Short-term loans, like title loans and payday loans, offer quick cash when you need it most. However, understanding the differences between these two options is crucial to figure out which type of loan is best for you.
Despite their high costs, about 12 million Americans use payday loans each year. Followed by nearly 2 million Americans taking out title loans according to Pew Research on Title Loans.
Key Takeaways
- Title loans are secured loans using your car’s title as collateral, offering higher loan amounts but risking vehicle loss.
- Payday loans are unsecured loans, tied to your next paycheck, with smaller amounts but often leading to a debt cycle.
- Both title loans and payday loans have significant risks and should be carefully considered before borrowing, making informed choices is always the best choice.4
Which Loan Is Right for You?
When to Consider a Title Loan
A title loan may be appropriate if you need a larger amount of money and have a valuable vehicle to use as collateral. However, this option is risky if you’re unsure about your ability to repay the loan quickly, as it could lead to losing your car.4
When to Consider a Payday Loan
A payday loan might be a better option for covering small, urgent expenses that you can repay with your next paycheck. These loans are easy to obtain but come with high costs. Consider this option only if you’re confident in your ability to repay the loan on time.
What Is a Title Loan?
A title loan is a secured loan where your vehicle’s title serves as collateral. Car title loans allow you to borrow up to $50,000 based on the value of your car, with the lender holding your title until the loan is repaid.
Car title loans can be helpful to people with poor credit scores as they work off of your ability to repay the loan and the value of your car rather than just your creditworthiness.1
How Title Loans Work
In a title loan, the lender places a lien on your vehicle’s title, allowing you to continue using your car while the loan is active. You make monthly payments until the loan balance is paid off and then the title loan lender signs the title back into your name. If you fail to repay the loan, title loan lenders have the right to repossess your vehicle to recover the loan amount.4
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a car title loan, you generally need:
- A clear vehicle title in your name
- Proof of identity
- Proof of income
Loan Amount and Terms
Car title loans usually offer amounts ranging from 25% to 50% of your car’s value. Interest rates are high, sometimes reaching triple digits, with repayment terms typically between one month to a couple years.
Risks and Considerations
The primary risk of a car title loan is losing your vehicle. If you can’t repay the title loan, your car could be repossessed. Additionally, failing to meet repayment terms may negatively impact your credit score.
Lender tip: Before committing to a title loan, it’s wise to understand the potential costs and repayment terms. Use our Title Loan Calculator to get an estimate of how much you could borrow, what your monthly payments might be, and the total cost of the loan.
This tool can help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re prepared to meet the repayment terms.
What Is a Payday Loan?
A payday loan is a short-term, unsecured loan designed to cover urgent expenses until your next payday. Payday loans are usually easy to obtain but can come with high fees and interest rates.
These loans are often marketed as quick fixes for financial emergencies, but they can lead to a cycle of debt if not repaid promptly. Payday loans are known for their generally unfavorable loan terms. It’s important to understand the full cost before borrowing.
How Payday Loans Work
When you take out a payday loan, you agree to repay it on your next payday, often within two weeks. Payday lenders may require a postdated check or authorization to withdraw the funds directly from your bank account.
Eligibility Requirements
Payday loans are accessible to most people and typically require:
- A steady source of income.
- A valid bank account.
- Proof of identity.
Loan Amount and Terms
Payday loans generally offer smaller amounts, ranging from $100 to $1,000. The interest rates are extremely high, with annual percentage rates (APRs) often exceeding 400%. Repayment is usually due within two weeks.
Risks and Considerations
Payday loans can lead to a debt cycle due to their high fees and short repayment terms. If you can’t repay the loan on time, you may end up borrowing more to cover the debt, leading to additional fees and financial strain.
Key Differences Title Loan vs Payday Loan
Payday and title loans have key differences that can help you choose which loan is right for you.
| Feature | Title Loans | Payday Loans |
| Collateral Requirements | Requires a vehicle as collateral | No collateral required |
| Credit Criteria | Bad credit usually accepted 1 | Usually no credit check |
| Loan Amounts | Higher loan amounts$100-$50,000 (25-50% of vehicle value) | Lower loan amounts $100 – $1,000 |
| Interest Rates and Fees | High interest rates (often triple digits) | Very high fees (APRs over 400%) |
| Repayment Terms | Short terms usually a couple months to a couple years | Very short terms usually due on next payday |
| Risk of Asset Loss | Risk of losing your vehicle | Risk of debt cycling |
Alternatives Payday Loans and Title Loans
Before opting for a title or payday loan, explore other financial options:
- Personal loans: These often come with lower interest rates and more extended repayment periods.
- Credit cards: If you have a credit card with available credit, using it might be less expensive.
- Borrowing from friends or family: This can help you avoid high fees and interest, but may affect your relationships if unpaid.
Final Thoughts
Title loans and payday loans both offer quick cash, but they cater to different needs. Car title loans provide larger amounts with the risk of losing your vehicle, while payday loans are smaller and easier to get but can trap you in a cycle of debt.4
Both types of loans come with significant risks, so it’s essential to understand the terms before committing. Always consider your ability to repay the loan and explore alternative options. Making an informed decision can protect you from severe financial consequences.
If you are interested in getting an obligation free estimate for a title loan fill out our online application!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between a Title Loan and Personal Loan?
A car title loan is a type of secured personal loan that uses your vehicle as collateral. Many other personal loan options do not require collateral and usually offer lower interest rates depending on factors like the borrower’s credit score.
What is Another Name for Title Loan?
A title loan is also known as a car title loan, pink slip loan, auto equity loan or auto title loan.
How Do I Get Out of a Title Loan Without Destroying My Credit?
In order to get out of a title loan without destroying your credit one should continue making monthly payments on time. Consider talking to their lender and see what their options are.
If you have extra funds you may be able to pay off the loan in one lump-sum payment. If not there are other options such as title loan buyout or refinancing which could help lower the monthly payments and/or the loan terms.
Who Uses Title Loans the Most?
Car title loans are commonly used by individuals with poor credit who need quick cash and may have difficulty qualifying for traditional loans. These borrowers often turn to title loans because of their fast approval process and minimal requirements.2
Written by
Crystal Voogd
