Finding Better Alternatives to payday loans
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How to Find Better Alternatives to Payday loans
Regional and local resources can help you weather an emergency and help you avoid the dangers of payday loans.
By NerdWallet. Follow NerdWallet on social media to stay informed about updates
Jun 7, 2022
Edited by Dawnielle Robert-Walker Assistant McGraw Hill, Hallmark Cards, Forbes Health Dawnielle Robinson-Walker spent 16 years as an college English instructor in teaching African-American literature and creative writing before she began editing and writing for various businesses including online journals. Prior to joining NerdWallet, she was an editor at Hallmark Cards and a contributing writer for Forbes Health.
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When you’re facing an emergency situation — such as a car repair, medical bill, or any other unexpected expenses and you don’t have the funds to pay for the cost the cost, a payday loan might seem like the only option. However, there are other options that are less expensive in comparison to payday loans.
Discover more affordable alternatives and learn more about the risks of payday loans.
Alternatives to local payday loans
Many communities have charities, nonprofits and other organizations that are able to aid in covering an emergency expense so you won’t need to get the payday loan.
We’ve found local and regional sources that could help, whether through aid programs or even small loans. Select your state below to find options near you.
About these resources
NerdWallet has vetted these organizations to ensure that they offer assistance in the event of expenses like utility bills, transportation, and other emergency needs. Some offer advice and education to help you make informed financial decisions , even after the immediate crisis has ended.
These organizations not only provide an alternative in the form of payday loans, but they can also assist in avoiding an endless cycle of debt that can trap you for years.
There are many alternatives to payday loans
If you can’t find a local organization to cover your financial need there are alternative options that are more secure and affordable.
: If your need is minimal, you may not have to borrow money. There are several ways to make quick cash by being creative ways, like selling your spare electronics or unused gift cards or taking an occasional side job.
Payday alternative loans let you borrow small amounts of cash at a lower price and with a longer repayment term than a payday loan. These loans are offered at Federal credit unions, but local credit unions might offer similar products. It is necessary to become a part of the credit union prior applying.
Cash advance apps can be a great way to pay for an unexpected expense by allowing you to borrow money from your next paycheck before you get it. Some apps charge a small cost for the use of their service.
If you’re in the market to purchase an essential item from a major retailer There’s a good chance you can use a buy now, pay later payment plan. These plans don’t require a credit check and can divide the purchases into equally-sized installments, often with no interest.
Take a look at an informal personal loan from an online lender can cover the cost of an emergency, and some lenders accept applicants with bad credit (FICO score of 629 or less). As long as you provide all of the required documentation and documents, you will usually receive money the same day that you apply or the following day.
How can payday loans harmful?
They are short-term loans that are usually $500 or less, that are expected to be paid back with your next pay. You can get payday loans payday loan in person at the storefront or on the internet, by presenting evidence of income, proof of identity and the bank account. Payday lenders don’t typically examine your credit score, which makes the loans more accessible to borrowers.
But, payday loans are some of the most risky loans you can take out because:
High fees: Cost of borrowing differs according to the payday lender, however a typical fee structure is $15 for each $100 borrowed. That’s 391% APR, much higher than the cap of 36%, which most financial experts agree is the highest rate of annual percentage that a loan can have and still be considered to be affordable.
May create a cycle of debt: Because of their high costs, payday loans can create a cycle of debt that’s difficult to break out of. For example, if you have $100 in your account but have to pay $115 just two weeks later, there’s a great chance you won’t have the funds to repay. It could be necessary to extend the due date, which means another fee. Repeat this process a few times and you may end up paying more than you originally borrowed.
Don’t build credit: Payments toward the payday loan are not typically reported to the credit bureau, which means you aren’t able to use this type of loans for credit building. A good credit score is important for getting financing options that are more affordable in the near future.
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