You’ve run out of options yet again, and you’re unsure what to do. Is taking out a payday loan a quick method to get out of debt? Or is it a source of additional financial stress? What you should know is as follows.
People from many walks of life might find themselves in precarious situations these days. An unplanned auto repair occurs, but your last freelance invoice is not due until the end of the month. Alternatively, your ex-spouse cannot pay child support, and you urgently require winter clothes for your children.
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, you might also be seeking long-term solutions. Is it easy to get out of debt with payday loans? Here’s everything you should know about that option before you choose it.
What is the definition of a payday loan?
A payday loan, also known as a short-term or cash advance loan, is a sum of money that a private corporation will lend you for a limited period, usually until your next payday. These lenders offer loans that range from 30 to 50% of your net salary. When it comes to repaying a loan, there are usually two options:
You can provide the lender a postdated check for the whole amount of the loan plus all costs. If you do not repay the loan in person, the corporation will cash the check.
You can authorize the amount automatically deducted from your bank account on your next pay period.
Is it too much to pay?
Although a payday loan may seem appealing, keep in mind that it is an extremely expensive borrowing. Is it possible to get out of debt with payday loans? It’s really unlikely.
If you cannot return the borrowed money by the agreed-upon maturity date, you risk collecting even more debt.
Plus, even if you manage to pay off your debt, you’re still at risk of running out of money. It’s a vicious loop in which you may be forced to take out another payday loan, which begins the cycle again.
Consult a debt or credit counselor if you’re already in this scenario. With some sound guidance and practical techniques, you may soon be able to get out of debt for good.
Never sign a loan deal without first reading it.
Payday loans should only be selected as the last option. Never sign a contract without thoroughly reading it; else, the additional charges you agree to may come as a shock. They may include the following:
The cost of opening a file
Fees for administration
Fees for late payments
Fees for interest
These fees, in addition to the already-high interest rates imposed on payday loans, can quickly add up to a sum that is far more than you can afford.
Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared.
According to the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, A payday loan can equal borrowing at a rate of 450 to 650 percent! In other situations, even more.
Make sure you understand the whole amount you must repay before signing, and save a copy of the contract. Then, when the time comes, be prepared to repay it.
Alternative options
Have you considered the alternatives to payday loans if you believe they are the only way to get out of debt? Here are a few that are significantly less expensive.
Overdraft protection in your bank account allows you to overdraw at a considerably cheaper interest rate.
A personal line of credit can be utilized as needed and returned in monthly installments or whenever you have the funds.
A credit card cash advance carries a high-interest rate. However, the interest rate may be lower than a payday loan.