Many people take out a payday loan when they have no other way of getting urgent cash. Whether it’s a sudden medical bill or overdue rent, payday loans are often the only way to get that financial cushion, short of borrowing from a friend or relative.
Unfortunately, most financial experts discourage the use payday loans because they have more than a few drawbacks — the most egregious being exorbitant interest rates as high as 500% (!) — which is why you should always be cautious before pulling the trigger.
The bottom line is that payday loans should only be used as a last resort. That being said, here are the benefits they provide in various circumstances:
You Can Apply At Your Convenience
You never know when an emergency expense may come — but most online payday lenders operate 24/7, which means you can apply anytime you want.
Unlike traditional loans, which usually involve several meetings with a loan officer, you can apply for a payday loan from the comfort of your home or office. You don’t have to stand in lines and book appointments with a lender. Everything is conducted online, and it can take as little as five minutes.
You Can Qualify Easily
Unlike traditional loans, payday loans have fewer requirements, and you don’t have to put up any collateral to qualify for a payday loan. However, you do need to have a stable source of income. As long as your income is verifiable and consistent, you’re most likely to get approved. Other requirements usually include a checking account and proof of permanent residency in your state.
You Can Get The Money Fast
It can take weeks to get the money you need with traditional loans since their application process and approval time are quite long. However, that’s not the case with payday loans. Because all transactions are processed online, you can be approved within minutes as long as you comply with the few requirements. Generally, you can get your cash on the same day or the following day with payday loans. Some payday lenders may even give you the funds within the hour after you get approved.
You Can Be Approved Even With Bad Credit
If you have bad credit, you will most likely be rejected by traditional lenders. But payday lenders give more importance to your ability to repay the loan than your credit score or rating. Thus, you can get approved for payday loans even with bad credit. However, it’s worth noting that you will incur a higher interest rate if you get approved, since you’re considered a risky borrower.With that in mind, if you can wait to improve your credit before taking out a payday loan, you should do so.
You Can Protect Your Credit Rating
If you apply for conventional loans, it can take many years to repay — and anything can happen during that period that may damage your credit rating. You may lose your source of income before you pay off your loan and may incur late payments or defaults. Since payday loans are short-term loans that you must pay within weeks, it’s harder to hurt your credit rating or score.
The Bottom Line
A payday loan offers a quick solution for any short-term financial emergencies. But like any other loan, it can take a toll on your finances if you don’t pay the borrowed amount on time. Regardless of the type of loans you get, you must honor your financial obligations to any lender.
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