Loan Alternatives Other Than Payday Loans

Using payday loans is a good way to overcome any shortfall in your finances between pay checks. The application process is simple and the money can be in your bank account within 24 hours, making them an ideal way to meet unexpected bills or expenses. However, they are designed only for short-term borrowing needs and can be expensive if you fail to repay them on the agreed date.

So are there any other alternatives that we could consider?

Over drafts would seem like the most obvious choice if you find yourself short of funds. However, banks are not always willing to extend overdraft terms especially if you have been in your overdraft recently or are consistently overdrawn. As well as this using an overdraft on a regular basis can be expensive as banks tend to apply fees and charges to its overdraft facilities, these could make an overdraft a more expensive alternative to payday loans.

Personal loans through your bank or other lender generally do not meet the needs of those looking to borrow short-term and a small sum. Loans are usually for a minimum of $1000 and over a longer term than a payday loan. And whilst the interest rates are much, much lower, the actual cost to you over the term of the loan can be more than borrowing through these loan system.

Another obstacle to using a personal loan could be your credit rating. A less than perfect credit rating is often declined, particularly in these tough economic times. The application process for personal loans is also complicated and lengthy, with requirements to produce documents such as statements, pay slips and I.D.

Credit cards could be the best solution if you did not want to borrow with these loans. Interest rates are much lower and you can repay over a term to suit you providing you meet a minimum repayment each month. This can be an expensive way to borrow though if you don't repay the full balance on the card each month. A good solution would be to apply for a 0% card which will not cost you any more in interest charges.

Payday loans have grown in popularity in recent years because they have been made available to everyone who has a regular income. To be eligible for these loans you need to be over 18 years of age,have a regular income and a valid bank account. Another factor in their popularity is the lack of credit check which makes them available to anyone no matter what their credit history is.

Personal loans and credit cards are often dependent on having a good credit record to be accepted which means a large number of applicants are declined. The lack of other sources of credit has been a major factor in the growth of the payday loan industry.

Now, before anyone else decide to get these loan, check out first some other alternatives other than payday loans. These things are very crucial and must be taken into consideration. We should consider certain preliminary precautions before going into any loans.