Our Methodology

1. Data Sources

LendNavigator aggregates information from multiple source types. Depending on the product category, sources may include official datasets, provider websites and disclosures, partner integrations and affiliate networks, and third-party APIs where relevant.

• Official datasets (e.g., Federal Reserve / FRED series for historical trends).
• Provider disclosures (rates, fees, eligibility, terms).
• Partner feeds (offer catalogs, tracking links).
• Third-party APIs (structured product feeds and updates).

2. Freshness & Updates

Rates and terms can change frequently. When possible, we refresh datasets on a regular cadence (category-dependent), store “last updated” timestamps, and link you to the provider for final verification. If there is a mismatch between our displayed information and a provider’s official disclosure, the provider’s disclosure governs.

3. Verification & Quality Controls

• Normalization: convert different formats into comparable fields (APR ranges, fees, reward rates, term lengths).
• Consistency checks: detect missing fields, stale values, and unusual outliers.
• Source reconciliation: prefer the most direct and most recently updated provider disclosure where available.
• Corrections workflow: reported issues are reviewed and updates applied to content and/or datasets.

4. How We Score & Rank

Depending on the category, scoring may consider cost (APR/fees), value (rewards/yield), flexibility, accessibility, and experience signals. We may present multiple views (e.g., “Lowest APR”, “Best for Rewards”) because “best” depends on user needs.

Commercial relationships do not buy a better score. Compensation may affect placement or labeling, but evaluation criteria remain consistent.

5. Sponsored / Featured Placement

Some placements may be featured based on commercial arrangements. When applicable, we aim to clearly label sponsored placements and provide context so users can compare alternatives.

6. Market Coverage & Limitations

We do not include every provider or product in the market. Availability can vary by state, credit profile, and eligibility factors. We may exclude offers if key terms cannot be verified or kept reasonably current.

7. Disclaimers

The information on LendNavigator is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Always review official provider disclosures before applying.