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A complete breakdown of all data points across the products in this comparison to help you make the right decision.
See how rates compare across all providers. The bars show the range between lowest and highest rates offered by each company.
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Are you in a financial pinch and considering an online payday loan in Louisiana?
Before applying, ask yourself if you should get a payday loan at all. Exploring all your options could save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of headaches.
But if you do decide on a payday loan, I get it. Unexpected expenses can hit hard. Let's take a look at the top online payday loan providers in Louisiana.
The truth is all direct payday lenders in Louisiana will charge you the same amount to borrow. They're all trying to maximize their profits up to the state's legal limits.
Because of this, it doesn't really matter which payday lender you choose. You'll end up paying the same high fees regardless.
With that in mind, how should you decide between the different payday lenders?
Location: If you need cash immediately, choose the lender closest to you and apply in person.
Instant funding on weekends: ACE Cash Express is the only lender that offers the potential for instant funding on weekends. Subject to approval and before 2 PM CT.
Credit checks: If you want to avoid having your Equifax or TransUnion credit reports pulled, avoid Speedy Cash.
Online application process: Advance America is known for having the best online application experience.
Online direct lending: Check City is a licensed online direct lender in Louisiana with a streamlined digital process.
Loan Amount: If you need to borrow the maximum $350, Advance America and Speedy Cash both offer it.
After all our research, Advance America did emerge as the overall frontrunner.
Speed and Convenience: Same-day funding available online or at any of their 26 Louisiana locations. When you're in a financial pinch, this quick turnaround can be a lifesaver.
Flexibility: The option to apply online and pick up money in-store offers the best of both worlds - digital ease with the security of a physical location.
Inclusive Lending: They consider applicants with all credit levels, making financial assistance accessible to those who might be turned away elsewhere.
User-Friendly Management: Their paperless, online account management system streamlines the borrowing process from application to repayment.
Established Reputation: Operating in Louisiana since 1998 with thousands of 5-star reviews speaks volumes about their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Instant Decisions: No long waits or uncertainty - you'll know right away if you're approved, allowing you to plan your next steps quickly.
But remember, even with the best payday lender, you're still dealing with high-cost, short-term loans.
Now, I know some of you might be looking for a larger loan amount or longer repayment terms. If that's the case, let me introduce you to a non-payday lender that's worth your attention: LoansUnder36.
LoansUnder36 isn't a direct lender, but a marketplace that connects borrowers with multiple lenders offering personal loans. Here's why they might be a better fit for some of you:
Lower Interest Rates: As the name suggests, all loans have APRs under 36% - significantly lower than payday loans.
Larger Loan Amounts: You can borrow between $500 and $35,000, depending on your qualifications.
Longer Repayment Terms: Instead of two weeks, you get 6 to 72 months to repay, making monthly payments more manageable.
Soft Credit Pull: They use a soft credit check that won't impact your credit score to show you potential offers.
Multiple Lender Comparison: You can compare offers from various lenders in one place, potentially saving you time and money.
You're looking for more than $350 (Louisiana's payday loan limit)
You need more than two weeks to repay your loan
You have fair to good credit and can qualify for better rates
You want to avoid the high costs associated with payday loans
Remember, while LoansUnder36 offers more attractive terms than payday loans, it's still a loan that needs to be repaid. Before you apply I suggest you continue reading...
Here's my honest take: Payday loans can be a last-resort option for true financial emergencies.
If you need money for an essential expense and have exhausted all other options, a payday loan might help you avoid even worse consequences (like eviction or utility shut-off).
But - and this is a big but - they should never be used for non-essential expenses or as a regular financial tool. The costs are just too high.
In Louisiana, payday lenders can charge up to 16.75% of the face value of your check, plus a $10 document fee. That doesn't sound too bad, right?
Wrong.
Let me break it down for you:
| Loan Amount | Maximum Fee | Document Fee | Total to Repay | Equivalent APR (14 days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | $16.75 | $10 | $126.75 | 697% |
| $200 | $33.50 | $10 | $243.50 | 567% |
| $300 | $45.00* | $10 | $355.00 | 478% |
| $350 (max) | $45.00* | $10 | $405.00 | 410% |
Yes, you read that right. The equivalent Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for a typical two-week loan ranges from about 410% to 697%, depending on the loan amount.
*For loans between $220 and $350, Louisiana law caps the total fee at $55 ($45 maximum lender fee plus a $10 documentation fee), regardless of the percentage calculation.
To put that in perspective, the average credit card APR sits around 21% to 24%.
Payday loans aren't just expensive - they can be downright dangerous if you're not careful.
The Debt Trap: Did you know that 4 out of 5 payday loans are rolled over or renewed within 14 days? That's right - 80% of borrowers can't pay back their loan on time. And here's the kicker: each rollover means more fees, digging you deeper into debt.
Sky-High Interest Rates: We've talked about the 400+% APR, but let's put that in perspective. If you borrow $300, you could end up paying over $1,000 in fees and interest over just a few months if you keep rolling over the loan.
Aggressive Collection Practices: Some lenders can get pretty intense if you can't pay. We're talking constant calls, emails, and in some cases, even threats of legal action.
Impact on Your Credit: While taking out a payday loan doesn't directly affect your credit score, failing to pay it back can lead to collections, which definitely will hurt your credit.
Pause: Before you apply for a payday loan, take a deep breath. Ask yourself: "Is this truly my only option?"
Consider alternatives: There are other options that could save you money and stress. LoansUnder36 and similar personal loan marketplaces offer longer terms and much lower rates.
