DirectLendersList.com is a comprehensive comparison platform that makes your payday loan experience in California easier and better. With a handpicked selection of reputable direct lenders and loan marketplaces, our platform lets users quickly browse, compare, and apply for payday loans in California.
Our user-friendly interface ensures a simple and smooth process, allowing borrowers to navigate California payday loans confidently. Whether you need urgent financial help or want to explore short-term lending options, DirectLendersList.com is your trusted ally.
We value clarity, providing ample information on lenders, loan marketplaces, terms, and fees so you can make smart choices and well-informed decisions.
Your payday loan journey in California starts and finishes with DirectLendersList.com, where you can find convenience and transparency.
Advertising Disclosure
Our website is an informative comparison site committed to providing users with helpful information about various products and services that match their needs. Because of the advertising compensation we receive from brands and service providers, we can provide this service for free. Advertising income, product popularity, and our subjective experience and procedures may all impact the placement and position of brands on our site and its pages. It is important to remember that the brand overview is provided "as-is," with no guarantees or warranties, and should not be interpreted as an endorsement. We try to keep the information up-to-date, but the terms of offers may change at any time.
Disclaimer: Opinions, overviews, analyses, and recommendations are solely those of the author and haven't been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any insurance, loan, or credit card issuers.
Ace Cash Express functions as a direct lender, offering access to payday loans in California while holding a valid license issued by the Department of Business Oversight.
APR Range
Up to 459.90%*
Repayment Terms
14 and 30 days
Funding Time
As early as next business day*
To apply for an Ace Cash Express payday loan, you need to provide the following information:
⇒ Your full name
⇒ Your address
⇒ Your email address that is valid and active
⇒ Your phone number
⇒ Your Social Security Number or ITIN that is valid
⇒ Proof of a regular income source, such as a pay stub, a retirement pension, disability, self-employment income, or any other source of income.
⇒ Proof of an active bank account that has been open for at least one month.
• Company Name: – Ace Cash Express
• Loan Type: – Payday Loans Online
• State: – California
• Serviced As: – Direct Lender
• Minimum Amount: – $100
• Maximum Amount: – $255*
• Loan Term: – 14 and 30 days
• Funding Time: – As soon as the next working day*
• APR range: – Up to 459.90% ( Varies on the term)
• Fees: – Late payment and return payment fee may apply.
APR Range Example
A $200 loan with a $35.28 fee results in a total amount of $235.28, equating to an APR of 459.90% for a 14-day period.
Lend Swiftly is a lender connecting platform that connects borrowers with direct lenders, specializing in providing short-term payday loans in California. It simplifies the process of acquiring a loan by offering rapid financial assistance through a vast network of partner lenders.
APR Range
Varies*
Repayment Terms
Varies
Funding Time
Next business day*
⇒ Age Requirement: You must be 21 years of age or older.
⇒ Income Verification: Demonstrate a consistent and verifiable income.
⇒ Proof of Income: Submit recent pay stubs as evidence of your income.
⇒ Active Banking: Maintain an active banking account.
⇒ Photo Identification: Possess a government-issued photo ID.
⇒ Valid Email: Have a valid and active email address.
⇒ Phone Verification: Provide a valid phone number.
• Company Name: – Lend Swiftly
• Loan Type: – Short-Term Online Payday Loans
• State: – California
• Serviced As: – Lender Connecting Service
• Minimum Amount: – $100
• Maximum Amount: – $1,000
• Loan Term: – 10 to 90 days (Varies based on the lender and State Laws)
• Funding Time: – As early as the next business day* (Varies depending on the lender)
• APR range: – (APR) varies based on the duration and amount of the loan and will be disclosed upon approval by the lender.
• Fees: – Fees determined and disclosed by the lender and state laws.
Your lender or financial service provider will determine the loan term, fees, and interest rates.
CashAdvance.com operates as a lender connecting service, providing access to online cash advance loans in California through a wide network of direct lenders.
APR Range
Varies
Repayment Terms
Up to 31 days
Funding Time
As soon as next working day*
⇒ Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
⇒ Verifiable Income: Provide proof of a steady income.
⇒ Employment Duration: Employed for a minimum of 90 days.
⇒ Banking Requirement: Maintain an active checking account.
⇒ Verification Consent: Agree to employment verification.
⇒ Contact Information: Provide valid home and work telephone numbers.
⇒ Email Validation: Have a valid and active email address.
