Are PayDay Loans Worth it?

PayDay loans are often heard about and sometimes used for a quick alternative to getting cash in hand over a longer process of a private loan. Knowing if they’re worth the investment, time, and even the fees you will have to pay is a big thing to keep in mind before you decide to borrow one.

PayDay loans, though popular, are becoming something that people are staying away from. They have a lot that go into them, and as compared to other loans and options; they might not be the best choice to go with.

We’ve compiled a lot of information about these loans and what to expect from them. You can then make an informed decision on whether a PayDay loan is for you. Read on to learn even more about these and other loans available for further help.

What is a PayDay Loan?


A PayDay loan is a short-term loan that comes with higher fees because of this. There are generally no credit checks, and if you have poor credit, they’re a loan you can easily get a hold of. This is what makes them so appealing to many individuals who are looking for extra cash before their next paycheck.

Those who are living paycheck to paycheck will often borrow from a PayDay loan because it is money quickly provided. You do have to show proof of income in order to borrow from these loans and approve the company to take the money from your bank account on the specified date.

What are the Loan Fees and Rates for a PayDay Loan?


The loan interest rates are a bit higher than that of personal or other loans. You can get up to $17 per $100 that you choose to borrow from the loan. This is a decent amount to think about borrowing. Additionally, you should keep in mind that this means you would be paying 442% on the credit that you borrow.

Usually there are administrative fees that are also added to the amount, and up to 8% additional interest on the amount that you borrow. These fees are big compared to borrowing a personal loan which you’d only pay the 4% to 8% in interest rates on the amount that you choose to borrow.

There is a cap that can be put onto these loans, so keep this in mind. The fees and interest rates can only be so high compared to the amount you’re borrowing to ensure that they do not go over the fair amount of interest that can be charged according to the laws.

What You Should Know About PayDay Loans


The amount you can borrow will go off of the amount of money that you make. This is generally a lower amount, with no more than $1,000 or up to $4,000 depending on how much you want. The area and place that you borrow is going to determine how much money you get to borrow.

You also will not build your credit with these types of loans. You can definitely harm your credit, though, if you are unable to pay the amount you borrow plus the high interest rates back. This is important to think about, as you want to move ahead with the money you’re borrowing.

There are almost always additional fees that you have to pay on top of the amount you borrow and the interest rates. This is important, as you want to work with someone that does not charge you too much in interest, or in the fees that you have to pay on top of the money you borrow from them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Are PayDay Loans Worth it?


Do I have to get a PayDay loan through a specialized financial institution?

You do have to obtain a PayDay loan through a specific institution, rather than a regular bank because this is a specialized type of loan. You will need to do your research on the places you can borrow from to find the more reputable option to go with. This is personal preference, though and there are many specialized financial institutions offering PayDay loans.

Are there big downsides to borrowing a PayDay Loan?

The fees and the high interest rates tend to be the biggest issue that people who borrow PayDay loans are faced with. You can easily see that the rates are much higher, and the pay back terms are much shorter; making these a harder loan to work with.

Are there alternatives to PayDay loans that I could use?

Most definitely. There are a number of alternatives to PayDay loans that you can make use of depending on your needs. Usually, personal loans and paycheck advances are what takes the place of a PayDay loan, though there are many others that offer lower fees and great repayment terms and rates.

Work with the right financial institution

It is important that you work with the right financial institution regardless of the type of loan you choose to take out. When you require money to fix something, make a purchase, or just get by until your next paycheck; make a smarter financial decision with the option you end up going with.

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Amanda Leach

Fifteen years can be a long time to work in one industry, but not when you are doing something that you love. Amanda has enjoyed the freedom of working as a freelance writer for the majority of her career. She has successfully combined her passion and skill for writing while still enjoying a life filled with travel, learning and exciting new experiences. While she loves exploring all different types of writing, her PhD in Consumer Psychology has made her a sought after writer for marketing, business and technology fields. Amanda is a regular contributor to Smarter Loans.

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