
5 MIN READ

Personal loan vs. home equity loan: Which is better?

Compare personal loans and home equity loans to see which is best for your finances.

White man works on laptop while talking on a cellphone
6 MIN READ

5 ways to get an emergency loan with bad credit

Four loan options to consider when you’re facing an emergency bill or expense.

Hannah's latest articles