If you need money quickly for an unexpected expense or to boost your credit score, payday lenders are the solution. These platforms provide fast connections with a suitable lender and ensure that you receive your funds within 24 hours or the next business day.
However, payday loans can be highly risky if not paid back on time – particularly for younger borrowers and people of color.
Unlicensed lenders
The best payday lenders are licensed and adhere to laws that safeguard consumers. You can confirm if your lender is legitimate by checking their license with your state regulator or attorney general.
Unlicensed lenders are a form of predatory lending. They often charge exorbitant interest rates and fees, fail to disclose all loan terms and conditions, or charge balloon payments or other unexpected costs.
Many states have laws that make it illegal to offer short-term, high-interest loans. Any loan made by an unlicensed lender in these jurisdictions is null and void and the lender cannot collect or require you to repay it.
To avoid these lenders, first make sure they are licensed in your state and research what types of loans they provide. If in doubt, reach out to your state’s regulatory agency or obtain free legal advice. Moreover, report any harassing lenders to either your local Trading Standards office or police force.
Direct lending services
Direct lending services are the ideal payday lenders, as they provide an easy application process and speedy funding. Furthermore, direct lenders offer more protection than unlicensed loan sharks who may charge exorbitant interest rates or put you into debt traps.
Direct lending has seen a meteoric rise due to banks’ retreat from middle market spaces since the global financial crisis. This has left businesses with riskier credit profiles scrambling for capital.
However, it’s essential to recognize that not all direct lenders are legitimate. Some scams spread your information among multiple lenders and add extra fees onto your bill.
Other direct lenders are legitimate financial institutions that offer payday loans to people with bad credit histories. Typically, they boast a high approval rate and provide instant online payday loans as well as flexible repayment terms. Some even provide no-denial payday loans that can be deposited directly into your bank account the same day!
Reputation
Though there are countless online payday lenders, it’s wise to do your due diligence before signing on the dotted line. A reliable payday lender should have excellent customer service, competitive rates and fees, and be transparent about their business model. Furthermore, these lenders typically offer various lending options such as loans, lines of credit or installment payments with a reputation for fair treatment of all borrowers.
Fees
Best payday lenders provide a fast and effortless way to access the money you need, regardless of your credit rating. They also provide flexible terms with fixed payments.
However, it’s essential to read the loan terms carefully before signing. Some payday loans come with hidden fees, longer loan periods, higher APRs, and monthly charges that should not be overlooked.
Payday lenders typically charge borrowers various fees, such as processing, bounced-check and late charges. Over the course of one loan, these charges could add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars in extra interest and costs for borrowers.
Fees and APRs differ between lenders, so it’s essential to compare them before you borrow.
MoneyMutual is one of the top payday loan networks, capable of prequalifying you even if your credit history is poor. Furthermore, they provide a wide range of loan amounts.
