Payday loans can seem like quick and easy access to cash when you’re facing an unexpected expense or short-term cash crunch. However, the ultra-high interest rates and short repayment terms can trap borrowers in a vicious cycle of debt. It’s not uncommon for people to take out multiple payday loans from different lenders simultaneously, leaving them juggling multiple triple-digit APR loans each month.
Consolidating several payday loans into one new loan with better terms can provide relief from this stressful debt trap. This comprehensive guide will explore common reasons for consolidation, different methods to consolidate, key factors to consider, and tips to avoid returning to the payday loan cycle after consolidating.
What Are Payday Loans and Why Are They Risky?
Before diving into consolidation options, it’s helpful to understand what payday loans are and why they can be so problematic.
Payday loans are a type of short-term unsecured personal loan, generally $500 or less. They are meant to provide cash flow between paychecks when unexpected expenses arise. These loans have very high interest rates, often 400% APR or higher.
The full loan balance, plus all fees, is usually due to be repaid in full on the borrower’s next pay date, often in two weeks or when “payday” arrives. This is where the name “payday loan” comes from. Sometimes longer 30-60 day terms are available.
Due to the astronomical interest rates and short repayment terms, it’s easy to fall into a trap of not being able to fully repay the loan. Borrowers are forced to continually renew the loan, or immediately take out a new loan to cover paying back the previous one. This leads to loan balances snowballing, with effective APRs often over 500% when all fees and compounding interest is considered.
Common Reasons to Consolidate Payday Loans
There are several compelling reasons why consolidating payday loans into a single new loan can be beneficial:
Lower Interest Rates – Combining multiple payday loans means you only need to pay one set of interest fees, rather than paying 400%+ APR on each individual loan. Even a personal loan or credit card at 20-30% interest can save substantially compared to multiple payday loans.
Simplify Repayments – Tracking and managing payments on multiple payday loans with different due dates is tedious and error-prone. A consolidation loan allows making a single monthly payment, which is easier to budget for.
Avoid Debt Spiral – By repaying all outstanding payday loans in full, the cycle of rolling over loans or reborrowing stops. This prevents balances from relentlessly growing over time at ultra-high interest rates.
Improve Credit – Getting caught in payday loan debt traps can wreck your credit if not repaid promptly. Consolidating shows financial maturity by tackling debt responsibly.
Peace of Mind – Finally breaking free from payday loan burden can relieve significant stress and anxiety. Consolidation leads to a more sustainable financial situation.
Overview of Payday Loan Consolidation Methods
Now that we’ve covered the rationale for consolidation, let’s explore some of the most common and effective methods to consolidate multiple payday loans. Each has its own pros, cons, eligibility criteria, and steps required.
Credit Counseling
Non-profit credit counseling organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) can provide assistance with consolidating debts through setting up debt management plans (DMPs). They work directly with creditors and lenders to negotiate lower interest rates and facilitate repayment. Counselors also help customize budgets for affordably meeting the DMP payment amount each month. If payday lenders refuse to lower interest rates within a DMP, the counselor can help arrange an affordable consolidation loan.
Pros: Free or low-cost service, tailored budget assistance, negotiate with lenders on your behalf
Cons: Credit score may drop initially when accounts enter DMP, limited negotiation success with payday lenders
Personal Loans
Unsecured personal loans are available from banks, credit unions, peer-to-peer lenders, and online consumer lenders. Loan amounts generally range from $1,000 – $50,000 with terms from 12-60 months. Interest rates vary based on credit score but commonly are 6% – 36%. The loan proceeds can be used to fully pay off and consolidate payday loans. Focus on lenders offering rates below 36% APR.
Pros: Predictable fixed monthly payments, typically lower rates than payday loans
Cons: Credit score impacts approval odds and interest rate, borrowing limits on loan amount
0% APR Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Balance transfer credit cards offer a 0% intro APR for an initial period, usually between 12-21 months. This option is best for those with existing credit card accounts in good standing. Make sure to pay off the transferred balance in full before the 0% rate expires to avoid deferred interest.
Pros: Pay no interest during the intro period; spreads repayment over many months
Cons: Deferred interest kicks in if balance not paid in full when intro rate ends; credit score impacts
Friends or Family
Asking a friend or family member for a consolidation loan removes reliance on expensive lenders. But approach carefully – spell out detailed repayment terms and timelines in writing to avoid misunderstandings. Offer a fair interest rate and stick to the agreed terms.
