Payday loans are short-term, high-interest loans that provide fast cash until the borrower’s next paycheck. They are also sometimes called cash advances, check advances, or deferred deposit loans.
Payday loans work by providing an amount of cash upfront in exchange for authorization to electronically withdraw funds from the borrower’s bank account on their next payday. The repayment amount will include the loan principal plus fees and interest.
Payday loans are offered by payday lending stores, check cashing outlets, pawn shops, and increasingly online. They cater to borrowers who have poor credit, limited access to other forms of credit, and an immediate need for cash.
Unlike installment loans or lines of credit, payday loans have a very short repayment term – usually two to four weeks, aligned with the borrower’s pay cycle. They are intended to provide funds until the next paycheck, when the full balance becomes due all at once. This distinguishes them from other short-term lending products that have longer terms and allow payments in installments over time.
Pros of Payday Loans
Payday loans offer several potential benefits for borrowers who need quick access to cash. Here are some of the main pros of payday loans:
Quick Access to Cash
One of the biggest advantages of payday loans is that they provide fast access to cash, usually within 24 hours or less. Unlike traditional bank loans that can take weeks to get approved and funded, payday lenders can deposit loan proceeds directly into your checking account as soon as the next business day. This makes payday loans a good option if you have an urgent expense and need money right away.
Minimal Credit Checks
Payday lenders typically only perform a soft credit inquiry to confirm your identity and income. They do not do a full credit check or consider your credit score when approving these loans. This makes it easier for people with poor credit or no credit history to qualify for a payday loan. As long as you have a steady income, you have a good chance of being approved.
Convenient Applications
Applying for a payday loan is quick and convenient. You can apply online or in-store and get an instant decision. The application process only requires basic personal and employment details. You do not have to submit piles of paperwork or wait days or weeks for a decision like with a bank loan. Payday lenders streamline the process so you can get your money as fast as possible.
Cons of Payday Loans
Payday loans can seem like an easy solution when you need cash quickly, but they come with some significant downsides to be aware of.
High Fees and Interest Rates
The fees and interest rates associated with payday loans are extremely high compared to other types of loans. Payday lenders typically charge $15-$30 for every $100 borrowed. Expressed as an APR, this equates to 391% on average. So a $500 loan could cost over $125 in fees.
The fees are charged each time the loan is rolled over or refinanced. If the full balance is not repaid by the due date, the fees start compounding rapidly. This makes payday loans very expensive in the long run.
Can Lead to Debt Cycles
Because payday loans have balloon payments due all at once, many borrowers struggle to fully repay their loan by the due date. They may have to take out another loan to cover the first one. This can easily spiral into a cycle of debt.
Around 80% of payday loans are taken out within 2 weeks of a previous loan. And over half of borrowers end up taking 10 or more loans per year. Once in debt, it can be very difficult to get out.
Risky if Unable to Repay on Time
If the full balance is not repaid by the due date, the consequences can be severe. Not only will fees start piling up, but the lender can deposit the check or debit authorization given as collateral. This can result in overdraft fees or leave you short on funds for other bills.
The lender may also sell the debt to a collection agency. Getting behind on payday loans can badly damage your credit score or lead to legal action. It’s critical to only borrow what you know you can repay on time.
Payday Loan Requirements
To qualify for a payday loans eloanwarehouse, you typically need to meet a few basic requirements:
Be at least 18 years old: Payday lenders require borrowers to be adults, so you must be at least 18 years old to apply. Some states may require you to be even older.
Have valid identification: You will need to show a valid form of ID when applying for a payday loan. A driver’s license, passport, or state ID are commonly accepted. The ID is used to verify your identity.
Have an active checking account: To receive the loan funds, you need to have an open checking account. Payday lenders will deposit the loan amount directly into your account if approved.
Provide proof of income: Lenders require you to show proof that you have a regular source of income. Recent pay stubs from a job are commonly used to verify income. If you are self-employed, bank statements or tax returns may be used. This helps demonstrate your ability to repay the loan.
The lender needs to verify you meet these requirements before they can approve your application. Make sure you have these items handy when applying for a payday loan either online or at a retail location. Meeting these criteria is essential but does not necessarily guarantee approval for the loan.