• Company Name: – CashAdvance.com
• Loan Type: – Cash Advance Online
• State: – California
• Serviced As: – Lender Connecting Service (Not a Direct Lender)
• Minimum Amount: – $50
• Maximum Amount: – $300
• Loan Term: – Up to 31 days
• Funding Time: – As quick as the next business day* (Varies by the lender)
• APR range: – Varies
• Fees: – Determined and disclosed by the lender upon approval.
Your lender or financial service provider will determine the loan term, fees, and interest rates.
Check Into Cash operates as a direct lender in California and offers access to online payday loans, holding a license from the Department of Business Oversight under the California Deferred Deposit Transaction Law.
APR Range
Up to 460.08%*
Repayment Terms
14 & 30 days
Funding Time
Next working day*
⇒ Social Security Number
⇒ Government-issued driver’s license or photo ID
⇒ Checking account number
⇒ Bank’s routing number (The nine-digit number at the bottom of your check)
⇒ Minimum age requirement: 21 years
⇒ Proof of Income (e.g., your most recent pay stub)
⇒ Valid phone number and email address
• Company Name: – Check Into Cash
• Loan Type: – Online Payday Loans
• State: – California
• Serviced As: – Direct State-Licensed Lender
• Minimum Amount: – $50
• Maximum Amount: – $255
• Loan Term: – 14 & 30 days
• Funding Time: – As quick as the next business day*
• APR range: – Up to 460.08%* (APR) may vary based on loan term and loan amount. APR range may change without notice based on the state laws.
• Fees: – NSF fee may apply on returned payment.
APR Range Example
A $255.00 loan with a $45 fee results in a total amount of $300, equating to an APR of 460.08% for a 14-day period.
California payday loans or cash advances offer a safe and convenient means to stretch your purchasing power and handle unexpected costs, whether you want to take care of seasonal expenses like holiday bills, school fees for your children, or unexpected repairs. California payday loans are designed to assist in such situations.
California payday loans are typically offered in smaller amounts and are short-term, making them ideal for covering unplanned expenses. However, it’s essential to note that they’re not intended for long-term use.
Numerous lending institutions in California provide payday loan services, both online and at physical storefronts. Many of these institutions have streamlined the process, making accessing the funds you need quick and straightforward. Whether you choose to borrow online or in-person, obtaining a payday loan is designed to be stress-free.
However, conducting due diligence is crucial before obtaining a payday cash advance. Ensure the lender is legally licensed to operate in California and understand their finance charges. Reading customer reviews can also provide valuable insights into the lender’s reputation and service quality. Taking these steps can help ensure a positive borrowing experience.
Applying for a short-term payday loan in California offers flexibility, as you can choose to apply online or visit a physical store location. With online applications, you can conveniently submit your information from anywhere as long as you can provide the necessary documents confirming your residency in California.
• Age: You must be 18 years old to apply for a payday loan in California.
• Income: You need to have a steady source of income, whether it’s from employment, benefits, or another source.
• Residency: You must be a resident of California to qualify for a payday loan in the state.
• Bank Account: Most payday lenders require you to have an active bank account in good standing.
• Identification: You’ll need to provide a valid government-issued ID to verify your identity.
• Contact Information: You’ll typically need to provide a valid phone number and email address.
• Credit Check: While some payday lenders may not perform a traditional credit check, they may still assess your creditworthiness through alternative means.
It’s important to note that these eligibility requirements vary slightly between lenders. So, check with individual lenders to ensure you meet their specific criteria before applying for a payday loan in California.
Payday loans typically range from $100 to $1,000, although this can vary from state to state. The eligibility requirements for obtaining a payday loan are generally less strict than those for traditional loan methods.
Upon receiving the cash, you’ll incur a fee for the loan. This finance charge and the initial borrowed sum are typically due on your next payday. Essentially, you must repay the borrowed amount plus the additional loan fee when you receive your subsequent paycheck.
In accordance with current laws governing payday loans in California, the maximum limit is $300. Licensed payday loan lenders in California are restricted from offering loans exceeding this amount. It’s essential to be aware of these regulations when considering a payday loan in California.
Yes, payday loans are legal in California, both online and in-store. California imposes strict regulations on payday lenders, mandating licensing and compliance with state laws. As a California resident, you can secure a payday loan of up to $300. These regulations protect borrowers from predatory practices and ensure fair lending practices across the state.
The regulatory framework governing payday loans in California includes the following key provisions:
• Maximum loan amount: $300
• Loan term: Up to 31 days
• Fee cap: Lenders can charge a maximum fee of 15% of the loan amount, capped at $45.
• Maximum APR: Payday loans carry a high APR, reaching up to 460% for a 14-day $100 loan.
• Rollovers: Prohibited to prevent borrowers from falling into a cycle of debt.
