Despite Negative Press, Payday Loans Remain Beneficial to Many
There’s been a lot of talk about payday loans recently. States are cracking down, some are trying to put payday loan companies out of business. This leads to the question, what happens to the people who have no other alternative? Despite the high interest rates, there are borrowers who have no other choice and the payday loan can be what it takes to get through a rough spot.
Times When a Payday Loan Helps
You never know when an emergency will occur. At the drop of a dime, you could lose your job at the same time your rent is due. Your landlord refuses to budge on letting you pay him late, so you have a choice, take out the payday loan or go live on the streets. It’s an extremely tough decision to make, but many have been there and a payday loan can be the stepping stone one needs while they get a new job or sell items to cover the loan repayment.
Here’s another scenario. Your child becomes ill and needs an expensive medication. You have insurance, but even with the insurance coverage, that medication still costs a few hundred dollars. Your option is a payday loan or refusing medication and risking your child’s health. Which would you take?
One final situation that occurs frequently. You’re driving down the road and your car breaks down. The repair is going to cost a few hundred dollars, and you don’t have enough. Without your car, you cannot get to work. If you can’t get to work, you’re going to lose your job. If a payday loan helps you get your car back on the road and ensures you keep your job, that payday loan is going to be a godsend.
Borrow Responsibly and Only When You Have No Other Option
Payday loans do have incredibly high interest, there’s no question about that. The government is looking to crack down, but until they do, it’s in your best interest to make sure you’re borrowing responsibly. Before agreeing to a payday loan, car title loan, or other cash advance loan, talk to your bank, your employee, your friends, and your family. Make sure they cannot advance you the money until your next paycheck. Some churches will work with parishioners who need money, so there’s that option too.
If you do have no other alternative, borrow only as much as you need and pay it back on the due date. If you find you’re going to be short on cash, look at selling items like jewelry, small kitchen appliances, collectibles, etc. Use that money to pay back the loan. If you fail to pay back the money, your fees and interest skyrocket, so it’s critical to pay that money back as promised.
