Payday loans offer a unique and reliable lending opportunity for those who need fast cash but might not have the credit score or debt-to-income ratio most lenders require. While these loans come with a high interest rate and require repayment by the time of the borrower’s next paycheck, they can help people make ends meet when other options aren’t available.

And while it is true that payday loans carry a higher interest rate, it doesn’t mean that you will be saddled with excessive fees once you have fulfilled your end of the loan agreement. So this begs the question—how are payday loan interest rates calculated? And how much will you pay throughout the lifetime of your loan?

What is a Payday Loan?

While we alluded to it above, a payday loan is one that offers fast cash, a high approval rate, and the requirement that the loan and any accrued interest is paid in full by the time the borrower’s next paycheck rolls around. 

Payday loans can help bridge the financial gap when you get into a financial pickle. For example, you may be faced with an unexpected car repair and need your car fixed so that you can get to and from work. Perhaps the toilet in your bathroom sprung a leak, and you needed a plumber to come out and fix it. These types of expenses aren’t those that you can necessarily put off. And payday loans help you cover those expenses.

Factors that Influence Payday Loan Interest Rates 

Payday loans, though they can be quite valuable to those who need them, do come with higher-than-average interest rates. Currently, the average interest rate on a personal loan is about 21.17%. Payday loans are higher. For example, at Cash Store, we offer installment loans that can be compared to your typical payday loan. 

These loans come with higher interest rates because they are short-term loans designed to provide fast access to cash for borrowers who may not have access to traditional credit options. These loans also come with an increased risk to lenders, as they are typically given to individuals with lower credit scores or uncertain financial situations.

Because payday loans don’t require extensive credit checks, lenders compensate for the higher risk of default by charging elevated interest rates. Additionally, the administrative costs of processing these loans can further drive up interest rates.

Here are a few factors that influence payday loan interest rates:

• Loan Amount: The size of the loan can impact the interest rate. Larger loans may sometimes come with slightly lower interest rates, though payday loans generally have higher rates overall.
• State Regulations: State laws govern the maximum allowable interest rates for payday loans, so where you live can significantly affect the rate you pay.
• Borrower’s Risk Profile: While credit scores may not be a factor, your income stability and employment status can influence the rate. Lenders assess risk differently based on these unique factors.
• Lender Fees and Overhead: The costs of running the business, including administrative and operational expenses, are built into the loan terms and can affect the overall interest rate.

Tips for Evaluating Payday Loan Options

Because payday loans come with higher interest rates, borrowers need to do their homework before applying and signing on the dotted line. While this might seem obvious, the team at Cash Store wants to provide you with these helpful reminders:

• Read the Fine Print: Always take the time to go through the loan agreement in detail. Pay attention to any hidden fees or ambiguous terms that could impact your repayment plan.
• Calculate the Loan Balance Yourself: Use online tools or calculators to estimate your total loan cost, including interest. Our installment loan calculator can be a helpful resource.
• Contact the Vendor: Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask any questions before you begin the application process. It’s important to clearly understand the terms before moving forward.

Cash Store Offers Installment Loans to Help When You’re in a Pinch

Adopting a responsible financial mindset is such an important part of setting yourself on the path to financial independence. Taking steps to improve your credit score, build an emergency fund, and even think years down the road toward your retirement are all necessary tasks. 

But we understand that things happen and things can get a bit tight. When that happens, Cash Store is here to help. Complete our prequalification application today to get started.