• Loan limitation: Borrowers are restricted to holding only one payday loan at any given time.
California Financial Code 23000 and California Civil Code 1789.30 provide the legal framework for regulating payday loans, while personal loans and other loan products are governed by California Financial Code 22000.
| Loan Amount | Finance Charge | Repayment | APR (14 days) |
|---|---|---|---|
$100 | $17.65 | $117.65 | 460.16% |
$200 | $35.29 | $235.29 | 460.03% |
$255 | $45 | $300 | 460.08% |
Under current laws, payday lending is permissible in California, regulated by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Deferred Deposit Transaction Law. All payday lenders, whether operating through physical storefronts or online platforms, must obtain a valid license from the Department of Business Oversight before conducting any payday loan transactions in the state. It is mandatory for lenders to prominently display copies of their licenses, fee schedules, and APR at all physical locations and on their websites.
Strict Limits on Fees
California law sets strict limits on payday loan charges to prevent consumers from being burdened by exorbitant fees. A maximum finance charge of 15% is imposed on the loan amount, capped at $45. Furthermore, borrowers are restricted to a maximum loan amount of $300. For instance, if a borrower is approved for a $300 advance, they would receive $255 after deducting the maximum 15% fee. Consequently, the borrower would issue a check for $300, payable on the agreed-upon repayment date. The repayment period for payday loans in California cannot extend beyond 31 days.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
California law prohibits payday lenders from issuing new loans to consumers with outstanding balances on existing loans or using new loans to pay off existing ones. Furthermore, rollovers on payday loans are not permitted.
Bounced Check Fees and Protections
If a repayment check bounces due to insufficient funds, the lender can charge a bounced check fee of up to $15. However, additional fees may be imposed by the bank for insufficient funds. It is important to note that payday lenders are prohibited from threatening borrowers with criminal proceedings for bounced checks.
Payment Plans and Transparency
Customers experiencing difficulty repaying their loans can request a payment plan from the lender. While the decision to grant or deny the request lies with the lender, they cannot charge additional fees if the payment plan is approved.
To ensure transparency, payday loan agreements must be provided to borrowers in the primary language used during the loan application process or in the language preferred by the borrower. This measure aims to facilitate a clear understanding of the terms and conditions associated with payday loans.
• Loans starting from $100 – $5,000
• Online network of lenders
• Quick online form takes under 5 minutes.
• Loans between $500 and $35,000
• Large lenders network
• Fast approval decision
Applying for a payday loan in California is a streamlined process that offers two convenient options: in-person visits to storefront locations or online applications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
• Research Lenders: Start by researching reputable payday lenders in California. Look for lenders licensed to operate in the state with positive customer reviews.
• Check Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria of the lenders you’re interested in. Typically, lenders require that you are at least 18 years old, have a steady income source, and provide proof of residency in California.
• Gather Required Documents: Before applying, gather the necessary documents, including a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport), income proof (such as pay stubs or bank statements), proof of residence, and your Social Security number.
• Choose Application Method: Decide whether you want to apply for the payday loan online or in-person at a storefront location. Many lenders offer both options for convenience. Recent research indicates that California ranks second with the highest number of payday lending stores, making it easy to find a nearby location.
• Complete Application: If applying online, visit the lender’s website and complete the online application form. Provide accurate information and double-check for any errors before submitting.
• Submit Documents: After completing the application, you may need to upload or email copies of your required documents. If you apply in person, carry these documents to the storefront location.
• Review Loan Terms: Once your application is submitted, carefully review the loan terms, including the loan amount, finance charges, repayment terms, and any other fees associated with the loan.
• Sign Agreement: If you agree to the terms, sign the loan agreement electronically if applying online or physically sign it if applying in person.
• Receive Funds: After signing the agreement, the lender will typically disburse the funds to you. If you apply online, the funds may be deposited directly into your bank account. If applying in person, you may receive cash or a check.
• Repay Loan: Repay the loan according to the agreed-upon terms, including interest and fees. To avoid late fees or penalties, ensure you have sufficient funds in your bank account on the repayment date.
Remember to borrow only what you can afford to repay and understand all terms and conditions before agreeing to a payday loan to avoid falling into a cycle of debt.
To determine if a payday lender in California is legitimate, you can follow these steps:
Check Licensing: Verify that the lender is licensed to operate in California. You can do this by visiting the California Department of Business Oversight website or calling their office. Licensed lenders must adhere to state regulations, which are designed to provide improved protection to consumers.
Research Reputation: Look for customer reviews and ratings of the lender online. Reputable lenders will have positive feedback from satisfied customers and minimal complaints filed against them with organizations like the Better Business Bureau.