Pros: Interest savings compared to payday loans; flexible terms; low or no fees
Cons: Potential to strain relationships if not handled properly; may still carry interest
Payday Loan Consolidation Companies
There are specialized companies and lenders that market directly to customers with multiple payday loans to consolidate them. Research thoroughly, as some charge very high fees or interest rates that leave borrowers no better off. Confirm licensed operations and fair loan terms before proceeding.
Pros: Specifically target payday loan consolidation; streamlined process
Cons: May have very high rates/fees; risky to use an unlicensed or unethical lender
Payday Loan Consolidation Tips & Warnings
If you’ve determined that consolidation makes sense for your situation, keep these important tips in mind to ensure it goes smoothly:
- Review the consolidation loan terms very carefully and make sure the monthly payment fits your budget. Don’t take on more debt than you can truly afford.
- Be cautious of lenders charging upfront fees just to consolidate payday loans or access the loan proceeds. Legitimate lenders often have no fees.
- Calculate the total interest paid over the life of the consolidation loan and aim for significant savings over just keeping the original payday loans.
- Avoid offers that seem too good to be true or make outlandish claims of guaranteed approval or ultra-fast funding. These are red flags for scams.
- Do not consolidate payday loans with other new high interest rate loans like auto title loans or installment loans. This will just worsen your situation.
- Make payments on time each month and pay extra when possible to pay off the consolidation loan early. Don’t get caught in another debt trap.
- Address what led to the payday loan reliance originally and make changes to prevent ending up in the same situation again down the road.
Payday Loan Consolidation FAQs
Let’s review answers to some frequently asked questions about consolidating payday loans:
Does consolidating payday loans hurt your credit?
It may have a small negative impact initially if new credit inquiries are required to obtain the consolidation loan. But it will help in the long run by replacing multiple payday loans with on-time installment loan payments.
Where can I get a payday loan consolidation loan guaranteed approval?
There are no guaranteed approvals, but bad credit lenders are more likely to approve those with poor credit. Be very cautious of lenders promising guaranteed approvals. Review fees and rates carefully for any loan before accepting.
Should I use a debt settlement company to consolidate payday loans?
Debt settlement is risky for payday loans. The lender can still seek repayment even if the debt settler negotiates lower payoffs. Savvy borrowers are better off handling consolidation discussions directly with the lender where possible.
What if I can’t afford the monthly payments on a consolidation loan?
Contact the lender immediately for assistance if the consolidated loan payment becomes unaffordable. They may offer hardship programs or loan modifications. If not, contact a credit counseling agency for advice and help communicating with your lender.
Will a consolidation loan stop payday lenders from calling me?
Yes, once you accept a consolidation loan and the lender sends payment to your payday lenders, this satisfies the debts in full. Make sure to get written confirmation from the payday lenders that your balance is paid off and the account is closed.
Final Tips to Avoid Returning to Payday Loans
The key objective after consolidating payday loans should be breaking the reliance on them going forward. Here are some top tips to avoid ending up in another debt trap:
- Build an emergency fund with 3-6 months of living expenses so you don’t need to turn to payday loans for unexpected expenses going forward. Save a portion of each paycheck until you have a healthy emergency savings balance.
- Closely monitor your monthly budget and cut discretionary expenses where possible to free up more cash flow and prevent shortfalls.
- Explore lower cost alternatives like local credit union loans or borrowing from family rather than immediately taking out a new payday loan when money is tight.
- Request payroll advances from your employer if allowed. Even though fees may apply, they are likely less than a payday loan.
- Ask for due date extensions or make minimum payments on bills if you are waiting for a paycheck. This can help avoid new payday loans.
- Set up text or email reminders for bill due dates to avoid late fees that can force borrowing. Automate payments where possible.
- Learn to recognize predatory lending practices and lender red flags. Seek financial guidance if you are unsure about a lending offer or feel pressure to accept quickly.
- Review your credit reports regularly and dispute any errors or outdated payday loan accounts. Maintaining good credit increases future borrowing options if needed.
- Consider setting up wage deductions directly into savings accounts to help build reserves and improve financial habits. Even small auto-deposits help over time.
Consolidating payday loans provides temporary relief, but cultivating financial discipline and wise money management is key to avoiding this debt trap permanently. Seek help from reputable credit counseling agencies if you continue struggling with payday loan reliance after consolidating.