Payday Loan Myths and Facts
There are some myths that are often associated with the online payday loan industry, but most are simply not true…
Myth: Payday loans are overwhelmingly expensive and carry extremely high interest rates.
Fact: Payday loans are perfectly manageable for responsible individuals. They operate on a fixed rate (for example, $15 for every $100 borrowed), and, when compared to other alternatives (bouncing a check, late fees, etc.), it is actually a more economical option.
Myth: Payday loans are designed to “trap” consumers in an endless debt cycle.
Fact: Payday loans are specifically designed to be paid off in full with your NEXT paycheck. You should always only borrow what you can afford to pay back immediately according to the terms of your loan. This will prevent you from getting into an endless cycle of accumulating debt.
Myth: Payday loan lenders are “loan sharks” that feast upon vulnerable consumers and trap them in an untenable situation of debt and despair.
Fact: There are always a few “bad apples” that will try to take advantage of the less-fortunate, but if you do your research and read the fine print, you will find that most lenders are willing to help you get out of your financial crisis. Millions of consumers have turned to payday loans as a safety net and are able to repay the loan once they receive their paycheck.
Myth: There are numerous hidden fees and misleading terms.
Fact: Payday loans include single, flat fees and there are absolutely NO hidden charges or accruing interest.
Myth: Payday advance lenders take advantage of the poor and disadvantaged.
Fact: Statistics show that the largest customers of payday advance loans are the middle class, or those who are currently employed with steady income and an active checking account. At its core, payday advance loans are ideal for those hard-working individuals who have an emergency financial need that cannot be met with conventional bank loans or other means.
Myth: The payday loan industry is unregulated.
Fact: Practically every state has very detailed regulations regarding payday advance loans. States have complete oversight over the industry and monitor how companies do business with consumers. Every company is required by law to disclose any application fees, payday loan rates, and other fees – this is called the Truth In Lending Act.