Review Website: Legitimate lenders should have a transparent website displaying information on loan terms, fees, repayment options, and contact details. Be vigilant of lenders with unprofessional or unclear websites.
Verify Contact Information: Ensure the lender provides accurate contact information, including a physical address, phone number, and email address. Do not consider lenders who only provide a P.O. box or do not offer a direct phone number for customer support.
Read Terms and Conditions: Carefully review the loan terms and conditions before agreeing to anything. Legitimate lenders offer clear and comprehensive information about interest rates, fees, repayment schedules, and potential penalties for late payments.
Display of License and Fee Schedule: Legitimate payday lenders demonstrate their commitment to state regulations by publicly displaying their licenses and fees at every physical location and website. This level of transparency ensures that borrowers are fully informed about the costs associated with their loans.
Avoid Upfront Fees: Be cautious of lenders that require upfront fees or payments before disbursing the loan funds. Legitimate lenders typically deduct fees from the loan amount or include them in the repayment terms.
Verify Security: Verify that the lender’s website is safe and encrypted to safeguard your personal and financial information. Check for HTTPS in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar, which indicates a secure connection.
Seek Recommendations: For reliable payday lenders in California, ask trusted friends, family, or financial advisors for referrals. Personal recommendations can help safeguard against potential scams.
By following these steps and exercising caution, you can better assess the legitimacy of payday lenders in California and make informed decisions when borrowing money.
Filing a complaint against a payday lender in California involves several steps:
Gather Information:
Collect all relevant documentation related to your complaint, including loan agreements, correspondence with the lender, bank statements, and other evidence supporting your claim.
Contact the Lender:
Before filing a formal complaint, attempt to resolve the issue directly with the payday lender. Clearly outline your concerns and the resolution you are seeking. Keep records of all communication with the lender.
File a Complaint with the California Department of Business Oversight (DBO):
• Visit the DBO website and locate the complaint form specifically for payday lenders.
• Fill out the form with details about your complaint, including the lender’s name, loan details, and a description of the issue.
• Attach any supporting documentation, such as contracts or correspondence.
• Submit the complaint form electronically through the DBO’s website or by mail to the address provided.
File a Complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB):
• If your complaint relates to violations of federal consumer protection laws, you can file a complaint with the CFPB.
• Visit the CFPB website and fill out the complaint form, providing detailed information about the lender and the nature of your complaint.
• Submit the complaint online through the CFPB’s website.
Contact Legal Aid Organizations:
If you believe a California payday lender has violated your rights or engaged in unlawful practices, consider contacting legal aid organizations or consumer advocacy groups. They can provide legal advice and support in resolving your complaint.
Consult with an Attorney:
If your efforts to resolve the complaint are unsuccessful, consider seeking advice from a consumer protection attorney specializing in payday lending issues. They can evaluate your case and recommend the best course of action, including potential legal remedies.
Follow-up:
Keep track of any correspondence or communication related to your complaint. Follow up with the appropriate regulatory agencies or organizations to inquire about the status of your complaint and any actions taken.
By taking these steps and actively pursuing a resolution, you can effectively file a complaint against a payday lender in California for any grievances or violations of consumer rights.
Consumer Complaint
Financial Services Division
1515 K Street,
Suite 200 Sacramento CA 95814
Phone: (866) 275-2677
For registering complaints online. Click to submit complaint.
Most frequently asked questions about California payday loans
In California, payday loans are typically limited to $300. The amount you can borrow may vary depending on the lender and other factors.
You can apply for a payday loan in California in person at a store or online through a lender’s website. You will need to provide personal information, proof of income, and other documentation as part of the application process.
California law limits the maximum finance charge on payday loans to 15% of the loan amount, up to a maximum of $45. Additionally, lenders may charge other fees, such as NSF fees for bounced checks.
No, rollovers or extensions on payday loans are prohibited by California laws. Borrowers must repay the total amount of the loan, including any applicable fees, by the due date.
There are alternatives to payday loans in California, such as installment loans, personal loans, and credit union loans.
No, borrowers can not have more than one payday loan at a time under California law, as it aims to prevent borrowers from being trapped in a cycle of debt.
No, borrowers can use the funds from a California payday loan for any purpose. Typical uses include covering unexpected expenses, paying bills, or managing temporary financial gaps.
Defaulting on a payday loan in California can result in additional fees, collection attempts by the lender, and a negative impact on your credit score. It’s essential to communicate with the lender to explore potential options if you’re experiencing difficulty repaying the loan.
Complaints against payday lenders in California can be filed with the California Department of Business Oversight (DBO) or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
