Key takeaways
- Louisiana payday advances give borrowers quick access to funds but come with high fees and short repayment terms.
- Always compare potential payday loans and lenders to find the best option for you.
- Explore alternatives like cash advance apps, credit union loans, or credit card advances before you borrow.
Online payday loans in Louisiana offer a quick fix when you need emergency cash. They are easy to qualify for, since most lenders only require an active checking account and ID. You don’t have to worry about your credit; you only have a steady paycheck.
Whether you’re in New Orleans or Baton Rouge, online payday loans can provide financial relief when you need money now, but they come with risks.
Read on to learn about payday advances and what to watch out for.
What are online payday loans in Louisiana?
Online payday loans in Louisiana are short-term loans for small amounts that you can apply for and receive online without a credit check. Lenders are only interested in your income.
When you apply for the loan, you will have to provide a personal check or sign an agreement to have the money automatically withdrawn from your bank account on a set date. The repayment date is typically your next payday, usually 14 days after accepting the funds.
Small payday loans online no credit check can be expensive due to high interest rates and fees. The short repayment term can make it challenging to repay the money on time, potentially leading to a cycle of debt.
Top loan choices
When looking for the top online payday lenders, you’ll typically encounter two options: direct lenders and online lending platforms.
Direct lender
With a direct lender, you work with one company from start to finish. They may fund the loan faster since they handle the entire process themselves. You don’t have to worry about sharing your personal information with other parties.
Many direct lenders operate online, making the entire process convenient and accessible.
Need to cover a bigger expense?
Online lending platforms
Online lending platforms allow you to submit one application and be approved by multiple lenders without going to multiple physical locations. You then compare payday advance offers to find the best one for you.
When you use a lending platform, it is important to research the lenders you are matched with. Payday lenders are notorious for predatory practices. Read reviews and verify that the lender is licensed to operate in Louisiana before accepting an offer.
Payday loan regulations in Louisiana
Payday loans for Louisiana residents are regulated by state laws.
Maximum loan amount | $350 |
Minimum loan term | N/A |
Maximum loan term | 30 days |
Finance charge | $20 for every $100 borrowed, fees cannot exceed $55 when you borrow $220-$350 |
Documentation fee | $10 |
Nonsufficient funds fee | $25 |
Rollovers | None, unless the borrower pays 25% of the advance plus fees |
Number of loans | Any |
How to apply for payday loans in Louisiana
Select a lender
The first step is to find a payday lender licensed to operate in Louisiana. Check with the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions (OFI) or ask the lender. A legitimate lender will be able to provide evidence of their state registration and licensing, such as a license number.
Read reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot to get a sense of other customers’ experiences.
Look at their fee structure to check that you can afford the loan. While all payday loans are expensive, you may be able to find a lender with slightly lower costs.
Gather your documents
You do not need much to apply for a payday loan, but having everything ready ahead of time will speed up the process. Lenders require a government-issued ID (driver’s license or state-issued ID) to confirm your identity and age. You will need to provide proof of income, such as a recent pay stub, bank statement, or W-2, and bank account information. The lender will need to verify that you live in Louisiana. Bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or other bills showing your address. Lastly, you must put down your Social Security Number and phone number.
Apply for the loan
Fill out the form accurately and wait for the decision. Many lenders offer instant decisions since they do not consider your credit score. If approved, you can receive cash on the same day.
If you have any questions, contact your lender.
A little short this month?
Alternatives to online payday loans for bad credit in Louisiana
Borrowers with bad credit are not limited to cash advances from payday lenders. Other options can often be less expensive and just as easy to get, even if they do look at your score.
Cash advance apps
New cash advance apps let you borrow small amounts of money and repay it with your next paycheck. There is no credit check, no interest, and few fees. The app may request a tip, ask for a flat fee, or a monthly subscription.
The application process is simple. You link your checking account, and the app reviews your banking activity and direct deposit history to determine how much to lend you. If you need the money instantly, you can pay a small fee; otherwise, the funds will be in your account for free within three business days.
Credit union loans
Credit unions are member-owned financial organizations that provide affordable products and services to members. They often have more lenient requirements and may accept borrowers with bad credit.
Some federal credit unions offer payday alternative loans with interest rates capped at 28% APR. These loans are specifically for members with poor scores and approval relies more on your income than credit.
State-chartered credit unions provide personal loans with interest rates capped at 18% APR, though these loans have stricter requirements.
Many credit unions offer credit-builder loans. With these loans, the lender holds the funds, and you repay the money in monthly installments. The lender reports your payments to the credit bureaus, which helps you establish a positive payment history. Once you pay off the loan, you will receive the funds and a higher credit score.
Credit card cash advance
Chances are, you can use the credit card you already have in your wallet to take out a cash advance. Go to an ATM or bank teller and withdraw cash up to a set credit limit.
Understanding how to get cash from a credit card can help in emergencies, but use it cautiously. These advances are fast but far from free. Your provider will charge a fee of 3% to 5% of the amount withdrawn or $10, whichever is greater. The ATM may charge an out-of-network fee. You will have to pay interest immediately at a higher rate than for regular purchases.
Borrow from loved ones
Friends or family may be able to lend you money with little to no fees and flexible terms. Put down how and when you will repay the loan, as well as any interest, in writing. Then, pay the money back as agreed to avoid strains on the relationship.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I get a payday loan in Louisiana with no collateral?
Yes, you can get a payday loan without collateral. Payday loans are considered unsecured debts. You do not have to put up an asset like your car or house to secure the loan. Approval depends instead on your paycheck.
2. What are the risks associated with payday loans for bad credit?
The risk with payday loans is falling into a cycle of debt. Payday loans have high fees, usually equivalent to over 400% APR, whereas 36% is considered the highest affordable APR. Lenders require a balloon payment of both the loan amount and fees, only 14 days after the loan is issued. 80% of borrowers are unable to pay. In Louisiana, the lender can charge you an insufficient funds fee if your check bounces, fees for a new loan, and interest on the loan you did not repay. They can also take legal action to recover their money.
3. Can you have more than one payday loan in Louisiana?
You can take out more than one payday loan at a time in Louisiana. While you can have more than one, it is not a good idea. Always pay off your loan before borrowing again.
Bottom line
Payday loans can help you out in a pinch, but are costly. According to the Center for Responsible Lending, a $400 payday loan repaid in full within 14 days has an average APR of 410% in Louisiana. While helpful for emergency cash, they are not a long-term solution.
Before you turn to payday lending, consider alternatives. Look into lower-cost cash advance apps, borrowing from friends and family, or your local credit union. You can find less expensive loans, even if your credit is less than perfect.