Payday Loan Fees
Payday loans are notorious for their high fees. Here are some of the common fees to expect with a payday loan:
Origination Fees
This is a one-time flat fee charged by the lender when you take out the loan. It’s usually a percentage of the loan amount, such as $15 per $100 borrowed. So if you take out a $500 payday loan, you may pay a $75 origination fee.
Interest Rates
Payday loans have astronomical interest rates, often 400% APR or higher. This is much higher than rates on credit cards or traditional personal loans. For a 2-week $500 loan with a 400% interest rate, you would owe $575 after 14 days, equaling $75 in interest.
Late Payment Fees
If you can’t repay the loan by the due date, you’ll be hit with late fees. This is usually a flat fee like $20 per late payment. Some lenders charge a daily fee, like $5 per day late. Late fees rack up quickly and make the loan even more expensive.
How to Apply for a Payday Loan
Applying for a payday loan is a relatively straightforward process, whether you apply online or in-store. Here’s what you need to know:
Online or In-Store
You can apply for a payday loan either online or in person at a lender’s store location.
Online
To apply online, you’ll visit the lender’s website, fill out an application with your personal and employment details, and provide your bank account information. Some lenders may have an online application you can complete from your smartphone.
The benefits of applying online include convenience, speed, and privacy. You don’t need to visit a store and can complete the application anytime. Online lenders can approve loans more quickly, sometimes instantly.
In-Store
To apply at a store, you’ll visit a payday lender and meet with an employee to complete the application process. You’ll provide the same personal, employment, and bank account information that you would for an online application.
Applying in-store allows you to ask questions directly to the lender and get assistance completing the application if needed. Approval may take longer than online.
Required Documents
Whether you apply online or in-store, you’ll need to provide certain information and documents. Requirements may vary by lender, but generally you’ll need:
Identification – A valid government-issued ID like a driver’s license or passport.
Proof of income – Pay stubs, bank statements, tax documents showing your income sources.
Bank account info – Account and routing numbers to receive the loan funds via direct deposit.
Contact info – Phone number, email, and physical address.
Having these documents ready will help speed up the application process.
Approval Process
The approval process for payday loans is designed to be fast, often taking just minutes if you apply online. Here are the typical steps:
You complete the application with your personal information, employment details, income, and bank account info.
The lender verifies your identity, income sources, employment, and that you have an active checking account.
The lender reviews your information and makes an approval decision. There is usually no formal credit check.
If approved, you’ll receive the loan funds deposited directly into your bank account as soon as the next business day, or sometimes sooner.
You’ll also receive the repayment terms, including the loan due date and fees. Be sure to review this information carefully.
The lender wants to confirm you have a job and bank account in good standing. As long as you meet the basic requirements, approval is likely quick and straightforward.
Payday Loan Alternatives
While payday loans may seem like an easy solution when you need cash quickly, they often create a cycle of debt that’s difficult to escape. Fortunately, there are healthier alternatives to consider before taking out a high-interest payday loan.
Credit Cards
If you have a credit card with available balance, this can be a better option than a payday loan. Credit card interest rates are generally lower, around 15-30% APR compared to payday loans that can have 400% APR or higher. Just be sure to have a plan to pay off the credit card balance quickly, so you don’t accrue too much interest. Set up automatic payments if possible.
Personal Loans
Banks, credit unions and online lenders offer personal installment loans that can give you lump sum of cash upfront and allow you to pay it back in fixed monthly payments over 1-5 years typically. Interest rates are often lower than payday loans or credit cards, around 5-36% APR. This spreads out payments over time rather than being due all at once like a payday loan.
Friends/Family
Asking a friend or family member for a loan can be an interest-free way to get cash in a pinch. Just be sure to formalize repayment terms and stick to them to avoid damaging personal relationships. Even a signed agreement for small loans can help ensure everyone stays accountable.
Employer Advances
Some employers may be willing to provide an advance on your paycheck if you are in need of quick cash before payday. This allows you to access money you’ve already earned. There’s no interest, and repayment is taken directly out of your next check. Not all employers offer this, but it’s worth exploring if you need cash quickly.
