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It’s very likely that you will need some instant funds at one point in life. For example, your car might get damaged, or you might get sick before your monthly income arrives. In such an instance, you need immediate cash to help you out. With that in mind, the big question is,
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Are Payday Loans Banned In Washington State?
If you reside in Washington, you are lucky because payday lending is allowed in Washington. You should turn to one of the various payday lenders that operate in the State. However, the State has placed perfect measures to ensure the lenders do not overcharge the borrowers. These measures have significantly reduced the number of payday lenders operating in Washington.
The maximum payday loan allowed must not exceed $700 or 30% of the gross monthly income, whichever comes first. Also, the maximum loan term is 45 days. Finance charges for loans of up to $500 should be 15% and below, while those of loans greater than $500 should not exceed 10%. Both roll-overs and extensions are prohibited, plus only eight payday loans are allowed in 12 months. Should the borrower inform the lender before the credit is due, he/she should be given a repayment plan (90-day plan for loans of less than $400 or 180-days for loans exceeding $400). Criminal proceedings against defaulters are also prohibited in this State.
What types of loans are available in Washington State?
Due to the strict measures provided by the State, most payday lenders prefer not to offer services in the State. In such a scenario, the borrowers have to rely on alternatives.
1. Tribal Loans
Tribal lenders are regulated by the federal laws and thus immune to the Washington laws. Though they have strict eligibility criteria, they are a good source of fast cash.
Pros
- Available for folks with bad credit
- Available online
- Convenient repayment plans
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Creditor sets the terms
2. Credit Card Cash Advance
This option is no different from payday loans due to the high-interest rates that accompany it. Nonetheless, it’s worthwhile due to the limited payday lender’s availability.
Pros
- Convenient
- Easy to qualify
Cons
- High fees and interest rates
- May increase your budget
3. Connection Service
Connection service providers do not offer loans. Instead, they have a broad network of lenders, and thus they can connect you with an ideal lender while still in Washington State.
Pros
- An extensive network of lenders
- Considerable charges and terms
Cons
- Hidden fees
- Terms and conditions vary from one lender to the other
4. Installment Loans
An installment loan is similar to a payday loan, but then its repayment period is longer. For this reason, the rates are reduced. You can pay the loan from several months to some years.
Pros
- Flexible repayment plan
- Best for individuals with good credit
Cons
- Hidden prepayment charges
- Longer repayment periods
How Can I Apply For A Loan In Washington?
You can choose whether you will apply for a cash advance online or from a physical office. If you select a physical office, you will be required to fill in an application form and submit it to the officers. The lender then checks your credit, and if satisfied, your loan is approved. It takes less than 10 minutes, and cash will be available in your bank account you provide in less than two days.
Alternatively, you can apply for a loan online. You visit the selected lender’s website and fill in the information they require. In most cases, you fill in your name, email, phone number, address, bank account, and the social security number to verify your identity. After submitting the information, the lender checks it against their requirements, and if it passes, the lender displays the personalized loan terms, charges, and rates. If satisfied, you put a digital signature and wait for the funds to be deposited in your bank account.
What Is The Eligibility To Apply For A Loan In Washington?
To qualify for a loan in Washington, you have to meet the following requirements. The requirements are not limited to these and may vary depending on the lender.
- Must be a US citizen and a resident of Washington
- Must be at least 18 years (though some lenders may require a higher age limit)
- Must have a consistent income
- Proof of residence
- Have a checking account in your name
- Must have taken less than 8 payday loans in a year
- Must not have another installment loan
- A government-issued ID(storefronts only)
Top 5 Lenders In Washington
1. Lend You
Lendyou is a connection service that offers cash advances of $100 to $15000. Their minimum MPR is 7.5%. Nonetheless, the Washington laws have to apply on them of at least 30% of your monthly income or else $700 only.
- Fast turn around
- Accepts bad credit
- No collateral
- Does not guarantee a loan offer
- The loan amount is highly dependent in the lender you are matched with by the company
2. OppLoans
OppLoans provides short-term installment loans in Washington, among other States. They provide loans of $500 to $5000 with an APR of no greater than 199%.
- Bad credit is accepted
- Longer repayment periods
- Straight forward application
- Have to comply with state laws
- Interest rate is possibly high
3. Greenlight Cash
Greenlight Cash operates as a connection service offering payday loans of up to $1000 without taking much interest in your credit status. They do not require collateral, and interest follows the state regulations.
- Available for individuals with bad credit
- Broad network
- Fast application
- The interest rate may be high
- Independent lenders may have extra charges
4. CashNetUSA Loan
CashNetUSA provides payday loans, line of credit, or installment loans. Though the state laws heavily regulate it, its services are still available.
- Fast cash
- Easy application
- Heavily regulated
- Tough requirements
5. Check Into Cash
Check Into Cash gives both payday loans, phone top-up, bill pay, and check cashing service. Their payday loans do not exceed $1000. Unlike many payday lenders in Washington, they require borrowers to be at least 21 years of age, among other requirements.
- Diversity in use of the money
- Fast cash disbursement
- Safe and secure
- Maximum loan is small
- A 21 years age limit
- No physical state in Washington
Quick FAQs
It depends on the lender you choose. Most lenders will request your SSN to verify your identity and perform a credit check.
What is the maximum number of payday loans that one can apply?
The State of Washington caps the number of simultaneous payday loans at eight per year.
Do poor credit bar residents from getting loans?
No, a good number of lenders will work with individuals with bad credit. However, the rates may be a bit higher.
What are the alternatives to payday loans?
There are plenty of alternatives to taking payday loans. For example, you can turn to government agencies, get side jobs, or apply for assistance programs.
Conclusion
Despite the excessive regulations issued by the Washington state, a good number of lenders still provide payday loans. The most convenient way to get a payday lender in Washington is to use a connection service, thanks to its broad network of lenders. Also, the borrowers can access other services such as tribal loans and installment loans, which cushions them against financial emergencies.