 TITLE: What Is an Online Loan Provider? CONTENT: Drawbacks of Online Loan Providers\n----------------------------------\nPotential downsides of borrowing through an online lender include:\n*   **Convenience at a cost**: While it's easy to shop around and close an online loan, poking around with local providers—including the neighborhood banks and credit unions where you might already have accounts—could get you better loan terms. It's more effort, but it could be worth it in the long run.\n*   **Lack of face-to-face contact**: If you have questions or an issue with your loan, you won't be able to drop by a local office to get information. Most reputable online lenders offer solid support via online chat, email and phone, but hours may be limited. END