If you follow these four tips, you may be able to get a personal loan, even if your credit score is less than perfect. Here’s how:

#1: Do your paperwork. You will need to fill out an application and provide identification, such as your driver’s license, and provide verification of steady income.

#2: Shop around. Lenders are like restaurants—no two are exactly alike. If you get turned down by one, another might say yes. Be persistent. If you get turned down, ask how you can better your chances.

#3: Think small. If you’ve had trouble paying your debts, lenders may be unwilling to lend you as much money as you want. Ask if you can apply for a smaller loan, and make the payments on time. Doing so can help raise your credit score and possibly get a bigger loan in the future.

#4: Improve your credit. Have bad credit? Don’t panic. Make your payments on time and don’t borrow any more on your credit cards. Eventually, negative marks will drop off your credit history.

Don’t know your credit score? Here’s how to get a truly free credit report.