Payday Loan Regulations
Payday loans are regulated at both the state and federal levels. Here are some of the key regulations:
State Laws
Many states cap the maximum payday loan amount, fees, and interest rates. For example, New York limits payday loans to $300 with a maximum 16% fee.
Some states prohibit payday lending entirely, including Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and West Virginia.
States require lenders to be licensed and registered to operate. They enforce laws against unlicensed lending.
States mandate that lenders fully disclose all fees, terms, payment schedules, and APRs to borrowers.
Federal Laws and Proposals
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued regulations in 2017 requiring payday lenders to assess a borrower’s ability to repay before issuing a loan. This “ability-to-repay” standard aims to prevent debt traps.
The Military Lending Act caps interest rates on loans to active military members at 36%. The Department of Defense aims to protect military personnel from predatory loans.
Congress has proposed federal legislation to limit payday loan rates and fees nationwide, but the bills have not passed. Advocates continue pushing for a federal rate cap.
Consumer Protection
Borrowers have the right to cancel a payday loan within 1 business day under the Truth in Lending Act.
The Federal Trade Commission enforces laws against unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent lending practices. Consumers can report issues to the FTC.
Non-profit organizations like the Center for Responsible Lending provide consumer education and advocate for stronger protections.
Managing payday loans
Taking out a payday loan can seem like a quick solution when you need cash fast. However, these loans come with high fees and interest rates that can lead to a cycle of debt if not managed properly. Here are some tips for managing payday loans responsibly:
Budgeting tips
Track your expenses to get a clear picture of where your money is going each month. Knowing your exact financial situation will help you plan repayment.
Cut back on discretionary spending like dining out, entertainment, and other non-essentials. Every dollar saved can go towards paying off your loan.
If you get paid biweekly, set aside money from each paycheck to have available for your next loan payment. This helps avoid missing payments.
Repayment strategies
Pay off the loan as soon as possible. Don’t just make the minimum payments. Paying it off faster reduces the amount of interest paid.
If you can’t pay in full, pay more than the minimum if your budget allows. Even a few extra dollars can make a difference.
Avoid taking out new loans until the current one is paid off. This prevents debt from snowballing.
Avoiding rollovers
Rollovers occur when the lender extends the loan’s due date for a fee rather than having you repay it in full. This racks up fees rapidly.
Set up automatic payments from your bank account for the payoff date. This prevents lenders from just rolling over the loan if you can’t pay.
If you need more time, ask the lender about an extended payment plan without rollovers or extra fees. Some may agree if you contact them proactively.
If you can’t pay at all, contact the lender as soon as possible to explain and try to work out an alternative arrangement. Communication is key.
With proper budgeting and a repayment plan, you can take control of payday loans. Focus on paying off the balance promptly and avoiding rollovers that balloon your debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are payday loans?
Payday loans are small, short-term unsecured loans that are intended to cover expenses until the borrower’s next paycheck. They are typically for $500 or less and have fees and interest rates higher than other types of loans. Payday loans do not require a credit check.
How do you qualify for a payday loan?
To qualify for a payday loan, you typically need to be 18 years old, have an active checking account, and regular income. Lenders also require you to provide a post-dated check or electronic withdrawal authorization for the full balance of the loan plus fees. Some may also require proof of income.
What are the costs and fees for payday loans?
Payday loans have very high fees compared to other loan products. You will typically pay $10-30 for every $100 borrowed. This equates to an APR of 400% or more. There may also be origination fees and late payment fees. Read the fine print to understand the full costs.
How do you pay back a payday loan?
Payday loans are due in full on your next pay date, typically in 2-4 weeks. The lender will cash the check or debit the money from your account. If you can’t repay in full, you can pay just the fees to renew the loan, but this leads to growing debt.
What happens if you default on a payday loan?
If you default on a payday loan, the lender can deposit your check or debit your account to collect on the amount owed. If the funds aren’t available, you may face overdraft fees from your bank. The lender can also sell the debt to a collection agency, which could sue you or negatively impact your credit score.
Are there alternatives to payday loans?
Better alternatives include borrowing from family/friends, credit cards, traditional loans, payment plans with creditors, or assistance programs. You can also contact your utility providers, mortgage company, or other lenders to request grace periods or extensions if struggling to make payments. Payday loans should be a very last resort option.