Borrow mindfully: If you do take a payday loan, borrow only what you can pay back with your next paycheck. Not what you want, not what they offer. Just what you need.
Plan your exit: Before you sign anything, know exactly how you'll pay it back. Write it down. Make it real.
Know your rights: In Louisiana, lenders can't charge more than $55 in total fees on loans of $220 to $350, and rollovers are prohibited. If someone tries to offer you different terms, walk away.
Okay, if you've weighed the costs and still decide a payday loan is your best option, here's what you need to know:
Proof of Identity: A valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport). Must be at least 18 years old.
Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs (usually from the last 30 days). For self-employed: tax returns or 1099 forms may be required.
Active Bank Account: Checking account details (account number and routing number). The account should be in your name.
Contact Information: Current phone number, valid email address, and physical address (P.O. boxes are typically not accepted).
Social Security Number: For identity verification purposes.
Choose your lender
We recommend Advance America for their easy online application process and same-day funding options. To apply with Advance America:
Click here to begin their application process Follow the prompts to complete your application
Alternatively, if one of the other lenders we mentioned earlier (such as ACE Cash Express, Check City, or Speedy Cash) has a physical location near you, you can always apply in person. This option also typically offers same-day funding. In-store applications can be convenient if you:
Prefer face-to-face interactions Have questions you'd like answered in person Want to receive your funds immediately in cash
Complete the Application
Online: Usually takes 10-15 minutes In-person: Might take 30 minutes to an hour
Be honest and accurate. Lenders cross-check information, and discrepancies can lead to automatic rejection.
Review the loan agreement
This is crucial! Don't skip the fine print. Heres what to look for:
Fee structure: Should not exceed 16.75% of the check's face value and a $10 document fee Repayment date: Mark this on your calendar immediately
If anything is unclear, ask questions. Reputable lenders should be willing to explain every detail.
Wait for approval
Online: Often instant or within a few hours In-person: Usually on the spot What affects approval?: Income, existing debts, past payday loan history
A quick approval doesn't mean this is a good financial move. Take a moment to reconsider if this is truly your best option.
Get your cash
Online with Advance America: Same-day ACH transfer possible if approved early In-store: Immediate cash or check
Faster funding might come with additional fees. Always ask if there's a charge for expedited transfer.
Preparing for Repayment
Due date: Typically your next payday, maximum 30 days in Louisiana Repayment methods: Automatic withdrawal (most common), In-person cash payment, or Online transfer.
Set up alerts several days before the due date. Ensure your account has sufficient funds to avoid overdraft fees on top of loan fees.
Before you borrow, here's a quick summary of what Louisiana law says about payday loans. Knowing these rules can protect you from unlicensed lenders who might try to charge you more than what's legally allowed.
| Rule | Louisiana Law |
|---|---|
| Maximum Loan Amount | $350 |
| Maximum Loan Term | 30 days |
| Maximum Fee | 16.75% of check face value + $10 documentation fee |
| Fee Cap ($220-$350) | Total fees cannot exceed $55 |
| Rollovers | Not allowed |
| Refinancing | Allowed after paying fees + 25% of principal |
| Extended Payment Plan | Available once per 12-month period |
| NSF Fee | $25 plus bank processing fees |
| Late Fee | 36% per year for first year, 18% per year after |
| Regulatory Body | Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions |
How much can I borrow with a payday loan in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, you can borrow up to $350 with a payday loan. The loan term can be up to 30 days. But remember, just because you can borrow the maximum doesn't mean you should. Only borrow what you absolutely need.
How quickly can I get the money?Many online lenders offer same-day or next-day funding if you're approved. Apply early in the day for the best chance at same-day funding. In-store applications can sometimes get you cash within the hour.
Can I get a payday loan with bad credit?Generally, yes. Most payday lenders don't do a hard credit check. They're more interested in your income and ability to repay. But be cautious. This easy access comes at a steep cost, with equivalent APRs ranging from 410% to 697% depending on your loan amount.
What happens if I can't repay my payday loan on time?This is where things can get tricky. In Louisiana, lenders can't roll over loans, but they may offer an extended payment plan once within a 12-month period. If you still can't pay, the lender may charge you 36% per year for the first year past the due date, plus a $25 NSF fee if your check bounces. Always communicate with your lender if you're struggling to repay.
Are online payday loans safe?If you're dealing with a licensed lender, the transaction itself should be secure. You can verify a lender's license through the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions at ofi.la.gov. But remember, "safe" doesn't mean "good for your financial health." Always borrow responsibly.
How can I borrow $500 in Louisiana?Louisiana payday loans are capped at $350, so you can't borrow $500 through a single payday loan. For larger amounts, consider a personal loan through a marketplace like LoansUnder36, which connects you with lenders offering $500 to $35,000 with APRs under 36% and repayment terms of 6 to 72 months.
Louisiana offers various resources to help borrowers navigate financial challenges and seek assistance when needed.
These organizations can provide guidance, handle complaints, and offer support services. Here are some valuable resources available to Louisiana residents:
Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions: Regulates payday lenders and handles complaints. Website: ofi.la.gov Phone: (888) 525-9414
Louisiana Attorney General's Office: Provides consumer protection services. Website: ag.state.la.us Consumer Protection Hotline: (800) 351-4889
Credit Counseling Services: For free or low-cost financial advice. National Foundation for Credit Counseling: nfcc.org
Louisiana 211: Connects residents with local resources for financial assistance. Dial 211 or visit louisiana211.org
Remember, if you believe a lender has violated Louisiana payday loan laws, you have the right to file a complaint with the Office of Financial Institutions.
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